A successful custom figurine starts with a good photo. You don't need professional equipment: a sharp, well-lit shot that is true to the person is often the best starting point. Here is how to select your image before placing your order.
1. Choose a sharp photo with the face visible
The first thing to check is how sharp the features are. The eyes, hair and outline of the face must be sufficiently visible. Avoid heavily compressed screenshots, filters that alter the face and photos taken from too far away. If you have to enlarge the image a lot to make out the details, choose another photo instead.
2. Favor soft, even lighting
Natural light near a window works very well. A photo taken facing the light is generally better than a portrait with the sun behind the person. Avoid strong shadows that hide part of the face, as well as very colorful lighting: it makes the colors harder to interpret.
3. Show the details that make the person recognizable
Glasses, a hairstyle, a hat or a particular clothing style all contribute to a figurine's personality. If you want to keep these elements, select a photo where they are clearly identifiable. Keep in mind, however, that a miniature figurine interprets and simplifies some very fine details.
4. Also think about the outfit and the silhouette
For a desk figurine, a photo that shows the outfit can be more useful than a very tight selfie. A natural pose, visible arms and contrasting clothes make the silhouette easier to read. If the model you order requires a particular view, follow the instructions shown in its configurator.
5. For a couple, make sure both people are clearly visible
Choose an image where both faces are sharp and neither is hidden by the other. If the model's configurator offers separate photos, prepare two consistent portraits, preferably with similar brightness. For a miniature duo, the main thing is that each person remains identifiable.
6. Check the result before confirming
The configurator displays the customization steps associated with the chosen model. Take the time to check your files, the selected options and, when a preview is offered, the important details before ordering.
Which photo should you avoid?
A very blurry photo, a cropped face, pronounced backlighting, an excessive beauty filter or an image where the person appears tiny are the most common mistakes. The right image is the one where you immediately recognize the subject.
Create your figurine from a photo
Have you found your best shot? Discover the custom color 3D figurine. To represent two people, explore the custom couple figurine. And for a small keepsake to take along, check out the custom figurine keychains.