Media case study / 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon

The value of
better presentation.

The same car and the same seller returned to Bring a Trailer with new photography by our team and a different auction approach. The later sale finished $9,500 above the earlier high bid.

Original auction lead photograph of the Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon

Original listing

$71,500High bid · Reserve not metView the original listing
Revised auction lead photograph of the same Mercedes-AMG E63 S wagon, taken by our team

Our photography

$81,000Sold · No reserveView the later listing

$9,500 higher. A completed sale on the second listing.

What changed.

We supplied the revised photography for the second listing. Both auctions identify the same VIN, the same seller, and approximately 57,000 miles. The later presentation shows the car with different lighting, framing, and color balance.

In the original lead image, the Piedmont Green Metallic paint reads strongly blue. Our revised image gives the green paint a clearer presence and uses a lower viewpoint to show the wagon’s proportions. These are visible differences in how the car is presented.

Give buyers a clear view.

A photograph is often the first opportunity to explain a car’s appeal. Color, specification, stance, and condition should be easy to read. Careful lighting and framing help a buyer understand those details before opening the full listing.

That first image also sets expectations for the rest of the presentation. A coherent set should make it straightforward to move from overall views to the cabin, equipment, records, and visible wear.

Help buyers assess condition.

Good auction photography includes the details that invite questions. Close views of upholstery, wheels, paintwork, and known faults help an interested buyer decide what to ask and what to inspect in person.

Our aim is a clear, complete account of the vehicle. Attractive lead images and honest condition coverage belong together.

The auction approach matters too.

The first auction carried a reserve and ended without a sale. The second was offered at no reserve. Bidding increased from 10 bids in the original auction to 30 in the later one.

Photography was part of the changed presentation. Timing, the participating bidders, and reserve strategy also influence a result, so this comparison cannot isolate a dollar return from photography alone.

What this means for your listing.

Before submitting a car, review the presentation as a buyer would. Is the color clear? Can you follow the exterior, interior, and mechanical details? Are the important records and faults covered? Is it easy to understand what makes this particular car worth considering?

Drivers Select offers professional photography for owners managing their own auction listings, with completed photo sets delivered within 48 hours. We also provide full auction management when you would like help with preparation, the listing, and buyer communication.

The public results.

Two auctions for VIN WDDZH8KBXJA460815, offered by seller mark_starr.
ListingOriginal listingRevised listing
Auction formatWith reserveNo reserve
OutcomeReserve not metSold
High / winning bid$71,500$81,000
Bids1030

The $9,500 difference compares the earlier high bid with the later winning bid. The revised photography is our team’s work; the seller on both auctions remained mark_starr.

Sources: Original auction · Revised auction.

Photography for
your next listing.

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