Etsy updated its Listing Image Requirements in October 2026. Most listings now need an unedited photo of the actual item, while digital downloads, print on demand, custom items, and patterns have their own rules. Use this free checker to see what your listing needs.
Etsy Listing Image Checker
Choose what you sell and tick what your listing images include. The checker tells you which images Etsy’s Listing Image Requirements policy (updated October 22, 2026) asks for, and flags common problems.
A planning aid based on Etsy’s Listing Image Requirements policy and Etsy’s October 2026 AI update. Read the full policy for your item type. If a buyer opens a case because the item is materially different from your images, Etsy says you may be responsible for the refund.
Etsy Image Rules at a Glance
| Item type | What Etsy requires |
|---|---|
| Most physical items | At least one unedited photo of the actual item against a real background |
| Print on demand | Stock photo mockups allowed if the owner authorized their use |
| Digital downloads with visuals | A visual preview or excerpt of the content |
| Digital items without visuals | Representative imagery that does not mislead |
| Custom items you make | Photos of real finished items you made before |
| Patterns, recipes, seeds | At least one real, unedited photo of a finished result |
Learn how to make mockups that follow these rules in our lesson on Etsy mockups.
Etsy Listing Image Checker FAQ
Do I need an unedited photo for digital downloads?
Etsy’s policy gives digital downloads their own rule: include a visual preview or excerpt of the content buyers receive.
Can I still use AI to edit photos on Etsy?
Etsy allows AI and photo editing on your other images to adjust lighting, color, cropping, or backgrounds, as long as the item is still accurately represented.
What if my images are misleading?
Etsy says if a buyer opens a case because the item is materially different, Etsy may refund the buyer and you may be responsible for the refund.