Submitting Photos

Taking and submitting quality verification photos is essential to earning points in Michigan Spots. This guide will help you capture the perfect shots and successfully submit them for approval.

Photo Requirements

What Makes a Valid Photo

Your verification photo must:

Clearly show the location described in the spot details
Include identifiable features mentioned in the description
Prove you were actually there at the correct location
Be taken by you during your visit (no stock photos or old images)
Meet quality standards for clarity and composition

Technical Requirements

Resolution: Minimum 1080p (most modern phones exceed this)
Format: JPEG or PNG files
File size: Under 10MB per photo
Orientation: Any orientation is acceptable
Editing: Light editing is okay, but don’t alter the core content

Taking Great Verification Photos

Before You Shoot

Study the Example Photos

Match the perspective shown in the spot’s example images
Identify key landmarks that should be visible in your photo
Note the time of day when example photos were taken
Consider seasonal differences that might affect your shot

Plan Your Shot

Read the description carefully to understand what to capture
Look for specific features mentioned in the text
Consider multiple angles to ensure you get the best shot
Check lighting conditions and adjust timing if needed

Photography Tips

Composition Guidelines

Fill the frame with the important elements
Include context that helps identify the location
Avoid clutter that distracts from the main subject
Use the rule of thirds for more engaging compositions

Technical Settings

Focus properly - tap your screen to focus on the main subject
Steady your phone - use both hands or brace against something
Check exposure - make sure the image isn’t too dark or bright
Clean your lens - smudges can ruin an otherwise perfect photo

Lighting Considerations

Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) often provides the best lighting
Avoid harsh midday sun that creates strong shadows
Use natural light whenever possible
Consider weather - overcast days provide even lighting

Common Photo Scenarios

Historic Markers and Plaques

Get close enough to read any text clearly
Include surrounding context to show the location
Avoid glare from reflective surfaces
Capture the entire marker plus some background

Natural Features

Show scale by including recognizable objects
Capture unique characteristics that identify the specific location
Consider seasonal changes in vegetation or water levels
Include multiple angles if the feature is complex

Buildings and Architecture

Show distinctive features mentioned in the description
Include street signs or addresses when relevant
Capture architectural details that make the building unique
Consider the building’s relationship to surrounding structures

Street Art and Murals

Photograph the entire artwork when possible
Include surrounding context like building walls or streets
Avoid people blocking the main subject
Capture colors accurately - avoid heavy filters

The Submission Process

In-App Photo Submission

Step-by-Step Process

Navigate to the spot you want to claim
Tap “I’m Here” or the camera button
Take your photo using the in-app camera
Review your image before submitting
Add optional caption or notes
Submit for review

Using Existing Photos

If you already have a good photo:

Select “Choose from Gallery” option
Pick your best image from your phone’s photos
Confirm it meets requirements
Add any necessary context in the caption
Submit for approval

Photo Review Process

What Happens Next

Automated screening checks basic requirements
Human review verifies location accuracy
Approval notification sent when accepted
Points awarded to your account
Feedback provided if rejected

Review Timeline

Most photos are reviewed within 2-4 hours
Complex locations may take up to 24 hours
Peak times (weekends, evenings) may have longer waits
Holidays may extend review times

Improving Photo Approval Rates

Common Rejection Reasons

Location Issues

Wrong location - photo doesn’t match the spot description
Insufficient proof - can’t verify you were actually there
Missing key features - important landmarks not visible
Unclear perspective - photo doesn’t show the location clearly

Quality Problems

Too blurry - image is out of focus or motion-blurred
Poor lighting - too dark, too bright, or heavily shadowed
Obstructed view - important elements blocked by objects or people
Wrong orientation - photo doesn’t match expected viewpoint

Technical Issues

File corruption - image didn’t upload properly
Wrong format - unsupported file type
Too small - resolution below minimum requirements
Heavily edited - photo appears manipulated or filtered

Tips for Higher Approval Rates

Preparation

Visit during good weather when possible
Bring backup power for your phone
Check spot details one more time before shooting
Have alternative angles ready if your first shot doesn’t work

Execution

Take multiple shots from different angles
Include clear landmarks mentioned in the description
Ensure good lighting on important features
Double-check focus before moving on

Submission

Choose your best photo from multiple options
Add helpful captions that explain what you’re showing
Submit promptly while you’re still at the location
Keep backup photos in case you need to resubmit

Advanced Photography Techniques

Challenging Lighting Situations

Low Light Photography

Use your phone’s night mode if available
Brace your phone against a stable surface
Increase exposure slightly in your camera app
Consider using flash for close-up subjects

Bright Sunlight

Find shade when photographing people or details
Use HDR mode to balance bright and dark areas
Position yourself to avoid harsh shadows
Wait for clouds to diffuse harsh sunlight

Indoor Locations

Use available window light when possible
Avoid mixing light sources (fluorescent + natural)
Turn on all available lights for even illumination
Get close to your subject to maximize available light

Creative Approaches

Unique Perspectives

Try different heights - crouch down or find elevation
Use leading lines to draw attention to your subject
Include foreground elements for depth and context
Experiment with symmetry and patterns

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: Capture emerging flowers and fresh green growth
Summer: Use abundant natural light and lush vegetation
Fall: Showcase colorful foliage and harvest themes
Winter: Embrace snow and ice for dramatic contrast

Troubleshooting Photo Issues

Technical Problems

App Issues

Camera won’t open: Restart the app and try again
Photo won’t upload: Check your internet connection
Submission failed: Try submitting again or contact support
Wrong photo selected: Delete and resubmit the correct image

Phone Problems

Storage full: Delete old photos to make space
Camera malfunction: Restart your phone or use a different camera app
Poor GPS signal: Move to an area with better reception
Battery dying: Use power-saving mode or find a charger

Quality Improvements

If Your Photos Keep Getting Rejected

Study approved examples more carefully
Ask for specific feedback from support or community
Practice photography basics with non-challenge photos
Visit easier spots first to build confidence

Getting Better Results

Learn from successful submissions by other players
Join photography discussions in the community
Experiment with different techniques during practice visits
Ask experienced players for tips and advice

Photo Ethics and Guidelines

Respectful Photography

Respect private property and posted restrictions
Don’t disturb wildlife or natural environments
Be considerate of other visitors at popular locations
Follow all local rules and regulations

Safety Considerations

Stay aware of your surroundings while focusing on photography
Don’t take risks for the sake of a photo
Inform someone of your plans when visiting remote areas
Carry emergency supplies for longer photo expeditions

Community Standards

Share knowledge about great photo opportunities
Help other players improve their photography skills
Celebrate others’ successes and great photos
Report issues with inappropriate or problematic content

Remember, great photos not only help you earn points but also inspire other players and showcase the beauty of Michigan. Take pride in your photography and enjoy capturing the amazing places you discover!