3D Photo Crystal FAQ — Photo Requirements & Proofing Guide

3D Photo Crystal FAQ

Everything you need to know to get a stunning result — from submitting your photo to the moment your crystal arrives.

Photo Requirements

What file formats do you accept?

We accept JPEG (.jpg / .jpeg), PNG (.png), and TIFF (.tif / .tiff) files. JPEG is the most common and works great for most photos. PNG is ideal if you need a transparent background. Please do not send screenshots, heavily compressed social-media downloads, or files from messaging apps — these typically lack sufficient resolution.

What is the minimum resolution?

Your photo should be at least 800 × 800 pixels for small crystals, and 1500 × 1500 pixels or higher for medium and large crystals. The face or main subject should occupy a significant portion of the frame — avoid crops where the subject is very small within a wide scene. When in doubt, send the highest-resolution original you have; we will resize as needed without losing quality.

Lighting & Focus

What makes a photo light well inside the crystal?

Our laser engraves thousands of microscopic points inside the glass. Photos with clear, even lighting and good contrast between the subject and background produce the sharpest results. Ideal conditions:

  • Natural window light or soft diffused light on the face
  • Avoid harsh direct flash, which flattens features and creates hot spots
  • Avoid heavy shadows that cross the face or subject
  • Dark or blurred backgrounds help the subject stand out beautifully

Does the photo need to be perfectly in focus?

Yes — sharp focus is essential. Blurry, motion-blurred, or heavily filtered images cannot be improved in processing and will produce a soft engraving. The subject's eyes (for portraits) or the main detail (for pets, objects) must be in crisp focus. If you are unsure about a photo, upload it and our team will advise you before any work begins.

Single vs. Group Subjects

Can I submit a photo with multiple people or pets?

Absolutely. Group photos work well on our larger crystal sizes (medium, large, and XL). For best results:

  • Choose a photo where all subjects are clearly visible and in focus
  • Ensure everyone's face is fully unobscured — no one looking away, cut off at the edge, or hidden behind another person
  • A horizontal orientation often works best for groups of three or more

For single subjects, a close portrait-style crop with the subject centered gives the most impactful result on any crystal size.

What about pets?

Pets engrave beautifully. Use a photo taken at eye level with the animal, with natural light and sharp focus on the eyes. Avoid photos taken from above where the pet is looking down.

AI Preview & Approval Process

How do I create a preview?

Upload your photo on the product page, add your personalization and any instructions, then select AI Preview. The AI-generated image helps you visualize your personalized crystal. It is a visual guide, not an exact guarantee of the finished laser-etched result.

What should I choose after viewing the AI preview?

  • Excellent (Please use): Choose this if you are happy with the preview and want us to use it. Our artists will always review it. If you choose Excellent, we do not always send a separate preview before engraving.
  • Not Bad (Adjust - see my instructions): Choose this if you would like changes, and describe the adjustments in the instructions field.
  • Not even Close (Ignore the preview): Choose this if the AI preview does not reflect what you want. Provide instructions so our artists know what you have in mind.

Will I receive a separate proof before engraving?

A separate proof is not automatically sent for every order. If you select Excellent (Please use), our artists will review your selection, and your order may proceed without another preview. If you would like a separate proof, request one in your order instructions or contact us at [email protected].

What if I receive a separate proof?

Review the crop, subject positioning, and personalization carefully. Reply with your approval or specific changes. Please respond within 2 business days of receiving your proof.

The Final Laser-Engraved Result

What does the engraving actually look like inside the crystal?

The result is a three-dimensional subsurface engraving — your image is rendered as thousands of tiny fracture points inside the solid glass or crystal. When light enters the crystal, it scatters through these points to create a glowing, dimensional portrait. The effect is subtle and elegant in ambient light, and dramatically luminous when placed on an illuminated base.

Is the engraving colored?

The engraving itself is clear-to-white — the glass points refract light rather than hold ink or pigment. Color comes entirely from your illuminated base (see below). The image has a classic, timeless look reminiscent of fine crystal art.

Illuminated Base - Highly Recommended!

Does the crystal come with a light base?

Most of our 3D crystals include or are available with an LED illuminated base. Check the product listing for your specific crystal — bundle options and color-cycling bases are available as add-ons. The base uses USB power and is compatible with any standard USB-A adapter or power bank.

What color settings does the base offer?

Bases vary by model. Standard bases cycle through 7 colors (red, green, blue, yellow, cyan, magenta, white) or can be set to a single steady color. Premium bases offer remote-controlled color selection and brightness adjustment. Specific base features are listed on each product page.

Packaging & Delivery

How is the crystal packaged for shipping?

Every crystal ships in a premium gift box with foam-lined inserts custom-fitted to the crystal shape. This protects against transit damage and makes the unboxing experience gift-ready — no additional gift wrapping is needed unless you prefer it. The illuminated base (if included) ships in the same box.

Can I ship directly to the gift recipient?

Yes. At checkout, simply enter the recipient's shipping address. We do not include any invoices or pricing inside the box.

Getting Help

I'm not sure if my photo will work. What should I do?

Send us your photo before ordering and we will give you an honest assessment — no obligation. Use the Contact Us page or email us directly. We would rather spend a few minutes on a quick photo review than have you disappointed with the result.

What if I'm unhappy with the finished crystal?

Customer satisfaction is our priority. If there is a defect in the engraving or damage from shipping, we will replace the crystal at no charge. Because each crystal is custom-made, we are unable to offer refunds for change-of-mind after production has begun. Please reach out through our Contact Us page and we will make it right.