How to convert product detail photos for a catalog

You have a folder of product detail photos, but the catalog import asks for a particular image format. Converting every photo without checking the listing rules can leave you with files that still fail to upload, or images that no longer have transparency.

First check what the catalog accepts, then convert copies in one batch. The Image Converter supports JPG, PNG, WebP, GIF, BMP, ICO, and TIFF, with up to 50 images per batch.

Convert product photos for catalog export

1. Check the catalog requirements. Look for accepted formats, maximum file size, required image dimensions, and whether transparent backgrounds are allowed. Keep the requirement page or import instructions nearby while you work.
2. Make a working copy. Keep your original product photos unchanged. Copy the images you plan to use into a separate folder so you can compare them or start again if the conversion does not suit the catalog.
3. Open the Image Converter. Add the copies you want to convert. It can handle up to 50 images at once, so split a larger collection into batches.
4. Choose the required output format. Select the format named in the catalog rules. If the catalog accepts several formats, use the guidance below to choose one that suits the image and the import process.
5. Save and inspect the converted files. Keep the new files in a separate export folder. Open a few, including detail shots with fine edges or transparent backgrounds, and confirm that they look right before using them in the catalog.

Converting a file format does not necessarily change its pixel dimensions or crop. If the catalog requires a particular width, height, or square aspect ratio, check those separately. Do not assume that a file is ready just because its format is accepted.

Choose the right format for the catalog

Use JPG when the catalog asks for a broadly compatible photo

JPG is a common choice for product photography with a solid background. It can keep photo files relatively compact, but it does not preserve transparent areas. Conversion to JPG can also change fine image detail because JPG uses lossy compression. If the background must remain transparent, choose another format that the catalog supports.

Use PNG when transparency or crisp edges matter

PNG can preserve transparency and is often useful for logos, isolated products, and images with sharp edges. It may produce larger files than JPG for detailed photographs. Check the catalog's file-size limit before choosing it for a large collection.

Use WebP only if the catalog accepts it

WebP can be a practical option when the catalog platform explicitly supports it. Do not assume that a format accepted by a web browser is accepted by a product importer. Follow the catalog's supported-format list, especially when the files will be sent to a distributor or another system.

Use other formats only when the instructions call for them

GIF, BMP, ICO, and TIFF are supported formats in the converter, but they are not interchangeable with the formats a catalog requires. A TIFF may be requested for a print workflow, for example, while ICO is intended for icons. If the catalog specifies one of these, use its exact instructions rather than picking a format based on the file extension alone.

How to fix common conversion problems

1. Check the importer rules again. A file can open normally and still be rejected by a catalog that does not accept its format. Confirm the extension and any file-size limit in the catalog's own instructions.
2. Keep the background you need. If a product cutout has transparent areas, do not convert it to JPG. Choose a supported format that preserves transparency, such as PNG, and inspect the result against a contrasting background.
3. Convert fewer files at a time. If a large batch is slow or does not finish, try a smaller group. This also makes it easier to identify whether one particular source image is causing the issue.
4. Open a converted file before importing it. Check that the image displays, the product is not cut off, and small details still look acceptable. If the result is unsuitable, return to the original and choose a different output format.
5. Check dimensions separately. If the catalog reports that an image is too small, too large, or the wrong shape, format conversion alone may not solve it. Use an image editor or another approved process to resize or crop a copy to the catalog's stated dimensions.

Prepare a reliable export folder

Keep the original images, converted files, and any resized versions separate. This makes it easier to identify which file was imported and prevents a later conversion from overwriting the only copy of a product photo. Use clear filenames that match the catalog's naming rules, such as a product identifier and view name, if those rules allow it.

Before converting the entire collection, test a small group that includes different kinds of images: a plain product photo, a close-up with fine detail, and any image with a transparent background. Import those files first if the catalog allows a test import. A successful test can reveal format or dimension requirements before you prepare every item.

The Image Converter runs in your browser, and the files you open stay on your device.