Photo quality is the single biggest factor in identification accuracy. The AI works on the visual signal it can extract — sharper, well-lit images with the set as the clear subject produce noticeably better results.
Lighting
Natural daylight is best. Set up near a window during the day, with the light coming from the side rather than directly behind you (which casts shadows from your hands or phone). Avoid direct overhead lighting, which flattens colours and erases detail.
If you must use indoor lighting, switch on multiple light sources to reduce harsh shadows. Avoid the camera flash on a phone — it usually washes out colours and creates reflections off shiny LEGO surfaces.
Background
Use a plain background that contrasts with the set. A wood table, a single-coloured sheet of paper, or a clean countertop all work well. Avoid:
- Backgrounds with other LEGO scattered around (the AI may try to identify multiple sets at once).
- Patterned tablecloths or busy carpets.
- Backgrounds with the same colour as the set's dominant colour (a red set on a red background is harder to detect).
Framing
Capture the full set when possible. The AI uses overall structure as a key signal. If you can only photograph a section, prioritize:
- Distinctive printed parts (stickers and printed tiles are very identifying).
- Minifigures, especially licensed-character minifigures.
- Unique vehicle or structure shapes.
Angle and distance
Shoot from a slight angle (15–30 degrees above horizontal) rather than straight overhead or perfectly level. This shows three faces of the build and gives the AI more shape information to work with.
Hold the camera 30–60 cm (1–2 feet) from the set. Too close and the AI loses overall context. Too far and small details disappear.
Focus and steadiness
Make sure the photo is sharp before uploading. Rest your phone on a stable surface or use both hands. If your photo is blurry, retake it before uploading — a blurry photo never identifies as well as a sharp one, even when the subject is the same.