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SteelBlueTJ

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Apr 2, 2012
445
67
USA
Would there be a worthwhile improvement in upgrading my iPhone X to the 11 Pro Max? I use the camera constantly for my ebay store and want something better. I kind of want the bigger screen too since my eyes aren't the best. Thanks for any advice.
 
if you have enough light there isn't much difference. would probably help more to invest in a decent photo light and or stand alone camera
 
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Would there be a worthwhile improvement in upgrading my iPhone X to the 11 Pro Max? I use the camera constantly for my ebay store and want something better. I kind of want the bigger screen too since my eyes aren't the best. Thanks for any advice.

Here are a few I took:

 
I’d also recommend a dedicated camera if you want to see bigger improvements in picture quality.
 
I buy a lot of stuff on ebay-- not usually computers, but the occasional electronics item. clothing, books, cds.

Here's what I would consider a useful photo.

Well lit.
Photographed against a neutral background.
If there is text, it should be legible.
In focus. No blur, either intentional or from color shake
COLOR CORRECTED.

I'm not a seller, so take that for what it's worth.

If you can figure out a cost effective way of getting product photos that meet those standards...

By the way, the yellow cast in your product photo may give the wrong impression.
 
I believe light is more crucial than the actual device. I've been using a phone for my eBay pictures since the iPhone 7. I used to use a DSLR but it's so much easier to take it with the phone and with iCloud Photos use any of my devices to create the eBay ad.

I currently have an iPhone X and what I make sure I do is take pictures outside in natural light. If the weather isn't cooperative, then I'll open up the blinds in the morning room and take pictures there. I've been using the X for several years and have had no issues using it for selling items on eBay. I believe part of the reason I get maximum prices for my listings are my detailed pictures and accurate descriptions.
 
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Here's my thoughts OP, if you're happy with the pics taken from your X, then yes, you'd be happy with the pics from the Max. Will it be a big, noticeable difference, no probably not. Now, purchasing the Max for the larger screen size, well the Max is fantastic, lot's of people who try the Max sized phones adapt quickly and cannot go back to the smaller screen phones. Myself included. Anyway that's just my thoughts...
 
IMHO there's little difference, to the point where it's not worth the purchase. You'd be better off ensuring the object is well lit (ie open the blinds, use a second light source or take a photo outside), purchasing a tripod (stable base to take a photo from) and ensuring your photos are in focus when taken (especially important when trying to judge the condition of the item).

Like others have previously posted in this thread, you want to present the item in the best possible condition to get maximum profit.

I believe part of the reason I get maximum prices for my listings are my detailed pictures and accurate descriptions.

+1

In addition, make sure the item you're selling is clean (where applicable). A well presented item (especially a laptop like the OP is selling ) will attract more interest than a poorly presented one.
 
take your pics with natural light and or get some decent 30watt 5000K LED lighting
 
Any iPhone makes for a poor eBay product shot camera unless you're taking pictures of real big things like bikes or something. Get a point & shoot Nikon or Canon camera that has a REAL zoom lens and macro lens. They're tiny cameras and the picture quality is much better than the iPhone for shots of products because the lenses are better. Also they can shoot really close up macro shots that are impossible with an iPhone.
The picture below was taken with a cheap Canon point & shoot camera that has a "magnifying lens" macro zoom feature. A shot like this is impossible on an iPhone

image.jpeg
 
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