Craymi1. Start with a sharp original
Use the original photo when you have it. Screenshots, thumbnails and heavily compressed images can lose the detail around eyes, ears and faces. Zoom in: if those edges are already blurry, choose another photo.
The upload screen shows the currently supported file types and size limits. Passing those checks means a file can be uploaded; it does not guarantee a good outline.
2. Look for even light
Soft daylight often makes the face or pet easier to see. Avoid a face in deep shadow against a bright window. For dark-coated pets, choose a photo where the eyes, muzzle and body edges are separate and visible.
3. Give the subject some space
Choose a simple background and keep the important features inside the frame. A collar, favorite toy or familiar pose can help make a page personal. A crowded room, grass, fences and patterned clothing can add many small lines.
For a family photo, begin with one or two people. Overlapping faces, hands and arms deserve an especially careful preview check.
4. Match the style to the activity
Bold Lines is a useful starting point for larger spaces to color. Storybook and Detailed offer other treatments. The same photo can behave differently in each style, so choose by the actual preview, not the style name alone.
5. Inspect the preview
- Can you recognize the face, pose or pet markings?
- Are the main outlines intact, with no extra limbs or objects?
- Is there enough white space to color comfortably?
- Do fine details still look clear when you view the page at print size?
If the result is difficult to color, try a simpler photo or a different line style. AI output can change details; inspect every page before you download a book.
6. Use photos you have permission to upload
Have an adult manage family photos and check the background for details they do not want included. Read the current processing and deletion information on Photos & privacy before uploading.