House of Bid
How many photos does each lot need?
Each lot needs enough photos that a stranger could find it in the house and judge condition without guessing. Shoot front and back, maker labels, damage, and the room or area where it sits. One pretty angle is not a catalog lot.
What angles are required?
At minimum: a clear front, a back or underside when it matters, close-ups of labels or serial plates, and any wear you would mention in copy. Furniture needs scale — a wide shot in the room plus detail on scratches or stains.
Why photograph the location in the house?
Pickup day is chaos. A photo of the lot in context — “north bedroom closet shelf” — saves staff and buyers time. It is not staging for Instagram; it is wayfinding.
What if I only have one good photo?
Do not publish until you have the set. Buyers treat missing angles as hidden damage. Staff can reject lots that look incomplete on preview morning.
Questions
Can I reuse a stock photo?
- No. Every image must be of the actual piece on your sale. Stock or manufacturer photos mislead buyers and violate the ban policy.
Do Local listings use the same rules?
- Yes for honesty and angles. Local adds meetup and payment rules on the Marketplace page — timed estates use the dock and invoice flow.