Image Specifications

So we can both look our best, we ask that you follow these simple steps for creating and uploading high-quality images.

Quick Tips

• Optimal image size at least 500 pixels wide. However, you can submit pictures of any size and we will resize them as needed.
• Picture file size should be under 200 KB (kilobytes) for quick uploads.
• Save your edited picture as a .jpeg or .jpg file (file types other than .jpeg, .jpg, or .gif should not be used).

Creating a digital photo

• A digital camera is the easiest and best way to get sharp photos. Your digital camera will come with instructions on how to transfer (upload) your photo to your computer.
• Regular camera and scanner: Take a picture with a regular camera and then use a scanner to convert your picture into an electronic image. Scanners directly transfer pictures to your computer.
• Video camera and VCR tape: You can transfer pictures from your video camera or VCR tapes using a video capture device and software.

Saving a digital photo

1. Choose "Save As" from the "File" menu.
2. Name your file.
3. Select JPEG or JPG from the "Save as type" drop-down list. Note: Selecting JPEG or JPG will automatically end your filename with .jpg (for example, "cockphoto" will now be "cockphoto.jpg" (be sure to give your image a unique name).

Uploading a digital photo

1. To upload a picture, click the "Browse" button.
2. Select the file folder on your computer where your picture is stored.
3. If you can't find your picture within the file folder, try selecting "All file types" to view all the files within that folder.
4. Select your picture and click "open".

Shooting a good digital picture. The top 5 ways to better pictures:

1. Shoot in indirect light. Most digital cameras have built-in flashes, but they suck. When shooting in a dimly lit room or at night, a subject a few feet away will appear luminous against a black background. For best results, shoot in a naturally lit room during the day.
2. Use the flash in backlit conditions. The best use for a flash is to fill in shadows in full daylight.
3. Avoid digital zoom. Many digital cameras offer two kinds of zoom: an optical zoom and a digital zoom. Of the two, the optical zoom is the only one you should use.
4. For close-ups, use the LCD. The more accurate framing device is the LCD screen: turn it on and you get a live video feed directly from the CCD. What you see on the LCD screen is more representative of what you'll get.
5. Shoot at the highest resolution. Always shoot at the highest resolution your camera offers.