Case Study | Multi Face Photo Upload

Case Study | Multi Face Photo Upload

Overview

In this Case Study article, we will look at a fun take on photo upload to create a unique 'multi-face design'. This is achieved by randomly placing and layering multiple configured image areas. In this particular example, we will be creating a Virtual Product from a Blank Phone Case, but it can be applied to any Blank Product.

Photo-Upload products are strong sellers. CPP's tool-set allows you to capitalise on this by creating fun, innovative products!

This article will presume that you have familiarity with CPP and creating Virtual Products, specifically in relation to Image Area functionality. Before going any further, it would be best to go through the short Level 1 Level 2 and Level 3 Tutorials relating to IMAGE AREAS:

What do I need?

> Access to a Blank Product - You may have created your own on CPP, or you may have access to a Suppliers products

> An Image Area Mask (or you can download ours which is attached!)

Please note: Image masks should be print resolution / high quality and in PNG format with transparency.

How does it work?

Lets take a look at the Key steps in setting Multi Face functionality. Conceptually, there is 1 image area that serves as the input, and multiple duplicates that all sync from it. This means that the end user (customer) only interacts directly with 1 area, which makes for a nice and simple user experience.

The Image Areas will be placed into layers based on face size - largest on the bottom layer, smallest on the top most layer. 

1. Create the Virtual using the Manual Option




2. Configure Your Main Image Area

  • Add an Image Area with a relevant name eg Add Your Face!
  • The Image Area size should match the Aspect Ratio of the Mask that you intend to upload - our mask is 138mm x 196mm, so we will set 138x196 pixels to ensure matching AR.
    • Once AR matches we can uniformly scale the Image Area to whatever size looks good for our largest face.
  • Change the Z-Index to 1


  • Upload a placeholder image of a face - this will allow you to preview your design as you go.
  • Upload the Mask
  • Set User Input Validation to Required - this forces the customer to add their image before they can Add to Cart.



3. Duplicate your Layer 1 Image Areas

  • Duplicate your main Image Area, and Name it 'Layer 1'.
  • You need to reconfigure this area:
    • Remove user input and all interactive controls

    • Remove User Input Required Validation - this is important!
    • On the Synchronisation menu, click to synchronise from the main Image Area; Add Your Face.
    • Place the Image Area somewhere else on the product.

    • Now that this is configured it can be used as a base for all Layer 1 duplications.
  • Duplicate the reconfigured area multiple times and position randomly to cover the product.
  • Be sure to print test to view your progress - you should have something that looks like this:



4. Duplicate your Layer 2 Image Areas

  • Once you are happy with your Layer 1 layout, duplicate the Image Area once more. You need to reconfigure this area as a base for Layer 2:
    • Reduce the image area size and position
    • Set the Z-Index to 2, this ensures that these smaller images will sit on top of all Layer 1 images.


  • Repeat the duplication to add all of Layer 2 Areas that you wish. You should end up with something like this:


  1. You can repeat this same process to add a further layers of smaller images if you wish.



  1. You can also tweak sizing and positions on a per area basis if you want more variation!



Here is an example link of the product from this Case Study:

Give it a go and have fun!!!