Image Optimization Secrets: Maximize Your Pet’s Visual ELO Score

The first impression is everything in a vote-based competition. While our algorithm is designed to be fair, the human eye naturally favors clarity, composition, and emotional connection. Here are our top tips for submitting photos that captivate voters.

💡 Lighting is King

Avoid harsh shadows and overly bright spots. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) provides the softest, most flattering light. If shooting indoors, position your pet near a large window, facing the light source, to ensure their eyes are bright and in focus.

🖼️ The Rule of Thirds

Apply the basic photography principle: the Rule of Thirds. Don't always center your pet. Positioning their face or eyes slightly off-center creates a more dynamic and engaging image that voters find visually appealing.

🚫 Minimize Distractions

A cluttered background detracts from your pet. Use a simple, neutral background (like a plain wall, or a natural outdoor setting with shallow depth of field) so the focus remains entirely on your beautiful pet. Pets photographed against busy rugs or messy rooms tend to receive lower scores.

Remember: You don't need a professional camera; modern smartphones are more than capable when paired with great light and composition.