How to Choose a Photo for a Custom Portrait
Learn how to pick a sharp, well-lit photo, avoid awkward crops, and prepare a family, couple, or pet image for a custom portrait.
Start with the original file
Use the original from your camera or phone when possible. A screenshot or copy from a messaging app can hide fine detail. Open the photo and zoom in on the eyes and face. If those details look soft on screen, choose a sharper file or a smaller print.
Look for clear light and recognizable faces
Soft daylight makes facial features easy to see. A backlit silhouette may look beautiful as a photograph, but it gives less facial detail to work with. For pets, look for a sharp image at eye level with visible eyes and fur detail.
Leave space around the subject
Check the crop for the size you plan to order. Keep faces, ears, hands, and other important details away from the edges, especially when moving from a landscape original to a square or vertical format.
Review the photo in the intended style
Compare how your image looks across different art styles and check the preview before choosing a size or finish.
Explore photo art styles →