What are the optimal file output settings for AI e-commerce images?

TL;DR (Quick Answer)

For the final upload to your store, use WebP or JPG at 80-90% quality to balance speed and visual fidelity. However, when working inside an AI editor, always export and save as PNG. PNG is lossless and supports transparency, which is vital for layering. Nightjar allows you to export in high-fidelity formats and handles aspect ratio filling automatically, so you don't need to crop manually for different platforms.

Input vs. Output Settings

There are two stages to consider: the file you feed the AI, and the file you put on your website.

1. The Working File (Input/Editing)

When moving images between tools or uploading to Nightjar:

• Format: PNG.
• Why: Every time you save a JPG, it compresses the data. If you edit a JPG, save it, and edit it again, you get "generation loss" (digital rot). PNG prevents this.
• Transparency: Essential if you are using its "Product Placement" to composite your product into different scenes.

2. The Delivery File (Your Website)

Once you have generated your visuals in the tool (e.g., a multi-shot angle or a lifestyle scene), export based on the destination:

Platform	Recommended Format	Ideal Dimensions
Shopify / Web Store	WebP (or JPG)	2048 x 2048 px (Square)
Instagram / TikTok	JPG	1080 x 1350 px (4:5 Portrait)
Amazon Listing	JPG (Pure White BG)	2000 x 2000 px

A Note on Aspect Ratios

A common mistake is squashing high-res images into the wrong shape. Instead of cropping (and losing part of the image) or stretching (and warping the product), use AI Outpainting. It can take a square product shot and "fill" the sides to make it a 16:9 banner or a 9:16 story format. The AI invents realistic background extensions, keeping the product perfectly centered and untouched.