Shopify / Etsy Image Optimization Checklist (Speed + Conversions)
Product images influence both speed and conversion rate. Slow image-heavy pages increase bounce rate; overly compressed images reduce trust. The goal is to find the balance: small files, clean visuals, consistent branding.
Checklist: What "Good" Looks Like
- Images load fast on mobile.
- Product photos stay sharp (no blocky artifacts).
- Consistent dimensions across product galleries.
- Optional watermark is subtle (if used).
- File sizes are reasonable and repeatable with a preset workflow.
Recommended Choices (Simple Rules)
- Format: WebP (best practical default), JPEG for compatibility
- Compression: compress until you can't notice artifacts in the product edges and text labels
- Consistency: keep a standard aspect ratio across listings
If you are unsure, start with WebP and moderate compression, then adjust.
File Size Targets (Practical Guidance)
Targets depend on image type, but a good starting point:
- Gallery images: keep each image reasonably small while visually clean
- Thumbnails: much smaller than gallery images
- Hero images: prioritize quality, but still compress
The most important rule: test your actual product photos (textures, gradients, backgrounds).
The Bulk Workflow (Fastest Way to Optimize a Store)
If you maintain many products, avoid one-by-one editing. Use a repeatable batch workflow:
- 1. Resize to your chosen standard dimensions
- 2. Compress to reduce file size
- 3. Convert to WebP
- 4. Optional: Watermark with your brand logo
- 5. Download as a ZIP and upload
Once you find the settings you like, save it as a preset so future runs are one click.
Watermarking: When It Helps (and When It Hurts)
Watermarks can protect brand assets, but they can also reduce conversion if they distract from the product.
If you watermark:
- Keep opacity low
- Place it consistently (corner)
- Avoid covering product detail
Final Takeaways
- Use a consistent workflow across all products.
- Prefer modern formats (WebP) where possible.
- Compress carefully and validate on mobile.
- Use bulk + presets for repeatable outcomes.
Tools You Can Use
Optimize your store images with our free tools:
- Resize images → /tools/resize
- Compress images → /tools/compress
- Convert images → /tools/convert
- Add watermark → /tools/watermark
- Do it all at once → /tools/bulk