Part 9
Photos that sell
Clear photos of a clean part on a plain background, with every label readable, sell parts and prevent returns. eBay allows up to 24 photos per listing, so use them.
eBay photo rules (eBay photo help)
- Up to 24 photos; at least 500 × 500 pixels, about 1600 × 1600 recommended; 12 MB max each.
- No watermarks, logos, borders or text overlays; they hurt search placement.
- No stock or catalog photos for used items. Photograph the actual part.
Setup on a budget (Underpriced guide)
| Item | Cost | Use |
|---|---|---|
| White foam board | $3–5 | Backdrop for small parts |
| Seamless paper sweep (curved up the wall) | $25–40 | Larger parts like lights and seats |
| Light box/tent | $25–150 | Sensors, switches, modules |
| Daylight bulbs, 5000–5500K | $15–40 | Even light; don't mix with window light |
| Phone tripod | $15–25 | Sharp, consistent shots |
Phone tips: turn on the grid, tap to focus, slide exposure down if white looks blown out, move closer instead of zooming, and turn off the flash.
Shot list for a part
- Hero shot: the whole clean part, facing the camera, on white. This is your search thumbnail.
- Back and each side.
- Every label, part number and barcode, sharp and readable.
- Connectors and pins, straight on.
- Mounting tabs and bolt holes.
- Every flaw, twice: a close-up and a wider shot showing where it is.
- Scale reference (ruler or coin) for small parts.
- Proof of function: the radio powered on, the light lit, the cluster showing mileage.
- Your stock number mark on the part (this protects you from return swaps; see Part 13).
Photograph parts off the car. On-car photos make buyers think they're getting the whole assembly (Car-Part.com eBay best practices).
General education, not legal or tax advice. Fees, carrier rates and rules change; check the linked sources before you rely on a number.