Approaches are described for ranking images against image effects. An image effect is identified from a plurality of image effects. Each image effect includes instructions defining steps of modifying visual data of an input image to produce an output image. Preview images are generated, where for each data object of a plurality of data objects the instructions of the image effect are applied to a respective image corresponding to the data object to generate a preview image of the data object. Ranking scores are determined, where for each data object visual data of the respective image is analyzed using a set of evaluation criteria associated with the image effect to determine a ranking score of the image effect for the data object. Data is transmitted which causes at least one of the preview images to be presented on a user device based on the ranking scores.