Image & Asset Requirements
Prepare image swatches, uploads, backgrounds, and overlay graphics for Live Preview.
Use lightweight, consistently sized images for reliable Live Preview. Image Swatch assets can be up to 2 MB each, while customer-facing Image Upload accepts supported images up to 8 MB.
File Size Limits
| Asset | Limit | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Image Swatch thumbnail | 2 MB | Small option image shown to the shopper |
| Image Swatch preview image | 2 MB | Visual layer or image used in Live Preview |
| Customer Image Upload | 8 MB | Shopper-provided PNG, JPG, JPEG, or WebP file |
Image Swatch assets and customer Image Upload files serve different purposes. The 8 MB customer upload limit does not change the 2 MB limit for merchant-created swatch and preview assets.
Dimensions and Aspect Ratios
- Use square product and variant images when possible.
- Keep every variant image at the same aspect ratio.
- Prefer the same pixel dimensions across all variant images.
- Leave enough consistent space around the product for personalization layers.
- Test both desktop and mobile after positioning the layers.
Recommended Formats
- Transparent PNG or WebP — Logos, artwork, charms, patches, and overlay graphics.
- JPG or WebP — Product photos and opaque background images.
- PNG, JPG, JPEG, or WebP — Supported customer Image Upload formats.
Recommended Setup Order
- Create the Shopify product and variants.
- Assign the final product or variant images in Shopify.
- Choose the Live Customizer background source in Podifai.
- Upload the thumbnail, preview, and overlay assets.
- Position and resize each Live Preview layer.
- Test the customizer on desktop and mobile.
Performance
Compress preview assets before uploading them. Load time increases with the number and size of option values, preview images, and visual layers. If a product contains an extremely large catalog of choices, remove unused values or split the configuration into smaller product flows.
Related Guides
FAQ
Why can't I upload an Image Swatch file larger than 2 MB?
Image Swatch thumbnail and preview assets are limited to 2 MB each. Customer-facing Image Upload is a different option and accepts PNG, JPG, JPEG, and WebP files up to 8 MB.
What image shape works best for Live Preview?
Square images work best when possible. Keep every product and variant image at the same aspect ratio and preferably the same pixel dimensions so preview layers stay aligned.
Which format should I use for overlay graphics?
Use transparent PNG or WebP assets for logos, artwork, patches, charms, and other graphics that should appear over the product background.