On Amazon the main image is the first thing a shopper sees in search results, and it's also the image with the strictest rules. This guide lines up the Amazon image requirements for 2026, background, framing, sizes, formats, what changes for secondary images and what to know if you use AI-made images.
The main image: the basic rules
The main image is the listing's primary image, the one shown in search results. The rules exist to make results comparable: every product on white, clearly visible, with no distracting graphics.
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Background | Pure white, RGB 255,255,255 |
| Framing | The product fills about 85% of the image |
| Content | Only the product sold |
| Not allowed | Text, added logos, watermarks, badges, borders |
| Resolution | At least 1000 px on the longest side for zoom; 1600+ recommended; max 10,000 |
| Formats | JPEG, PNG, TIFF, non-animated GIF |
Watch the white: many studio setups produce backgrounds that look white on screen but have values like #F5F5F5 or #EBEBEB. The automated check flags them, so verify the background by its colour value, not by eye (Sellhound source).
Secondary images: where the selling happens
The images after the main one have more freedom: they can include settings, people, text and graphics. This is where the listing answers the shopper's questions.
- Lifestyle and in-use. The product where it's used: the kitchen, the desk, the bathroom, the person wearing it.
- Infographics. Dimensions, materials, benefits, compatibility. They must be readable on a phone.
- Details. Texture, fastenings, ports, finishes.
- Box contents. Everything the customer receives, and nothing more.
- Comparisons and variants. Colours, sizes, formats.
Registered brands can add A+ Content modules in the description, plus product videos.
"The main image sells the click. The secondary images sell the product, or get it returned."
Does Amazon accept AI images?
As of today Amazon doesn't ban images created or edited with artificial intelligence as such. The principle that matters is different: the image must accurately represent the product sold. Replacing the background of a real photo, placing the product in an in-use scene or adding a person using it are common practice; generating the product from scratch, with shapes, colours or details that differ from the real one, is the fastest way to returns, bad reviews and listing problems.
Photorealistic AI-generated people also raise transparency considerations, both on the marketplace and under the EU AI Act. Rules on generated content change quickly: always check the latest guidance on Seller Central.
- Yes: start from photos of the real product, change backgrounds, build in-use scenes, add consistent models.
- No: invent the product, improve its finish or colour, show accessories that aren't included.
Our method for keeping product, logo and packaging true is explained in how to keep products true in AI images.
The most common mistakes
- Near-white background instead of RGB 255,255,255.
- Product too small in the frame.
- Text, claims or badges on the main image.
- Images under 1000 pixels, so no zoom.
- Accessories in the photo that aren't in the box.
- Colours that differ between images and the real product.
Pre-upload checklist
- Main image on pure white, product at 85%, no text.
- At least 1600 px on the longest side.
- Secondary images: lifestyle, infographic, detail, box contents.
- Colour and details checked against the real product.
- Category rules checked on Seller Central.
Want the set produced without a studio? See our AI Amazon product images service. Also selling fashion on Zalando? Read the Zalando image requirements guide.
Frequently asked questions
What size should Amazon images be?
At least 1000 pixels on the longest side to enable zoom; we recommend 1600 or more. The maximum is 10,000 pixels. Accepted formats: JPEG, PNG, TIFF and non-animated GIF.
What background does the main image need?
Pure white, with an RGB value of 255,255,255. Near-white backgrounds such as #F5F5F5 get flagged by the automated check.
Can I put text or logos on the main image?
No. The main image must show only the product sold, with no text, added logos, watermarks or badges. Text and graphics belong in the secondary images.
Does Amazon accept AI-generated images?
Amazon doesn't ban images created or edited with AI as such, but they must accurately represent the product sold. Don't generate the product from scratch, and check the latest rules on Seller Central.
How many images can I upload?
Besides the main image you can upload several secondary images; how many are shown depends on category and device. Use them all: each image should answer a shopper's question.