Table of contents
Overview
Given the non-refundable nature of AI extractions with our partners, Pure Photos and 36Pix, this guide offers professional guidance to address potential issues and ensure optimal results.
Requirements
- Minimum file size: 12 megapixels
- Color space: sRGB
- Maximum file size: 30MB
- File type: JPG or JPEG
- Pure Photos limit: 10,000 images per service request
Lighting
Lighting plays a critical role in the quality of AI cutouts. Use these tips to improve extraction results:
Importance of even, consistent lighting
Even lighting helps the AI distinguish subjects from backgrounds with minimal shadow and highlight interference.
Avoiding harsh shadows and blown-out highlights
- Highlight control: Use reflectors and diffusers to soften lighting and maintain detail in bright areas.
- Shadow control: Fill lights help ensure even exposure, especially in low-light settings like gyms.
Ideal lighting setups
- Individual portraits: Use key, fill, and backlight to sculpt the subject.
- Group photos: Ensure broad, even lighting coverage for all subjects.
- Background separation: Use separate lighting to distinguish the subject from the backdrop.
Backgrounds and props
Backgrounds and props should simplify, not complicate, AI extractions:
Using plain, uncluttered backgrounds
Solid-color backgrounds reduce noise and improve AI accuracy. White and gray are ideal.
Choosing the best materials
- Use matte vinyl or non-reflective fabric backdrops
- Use foot mats matching the background color
Avoiding complex backgrounds and props
Busy textures and detailed props confuse AI detection. Stick with simple, body-close props like basketballs. Avoid long or detailed items like bats, rackets, or netting.
[Optional] For complex props, consider using 36Pix’s human-verified extraction service.
Prop setup best practices
- Use contrasting backgrounds: Helps AI distinguish subject and props.
- Keep props close: Prevents AI from removing or distorting them.
- Even lighting: Reduces shadows around props and improves accuracy.
- Use depth and perspective: Adds visual clarity for AI.
Camera settings
- Aperture: f/8 or higher for better depth of field
- Shutter speed: 1/125s or faster to avoid blur
- ISO: Use 100–400 in bright settings; increase only as needed in low light
Post-processing tips
Adjust exposure, contrast, and white balance
- Exposure: Keep subjects evenly exposed
- Contrast: Boost slightly to enhance separation
- White balance: Maintain color accuracy
Avoid over-editing
- Natural look: Avoid heavy filters or extreme edits
- Edge clarity: Keep edges sharp for clean cutouts
Sharpen and reduce noise
- Sharpen selectively: Avoid noise amplification
- Reduce noise: Improve clarity for AI
- Mid-tone clarity: Avoid halos or fringing
The takeaway
By applying these best practices—from file settings to lighting, backgrounds, camera use, and editing—you’ll improve your AI extractions and reduce errors. Where needed, human verification services like 36Pix offer an extra layer of precision.