You could use this software to alter your pics before uploading also. It's a free download and I've used it for years.
http://www.irfanview.com/
My sales escalated when using Auctiva.
I will tell you that Jeff's tellin the truth..summer sales are always down. I retire 3 of my eBay IDs during the summer as to me, there's just no sense in selling items during that time and practically giving them away.
If I wait until late summer/early fall...I get lots more money for the same item.
Good Luck,
Donna