Common Image Upload Issues and How to Fix Them

Short Summary

This article explains common image upload problems and how to fix them before placing an order.

Quick Answer

Common upload problems include unsupported file types, files above the upload limits, CMYK color mode, damaged files, low resolution for the selected size, and unstable connections. Guests and signed-in customers have the same artwork upload options. Supported layered RGB TIFFs are prepared automatically from their saved combined image; your original stays unchanged. Follow the specific upload message, then review the preview before ordering.

Before You Begin

• Use JPEG, PNG, or TIFF for the standard upload flow.
• Use RGB color mode instead of CMYK.
• Keep the original file, then upload an exported copy.
• Use a desktop computer if a large file keeps failing on mobile.

How It Works

Issue 1: Unsupported file format

PSD, AI, InDesign, PDF, and many raw camera formats are not supported by the standard product uploader. Export the artwork as JPEG, PNG, or TIFF, then upload the exported file.

Issue 2: CMYK file blocked

CMYK files may be rejected by the upload system. Convert the file to RGB using How to Convert Your File from CMYK to RGB.

Issue 3: HEIC or phone photo trouble

If a phone photo does not upload cleanly or previews incorrectly, convert it to JPEG using How to Convert HEIC to JPEG.

Issue 4: File is too large

Artwork uploads must be no larger than 1 GB, 324 megapixels, or 18,000 pixels on either side. If your file exceeds a limit, export a smaller copy while keeping enough pixels for the print size.

Issue 5: Image quality is too low for the selected size

The selected crop may not have enough pixels for the print size. Choose a smaller print size, select a larger crop area, or upload a higher-resolution file.

Issue 6: Transparent or corrupted image

Supported transparent RGB images are accepted. Transparent areas appear white in the preview; fully transparent areas show the paper color in print because we do not print white ink. Re-export corrupted or malformed files from your editing app. If a layered TIFF cannot be prepared, export a flattened RGB copy and upload it.

Important Notes

• A no-color-profile warning is not always a blocker, but embedding an RGB profile can help reduce unexpected color shifts.
• If the issue happens in one browser, try a current version of Chrome or Safari and turn off aggressive privacy, ad-blocking, or script-blocking extensions for the upload attempt.
• Do not keep retrying the same broken export if the uploader gives the same error. Re-export from the original file first.
• If you contact support, include the exact error message and a screenshot.

Examples

Example 1: A CMYK TIFF will not upload

Open the file in your editing app, convert it to RGB, save a new TIFF or JPEG, then upload the new file.

Example 2: A phone photo uploads sideways or fails

Export the image as a JPEG from Photos or Preview, then upload the JPEG instead of the original phone format.

Example 3: A large scan times out

Export a flattened JPEG or TIFF at the needed print size, confirm the file is under 1 GB, and upload again from a stable connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my file upload but show a warning?

Some warnings are informational. For example, a missing color profile warning means colors may shift, but it may not stop the upload.

Can support upload the file for me?

In most cases, customers should upload through the product page so the crop, size, material, and cart details stay connected. Contact support if the uploader is blocking a file you believe is ready.

Can I send a layered file instead?

Supported single-image, 8-bit or 16-bit RGB TIFFs with a saved combined image are accepted. We prepare a separate print copy, keep your original unchanged, and ask you to review the preview. We do not reconstruct missing composites or accept PSD, AI, or other unsupported formats. If preparation fails, upload a flattened RGB TIFF, PNG, or JPEG copy.

Related Articles

• How to Upload Your Files
• How to Prepare Your Image Files for Printing
• How to Convert Your File from CMYK to RGB
• How to Convert HEIC to JPEG
• How to Check Your Image Resolution

Need More Help?

If you still need assistance, submit a Help Center request with the product page, file type, approximate file size, browser/device, error message, and screenshot.