Photos in ads: how images affect trust and views

Why photos matter more than text

A buyer looks at the picture first, then reads the description. An ad without photos or with low-quality shots raises doubts: the seller is hiding something, or the item is not in the condition described. Good photos are the first step to trust, and trust directly affects the number of replies.

How images work in search results

In the search results list, each ad is shown with a preview — a small image. This is what the user sees while scrolling the feed. If the preview is dark, blurry, or cropped so the subject is unclear, the ad gets skipped. Make sure the main object fills most of the frame and is visible even at a small size.

Practical tips on file weight and framing

You don't need to chase “magic” resolutions or megapixels. Simple rules are enough:

File weight. Aim for 100 KB to 3 MB per photo. Heavier files (10+ MB) take longer to upload, especially on mobile data. If a photo weighs more, compress it right on your phone or in any simple editor.
Frame size. Any modern smartphone photo works — usually 3000–4000 pixels on the long side. No need to shrink it to “ideal” values; the platform prepares the preview for the feed automatically.
Orientation. Horizontal and vertical shots work equally well. The key is that the object is centered and not cut off when shown in the list.
Quantity. Add 3–5 photos: overall view, close-up, condition, defects (if any), accessories. Honest photos of defects build more trust than trying to hide them.

Uploading from a phone

Most users post ads from a smartphone. Phone photos work by default — no extra setup needed. Just make sure the shots are taken in daylight or good lighting, without harsh flash and without strangers in the frame.