CUSTOMSOLO · PHOTO GUIDE
Start with an original photo with a clear face, some space around the ears, and an expression you recognize. Then check the crop in the shape of the ornament before you order.
1. Start with the original photo
If you have it, choose the original image rather than a screenshot from social media. Open it at a larger size: can you still see the eyes, nose and familiar markings clearly? A file that looks sharp as a small thumbnail can look soft when enlarged.
Check the seller’s file requirements before uploading. A larger file alone does not guarantee a sharper print.
2. Leave room around the ears and chin
A rectangular photo may crop differently in a round design. Leave some background around your dog’s face so the layout can be adjusted without cutting off an ear or crowding the chin against the edge.
- Face: keep the expression visible and clear of decorative lettering.
- Ears: check that the crop includes the parts you want to keep.
- Chin: leave enough space beneath the mouth for the layout.
Review the actual design area rather than assuming the entire uploaded photo will appear. If a preview is unavailable or unclear, ask the seller to confirm the crop before ordering.
3. Keep the details that make your dog recognizable
Choose an expression you remember: the tilted head, relaxed face or familiar grin. Avoid filters that alter coat markings, eye color or facial shape.
If an older photo needs cleanup, compare the edited version with the original. Do not treat AI-added detail as a faithful record of your dog’s appearance.
4. Look at the layout at a small size
Reduce the design on your screen to roughly the size of the ornament you are considering. Can you recognize the face? Is the lettering readable? This helps you judge spacing; it does not predict the finished print’s color or sharpness.
5. Check these five things before ordering
- Photo clarity: review the original and the final crop.
- Name spelling: check every letter and any dates you choose to include.
- Selected size: use the measurements on the product page.
- Available options: confirm which words, dates and layout changes the selected design supports.
- Delivery estimate: check production time as well as shipping time, plus the policy for personalized items.
Short wording ideas
A short phrase can leave more room for the photo. Use one of these as a starting point, or write something only your family would say:
- Always my good dog.
- Your favorite spot is still yours.
- Every walk, remembered.
These are wording ideas. Check the selected product’s text fields and character limits before using them in a design.
Choosing a photo for someone else
Ask which picture they would like to keep close. A familiar expression may mean more to them than a perfectly posed portrait. You might say, “If you would like a photo keepsake, is there a picture you would choose?” Give them time to decide, including the option to wait.
Common questions
Can I use an older phone photo?
Possibly. Check the original file at a larger size and ask the seller whether it suits your selected design and size. Avoid assuming an enlarged or AI-enhanced file will print like a sharper original.
Should I add dates?
That is a personal choice, subject to the selected design’s available options. Check the dates with the recipient rather than guessing.
Does it need to be a Christmas photo?
No. Choose the picture you want to remember. You can consider a hanging keepsake for a suitable display spot beyond the Christmas tree, following the product’s care and hanging instructions.
Explore the CustomSolo keepsake
View the Always My Good Dog personalized memorial ornament to check the current sizes, personalization options and ordering details.