When customers visit a website, the images they see are usually the first thing they notice. Blurred images can have a damaging impact on the initial perception of a website. Sadly, this is a widespread problem among Shopify stores. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind why images may appear blurry, and explore the most common causes of the issue. From server-side issues to improper file formats, we will help you examine the most frequently encountered problems that result in blurry images.

Why are my images blurry on Shopify?  

Product images are a crucial aspect of your Shopify store, but they can sometimes appear blurry. You may want to look into these possible reasons and resolve them in order to showcase your products in the best light:

1. Low resolution images: Images with a low resolution can appear blurry when they are enlarged to fit the display area. 

2. Image compression: Shopify uses image compression to reduce the size of images, but this can also reduce the quality and cause blurriness. 

3. Improper scaling: If the aspect ratio of the image is not maintained while scaling, it can cause the image to appear blurry. 

4. Image format: Images saved in certain formats like JPEG can result in loss of quality and blurriness when compressed. 

5. Display size: Different devices have different display sizes and resolutions, which can affect how images appear on them. 

6. Image resolution: The size of the image on the screen must match its actual pixel resolution, or it may appear blurry. 

7. Web browser compatibility: Different web browsers display images differently, and some may cause images to appear blurry. 

8. Theme settings: The settings in your Shopify theme, such as the size and position of images, can also affect their appearance.

How do I fix blurry images on my Shopify store? 

Fixing Shopify blurry images isn’t rocket science. You can do it on your own if you have an ample amount of time and patience. Follow these tips to improve the quality of your images and prevent them from appearing blurry on your Shopify store:

1. Check the original resolution of the images: Make sure the original images you uploaded have a high enough resolution to display clearly on your website. 

2. Compress images: Large image files can slow down your website and cause images to appear blurry. Use image compression tools to reduce their file size. 

3. Use the right image format: JPEG is the most commonly used image format for the web, but PNG is also a good option for logos and graphics with transparent backgrounds.

4. Serve images in next-gen formats: Next-gen formats like JPEG 2000, JPEG XR, and WebP provide better compression, resulting in faster page load times and less blurriness. 

7. Specify image dimensions: Set the width and height of your images to prevent them from being stretched or resized, which can cause blurriness. 

8. Use high-quality images: Invest in high-quality images to ensure your product photos are sharp and clear. 

9. Test on different devices: Check the quality of your images on different devices and screen sizes to make sure they are clear and legible on all devices.

What is the minimum resolution for images on Shopify?

When it comes to displaying images on Shopify, the resolution of the image is important to consider. Resolution refers to the number of pixels in an image and is measured in pixels per inch (PPI). The minimum recommended resolution for images on Shopify is 72 PPI, meaning that there are 72 pixels in one inch of the image. This is the standard resolution for most digital displays and is considered to be the minimum acceptable quality for images. 

However, for the best display quality on high-resolution screens, such as modern smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors, it's recommended to use images with a resolution of at least 300 PPI. This means that there are 300 pixels in one inch of the image, resulting in a much higher level of detail and clarity when the image is displayed. 

Are there specific image formats recommended for use on Shopify? 

Shopify recommends using either JPG or PNG formats for product and promotional images. JPGs are best for images with many colors and details, as they can handle a variety of colors without increasing file size. PNGs are best for logos and icons because they support transparent backgrounds. To get the best results, it's suggested to use high-resolution images that are at least 2048 x 2048 pixels in size. This will make sure images display clearly and sharply on all devices, including those with high-resolution displays.

How can I improve the quality of my images on Shopify? 

By following these tips, you can improve the quality of your images and make a positive impression on your customers on Shopify.

Lighting

Good lighting is an essential aspect of creating high-quality images. It helps bring out the details and enhances the overall appearance of the product. Using natural light is always a great option, as it provides a soft and even illumination. However, if natural light is not available, investing in lighting equipment such as softbox lights can help ensure that your images are well lit and shadows are minimal. By doing so, you can control the lighting and create a more professional look. 

Background

The background you choose for your product images should complement the product and not distract from it. A solid color background works best, such as white or light gray, as it provides a neutral and unobtrusive setting for your product. This way, the focus remains on the product and its features, rather than being pulled away by a busy or patterned background. 

Composition

The composition of your images plays a significant role in how they are perceived by your audience. The placement of the product, the angles you use, and the perspective you choose can all impact the look and feel of the image. Experimenting with different compositions can help you find what works best for your products. 

Image Size

Shopify product images size and resolution are important considerations. Large images take longer to load and can impact the user experience, so it's crucial to make sure your images are the correct size and resolution for the web. This will ensure that they load quickly and look sharp and clear. 

Retouching

Consider retouching your images to remove blemishes, adjust brightness and contrast, and sharpen the overall look. Photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom can be used to make these adjustments, or you can hire a product photo editor to do it for you. Retouching can help improve the appearance of your images and create a more professional look. 

Hire a Product Photo Editor

 If you want to ensure that your images look professional and high-quality, hiring a product photo editor can be a great option. They have the skills and expertise to help you with everything from lighting and composition to retouching and color correction. Working with a product photo editor can help you create a consistent look and feel for your images, which can build trust with your customers and create a professional image for your brand. 

Outsource Your Product Photo Editing Needs to ManilaPros

At ManilaPros, we understand the importance of having high-quality product photos for your ecommerce business. That's why we offer comprehensive product image editing services to help elevate the appearance of your products. 

Our team of expert photo editors have the skills and knowledge to perform intricate image clean-ups, using the best software tools in the market. Whether you need image extraction, a clear or white background, logo fixing, color replacement, or dust clean-up, we've got you covered. 

We know that editing can be a time-consuming task, and we don't want that to hold you back from capturing even more amazing product photos. That's why we're here to take care of the editing process for you. By partnering with us, you'll be able to save time and focus on what you do best - taking beautiful photos.

Contact us today to learn more about our product photo editing services.