Journal/Tutorials

5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Base Photo

Sarah Jenkins
Feb 18, 2025
5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Base Photo

The magic of AI portrait generation relies heavily on the quality of the inputs.While our system is designed to handle imperfect photos, following these five tips will ensure your memorial portrait looks like a masterpiece.

1. Consistent Lighting Direction

Try to choose photos where the light source is coming from roughly the same direction.If the main family photo is lit from the left, but the photo of your loved one is lit from the right, the resulting shadow mismatch can look unnatural.

2. Eye Level Matters

Perspective is key.If your base photo is taken at eye level, avoid using a photo of your loved one taken from a high angle(looking down) or low angle(looking up).Matching the camera angle is the secret to believability.

Camera lens close up

3. Resolution

While we can enhance blurry photos, we can't invent details that aren't there.Ensure facial features are distinct.

4. Avoid heavy filters

Snapchat or Instagram filters that alter face shape or add elements(like dog ears) confuse the AI.Use original, raw photos whenever possible.

5. Emotional Resonance

Choose a photo where they look happy and like themselves.The goal is to capture their spirit.