Policies & decisions
Are AI Product Photos Allowed?
There is no blanket answer for every marketplace or image slot. Etsy generally requires original photos of the actual product, with specific exceptions. Amazon requires accurate product representation and has main-image rules plus a metadata requirement for entirely AI-generated photorealistic people. Shopify offers AI background editing, but that does not override rules for connected sales channels. Review the actual destination and image use before publishing.
Updated 4 October 2026 · Official sources linked below
Check the platform and the image's job
| Destination | Official guidance | Practical review |
|---|---|---|
| Etsy | Actual-product photos; specific mockup exceptions | Read the exception for your item and image slot |
| Amazon US | Accurate representation; main-image requirements | Review the product and any synthetic-person metadata |
| Shopify store | AI background editing and product-media specs | Preview the theme and connected-channel requirements |
| TikTok Shop US | Clear, accurate product listing images | Check current regional policies in Seller Center |
This is a reading guide to the linked platform sources, not an approval decision. An AI-created item policy is different from a listing photography policy.
What does Etsy's image policy actually say?
Etsy's listing image policy generally requires original photos of the actual finished product. Its named exceptions address customized items and items made with production partners.
For personalized items, the first image must show a finished customized example; computer-generated mockups may show customization options in additional images. Some production-partner designs have a stock-mockup exception. Read the specific exception rather than treating AI-item disclosure as permission to replace all product photos.
What should Amazon sellers review?
Amazon's US product image guide requires accurate representation of the product's scale, quantity and colour. The main image must show the full product and comply with the applicable background, fill and content rules.
The same official guide says images containing entirely AI-generated photorealistic people need the contains-synthetic-performer keyword in the dc:subject XMP field. The browser image checker does not add this metadata or decide whether a person is synthetic. Review Amazon's current instructions for the image you plan to upload.
How do Shopify and TikTok Shop differ?
Shopify documents AI removal or replacement of image backgrounds in its media editor. Your store's theme and media limits still apply, and a connected marketplace can have additional rules.
TikTok Shop US asks for clear images that accurately show the actual item. The cited page is product-image guidance, not blanket permission for AI-generated listing photos. Check the current policy for your region and product category.
What should you check before publishing?
Separate a visual campaign concept from an image documenting the item for sale. Verify product details, destination rules, image role and any required disclosure or metadata. Keep the actual product photo as your review reference.
- Product accuracy
- Check the label, colour, quantity, size and included accessories.
- Image role
- A main listing image, an additional detail view and a marketing ad may follow different requirements.
- Tool scope
- Technical checks and resizing cannot guarantee a policy review outcome.
Official sources
Checked 4 October 2026. Recheck your destination before publishing.
A few things to know
Does selling an AI-created item allow AI listing photos on Etsy?
These are separate policies. Read Etsy's listing image requirements and the exception that applies to your actual item.
Does an Amazon checker pass guarantee approval?
No. The checker measures selected file and image properties; content accuracy, category rules and metadata still need review.
Can a generated marketing image change the product?
It can, which is why you should compare the result with a genuine source photo and reject misleading changes.
Make the next visual your own.
Generation requires an active membership and sufficient credits. Any introductory offer depends on your account and the current checkout. See Plans for current pricing and eligibility; there is no permanent free generation tier. View pricing.