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Image Optimisation

Tips and best practices for preparing and optimizing card images for better recognition accuracy.

Image Quality Requirements


For best recognition results:

  • Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI recommended, 600 DPI ideal
  • File Format: JPG, PNG, or WEBP supported
  • File Size: Maximum 10MB per image
  • Focus: Card details must be sharp and readable
  • Lighting: Bright, even lighting without harsh shadows
  • Orientation: Cards should be upright and properly aligned

Photography Tips


Best practices for photographing cards:

  • Lighting Setup: Use diffused natural light or soft white LED lights
  • Background: Use a plain, contrasting background (dark for light cards, light for dark cards)
  • Camera Position: Hold camera parallel to the card surface
  • Distance: Fill the frame with the card, leaving small margins
  • Avoid Glare: Position lights at 45-degree angles to prevent reflections
  • No Flash: Avoid using direct flash photography

Common Image Issues


Avoid these common problems:

  • Motion Blur: Use a tripod or stabilize your camera
  • Glare/Reflections: Adjust lighting angle or use polarizing filter
  • Poor Focus: Ensure card text is crisp and readable
  • Shadows: Use even, diffused lighting from multiple angles
  • Rotation: Keep card properly oriented in frame
  • Cropping: Include the entire card with slight margins

Batch Scanning Tips


For scanning multiple cards efficiently:

  • Consistent Setup: Keep lighting and camera position constant
  • Card Spacing: If scanning multiple cards per image, ensure adequate spacing
  • Naming Convention: Use descriptive file names for easier organization
  • Batch Size: Upload 50-100 images at a time for optimal processing
  • Group by Set: Organize cards by set before photographing

Using a Scanner


Recommended scanner settings:

  • Resolution: Set to 300 DPI or higher
  • Color Mode: Use full color (24-bit color)
  • Format: Save as JPG with high quality (90%+) or PNG
  • Auto-Crop: Disable auto-crop to maintain full card visibility
  • Enhancement: Disable automatic enhancement features
  • Placement: Place cards face-up on scanner bed

Mobile Phone Photography


Using a smartphone to photograph cards:

  • Clean Lens: Wipe camera lens before starting
  • Focus Lock: Tap to focus on the card before capturing
  • Exposure: Adjust exposure to avoid over/under-exposed images
  • HDR: Disable HDR mode for faster, more consistent results
  • Flash: Turn off flash and use natural or ambient lighting
  • Stabilization: Hold phone steady or use a stand

File Organization


Organize your image files:

  • Folder Structure: Create folders by set or date
  • File Naming: Use consistent naming (e.g., set-number-condition.jpg)
  • Backup: Keep backup copies of original images
  • Delete Failed: Remove blurry or unusable images before uploading