Get the entire face of the pet/person (including the ears!) in the picture

Good consistent lighting on the face (outside shots with natural light are ideal, especially for darker pets!)

Nothing obstructing the view of the face (ex: pillow, tree branch, grass, etc)

Good resolution (standard digital camera/smartphone – doesn’t have to be taken by a professional photographer)

Try to avoid using a photo that has an intense yellow/orange tint shining on the face from lamps/bulbs

Straight on shots of the person/pet tend to look best on the socks

Avoid taking a photo of a physical photo