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Craigslist allows you to upload up to 24 images in supported posting types. That gives you enough room to show the entire item, important details, included accessories and any flaws a buyer should know about.
Years ago, Craigslist updated their photo uploader. Earlier versions of the site allowed fewer pictures, but the current uploader gives sellers considerably more room to document an item.
You do not have to use all 24 photo slots. The goal is to include enough useful pictures to answer a buyer’s likely questions without filling the listing with repetitive images.
How to Place an Ad on Craigslist With Pictures
The exact wording of the buttons can vary slightly by browser or device, but the basic posting process works like this:
- Create a new Craigslist posting and choose the appropriate location, posting type and category.
- Enter the posting title, price, location, description and other requested information.
- Continue through the location or map screen when one is shown.
- On the image-upload screen, select Add Images, Choose Files or the similar button shown by your browser. On a computer, you may also be able to drag image files onto the page.
- Select the pictures stored on your phone, tablet or computer.
- Place your strongest picture first because the first image is used as the featured image.
- Drag the image thumbnails to change their order when necessary.
- Select Done With Images, review the unpublished posting and publish it when everything is accurate.
Adding clear pictures is one of the most useful parts of selling on Craigslist. Buyers can evaluate the item before contacting you, which may reduce repetitive questions and prevent misunderstandings about its condition.
Make the First Picture Your Best Picture
The first uploaded image is the featured picture. It may be the image buyers see while browsing listings, so it should clearly show what you are selling.
Use a well-lit photo of the complete item as the first image. Avoid using a close-up of a scratch, a picture of an accessory or a photo that cuts off part of the item as the featured picture. Those images can appear later in the photo order.
How Many Craigslist Pictures Should You Use?
The right number depends on the item. A simple household item may only need five or six pictures, while a vehicle, appliance, electronic device or large piece of furniture may need considerably more.
- Small, simple items: Show the front, back, sides, label, accessories and any damage.
- Furniture and appliances: Show the full item, measurements, controls, connections, interior areas and signs of wear.
- Electronics: Show the device powered on, its screen, buttons, ports, accessories and cosmetic condition.
- Cars and other vehicles: Include exterior angles, interior seating, dashboard, cargo area, tires, engine compartment and visible damage.
Use additional photo slots only when each picture gives the buyer new information. Several nearly identical pictures do not make the listing more useful.
Current Example: Pictures for a Used Smartphone
A used smartphone is a good example of an item that benefits from several detailed photos. Instead of showing the same front view repeatedly, you could include:
- A clear featured photo showing the complete phone.
- The front with the screen powered on.
- The back and camera lenses.
- The left and right sides, including the buttons.
- The charging port and speaker area.
- A close-up of any scratches, chips or cracks.
- The case, charging cable, box or other included accessories.
Before taking screen photos, hide notifications, account names, phone numbers and other personal information. Avoid publishing serial numbers or other identifying device information that buyers do not need to see in the public listing.
This same approach works for most items: start with a complete view, add useful angles, show important features and finish with honest close-ups of wear or damage.
And See These Other Resources
Read more helpful pages about Craigslist.