Photo quality has a direct effect on AI-assisted inventory entry. A sharp, well-lit side view is usually more useful than a dramatic layout photo.
Use Photo-First Entry
- Open
/app/asset-management/add/photo-first. - Upload or take photos.
- Choose a primary photo.
- Label each angle when possible.
- Run AI processing.
- Review and correct the suggested fields before saving.
Lighting
Use bright, even light. Indirect daylight near a window works well. A desk lamp or photo lightbox also works if it does not create glare.
Avoid:
- Strong flash reflections.
- Deep shadows under the sill or trucks.
- Mixed light sources that shift color.
- Dark layout corners.
Framing
The most useful photo is a level side view with the entire model visible.
Include:
- Road name.
- Reporting mark.
- Road number.
- Livery details.
- Body shape.
- Enough margin around the item so nothing is cropped.
For long passenger cars, large locomotives, or articulated equipment, add extra views.
Focus
Blurry markings are the most common reason AI suggestions become weak.
- Tap to focus on the model.
- Brace your elbows or use a small tripod.
- Check that the reporting mark and road number are readable before uploading.
- Retake photos if the camera focused on scenery or background instead of the model.
Useful Angles
Use as many as you have time for:
- Left side.
- Right side.
- Front.
- Rear.
- Top or roof.
- Close-up of builder plates, labels, decoder markings, damage, or unique details.
The photo-first page supports orientation labels so the AI and later viewers know what each photo shows.
Background
A plain background helps the system separate the item from the scene.
- Use white, gray, or black poster board.
- Remove clutter from the frame.
- Avoid track, scenery, and other rolling stock when documenting one item.
- Use a contrasting background for black or very dark equipment.