Choice of models

[Courtneyn]

I’m new here and have noticed there is a limited choice of models, 99% Caucasian , on this site to post product. I’m hesitant to share as my art and the model choice are not in sync. I have seen the no model option, but why aren’t there more diverse choices for models? For some Afrocentric  art products it looks odd. Will there ever be an op where we can have a menu of models to chose from? 

[KeegansCreation]

This is true. Hispanic, Indian and Asian models also aren't well represented. Or old models for those t shirts targeted at grandparents.

However you can also make your own cover images. I use PlaceIt for t shirts. They have considerable diversity of models of many ethnicities and ages. However it does require subscription.

[Courtneyn]

Thank you. So you just insert the image ? How do you bypass their models?

[KeegansCreation · Accepted solution]

Woops. I should have posted the how-to link:

how to make cover photos 

the short version of how to is:

1. go to the options bar at the top of the product page for your product
2. download your original artwork (for services like PlaceIt) or one of Zazzle's mockups whereby you erase the background and put in your own
3. Your cover photo must be square, I use 2048 x 2048 pixels which was the original desired size. I think they shrunk what is required but I can't remember what the new size is but 2048 x 2048 absolutely works.
4. Upload your new cover photo using the same bar options. This time choose Product Media Manager which brings you to the uploader.

[Courtneyn]

Thank you!

[PenguinPower]

You can’t exactly always bypass their models completely, the Z mockups remain, but your cover image will appear first. For a tee shirts you can turn the models off by selecting the box to not use any images with models in the marketing options, but it isn’t available with all products that use them. 

Here's an example for an apron

The mockup I made appears first, and whenever I share the item, but if you go there https://www.zazzle.com/mod_black_cats_custom_name_and_phrase_apron-256497357570164516 

you’ll see Z’s images still appear after mine - the bearded guy wears it well though 😂

[Courtneyn]

Thank you!

[RodneyK]

KeegansCreation has outlined a method to prepare your own mockups. Making your own mockups so that the mockup fits the design, compliments the subject of the product and stands out on the search page vastly increases your chances for a sale. There are many ways to create mockups. Information on various techniques can be found on the internet.

Most platforms have the same issue as Zazzle - the lack of diversity in apparel models. However, no matter how many and how diverse the models you still would probably be unable to find just the one that fits your design needs. Making your own is the best solution. At least, that is my experience.

[Courtneyn]

Agree. For now it’s way better now that using Placeit.