How to Pick a Good Photo For Your Custom Paint By Number Kit. Choosing the perfect photo for your custom paint-by-number kit can make a huge difference in the final look and feel of your artwork! This guide will help you select a photo that will turn into a masterpiece, making your paint by number project enjoyable and rewarding. Let’s take a look at 8 tips to consider when picking that picture-perfect photo!

1. Choose a Clear, High-Resolution Image

Resolution matters! A high-quality image ensures that the details are clear and will translate well into a paint by number format. Look for a photo with good lighting and minimal blurriness. Generally, an image with at least 1,000 pixels on the shortest side is a good starting point.

Tip: Avoid photos that are overly pixelated or dark. These may lose detail when converted into numbered sections.

2. Select a Simple Composition

While intricate photos are beautiful, simpler images tend to work best for paint by numbers. Avoid overly busy backgrounds or too many small details, as these can make it difficult to distinguish between colors and sections. A clean, well-composed image will make painting more enjoyable and lead to a stunning final piece.

Ideal Subjects:

• Portraits with close-up faces
• Pet photos with a clear background
• Scenic landscapes that aren’t too cluttered

3. Look for Strong Contrast

Photos with high contrast—where dark and light areas are distinctly separated—are ideal for a paint-by-number kit. Strong contrast helps in creating depth and dimension, making it easier to distinguish different sections and add visual impact to your artwork.

Examples:

• A pet with a dark coat against a light background
• A sunset where the sky contrasts sharply with the landscape

4. Opt for Vibrant Colors

Vibrant colors tend to translate beautifully in paint-by-number kits, bringing the artwork to life. If you want your painting to pop, choose a photo with a range of colors, especially for subjects like flowers, landscapes, or even pet fur that has various shades.

5. Consider the Size of Your Kit

If you’re working with a smaller-sized kit, like a 12×16 inch canvas, go for a photo with fewer, larger details. For larger canvases, you can use photos with more intricate elements. The size of the kit will affect how much detail you can capture, so match the complexity of the image to your canvas size.

6. Choose a Photo with Emotional Value

One of the biggest draws of a custom paint-by-number kit is the personal connection you have with the subject. Whether it’s a favorite family photo, a picture of a beloved pet, or a memorable vacation spot, select an image that has emotional value to make the experience even more special.

7. Check the Lighting and Shadows

Good lighting can make all the difference. Photos with natural, balanced lighting and well defined shadows often look better in paint by number form, as they add depth without making the colors look muddy or dull.

Avoid: Photos with harsh shadows or glare, as these can lead to confusing sections that are hard to paint.

8. Pay Attention to Facial Features in Portraits

For portraits, especially close-ups, choose images where facial features are clear and well-lit. Avoid images where the face is shadowed or obscured, as small details like the eyes, mouth, and nose might be difficult to paint clearly if they’re not well-defined in the original image.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right photo for a custom paint-by-number kit isn’t just about picking a favorite image—it’s about selecting one that will transform well into numbered sections, creating a beautiful and enjoyable painting experience. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to turning a cherished photo into a unique work of art that you can display and enjoy for years to come!

Are you ready to personalize your photo into a paint by number? Head on over to our Customized Paint By Number collection and order yours today