The Faces in the Film Do Not Look Right? Here Is What to Do

When you make a film for your family, the faces are the first thing everyone looks at. Grandma will check that the grandchild looks like the grandchild, and Mom will check that the smile is familiar. So it helps to know in advance what to do when something does not look right. The good news is that there is something to do.

How do you spot faces that do not look right?

Watch the film all the way through, without stopping. Then watch it again, and ask about each photo: does this look like the person? Are the eyes, the smile and the overall shape familiar? If something feels strange, write down which photo it is and what bothered you.

It also helps to ask a close relative to watch. Someone who knows the person well spots small differences quickly. And if no one notices anything, it is probably fine and there is nothing to fix.

One more thing that helps: watch on a big screen. On a small screen it is easy to miss details, and when the film is shown at an event, those details will appear large. If you plan to show it, check the film at the size it will be shown.

What do you do when the face in one photo does not look right?

The rule is to start with the easy step: try again. Only if that does not help, swap the photo. That way you do not give up a photo you love without a reason.

How do you try another version?

1. Watch and mark. Write down which photo does not look right.

2. Ask for another version. Each try can look a little different from the last.

3. Compare. Watch both versions and choose the one that looks better.

4. If needed, repeat. Extra tries are included, depending on the package.

There is no need to worry about a small difference. It is part of the process, which is why extra tries exist. And notice: if several versions look the same, that is a sign to move to the next step rather than keep trying.

When should you swap the photo, and how do you choose a better one?

If several versions look the same, the problem is usually the photo itself. Swap it for another photo of the same person. A better photo is the surest way to a better result. Photo swaps are included, depending on the package.

Here is how to choose a photo with clear faces:

• Sharp faces. A blurry photo gives a weaker result.
• Good light. Faces in harsh shadow are harder to keep.
• Faces big enough. A close photo suits better than a distant group shot.
• A look toward the camera. A photo showing the face from the front works better.
• An old photo? Scan it well. The article on scanning with a phone explains how.

If you have many photos and do not know which to pick, the article on organizing family photos can help.

Should you choose a different kind of film?

Sometimes the question is not the photo but the kind of film. A growing-up film follows one person over the years, so that person's face comes back again and again and is seen up close. A memories film moves between people and moments. If faces matter most to you, it is worth thinking about which one suits you. The article on the difference between a growing-up film and a memories film has a comparison.

The film is built from the photos you upload, so the quality of the photos affects the result. Choose good photos, and watch the film carefully before you send it to the whole family. On the growing-up video page you can see an example.

Frequently asked questions