How to Create Perfect White Background Product Photos (With and Without AI)

Why White Backgrounds Matter

White background product photos aren't just an aesthetic choice; they're often a requirement. Amazon mandates pure white backgrounds for main product images. eBay recommends them. And shoppers have come to expect them because white backgrounds:

• Put focus entirely on the product
• Create a clean, professional appearance
• Make product features clearly visible
• Work seamlessly across all platforms
• Load faster due to simple compression

Traditional White Background Photography

Equipment You'll Need

For DIY white background photography, gather these essentials:

• White backdrop: Seamless paper, vinyl, or a lightbox
• Lighting: Two to three light sources (softboxes ideal)
• Camera: DSLR or quality smartphone
• Tripod: Essential for consistency
• Editing software: For final adjustments

Setup Process

1. Position your backdrop: Create a seamless curve from vertical to horizontal
2. Set up lights: Place one on each side at 45-degree angles, one above or behind
3. Overexpose the background: The white should be pure white (RGB 255,255,255)
4. Light the product separately: Ensure the product isn't washed out
5. Shoot tethered: Review images on a larger screen as you go

Post-Processing

Even with perfect setup, you'll likely need some editing:

• Adjust levels to ensure true white (use the eyedropper tool)
• Clean up any shadows or imperfections
• Crop consistently across all products
• Ensure colours remain accurate

The AI Alternative

Modern AI tools can skip most of this process entirely. Simply upload any product photo, and AI will:

1. Automatically remove the existing background
2. Generate a perfect pure white background
3. Add professional studio lighting effects
4. Create consistent shadows for depth
5. Deliver marketplace-ready images

When to Use AI vs. Traditional

Choose AI when:

• You have many products to photograph
• Speed is important
• Budget is limited
• You need consistent results quickly

Choose traditional when:

• Products require special handling or angles
• You need ultra-high resolution for print
• Products have complex transparency or reflection

Platform-Specific Requirements

Amazon

• Main image must have pure white background (RGB 255,255,255)
• Product must fill 85% of frame
• Minimum 1000 pixels on longest side
• No text, logos, or watermarks

eBay

• White or light grey background preferred
• Minimum 500 pixels on longest side
• Clear, in-focus images required

Shopify/Own Store

• Consistent style across all products
• Square format often works best
• Multiple angles recommended

ShopShot creates perfect white background product photos in seconds. Upload your image and receive marketplace-ready photos instantly.