Photo & Video Requirements

Everything you need to know before you start shooting. Bookmark this page and refer back to it when you're ready.

Required Formats

We need 1:1 square photos. If your device can't shoot square, use portrait (4:5 or 4:3) and we'll crop them. Video is optional, but encouraged only if you have a turntable. Shoot more than you need and we'll pick the best.

Square photo β€” 1:1

  • Set your camera to 1:1 aspect ratio.
  • Shoot in portrait or landscape orientation.
  • Rotate the terrain between shots so we see it from all angles.
  • Leave a little space around the terrain so it doesn't feel cramped.

Video β€” 9:16 vertical

  • Turntable videos only.
  • Set the resolution to 1080p and 30fps.
  • Shoot in portrait orientation.
  • Upload without editing. We’ll edit and remove background noise.

Composition Guidance

We're not looking for studio photography. We're looking for terrain that looks like it belongs on a real gaming table.

DO

  • Place terrain on a gaming mat, felt, or textured surface.
  • Use a backdrop if possible.
  • Shoot from a slight angle rather than directly above.
  • Get close enough to fill the frame.

DON'T

  • Include a miniature in the scene.
  • Include clutter in the background.
  • Shoot on a bare white table, kitchen bench, or carpet.
  • Submit photos where the terrain is out of focus or blurry.

Lighting Guidance

Lighting is the single biggest factor in photo quality. Bad lighting can't be fixed in editing.

DO

  • Shoot near a window with natural daylight.
  • Use a cheap LED lightbox if you have one.
  • Shoot on an overcast day if shooting outdoors.

DON'T

  • Use the phone's flash.
  • Shoot in a dim room under yellow ceiling lights.
  • Shoot in direct harsh sunlight.

TIP

  • If you can clearly see the texture and detail on the terrain in your photo, the lighting is good enough.
  • If you're struggling to see the detail you painted, find better light.