Step 2 · Capture and consistency·Set camera, distance, and lightPTEN
Source photos for a realistic avatar

Set camera, distance, and light

Remove lens distortion and warm overhead light before the first shot.

Primary source
Local video analysis and timestamp selection

Every recommendation in this course comes from the video, contact sheets, and eight extracted frames.

Read and test the interactive blocks.
1

Control perspective

The camera should observe the face, not invade it. For portraits, use a short telephoto equivalent to 50–85 mm, eye-level placement, and enough distance. On the iPhone 13 Pro Max used for the video, prefer 3× in good light; otherwise use 1× from farther away and crop later.

Think of hearing a voice from too close. The information remains true, but proximity exaggerates some parts.

2

The four setup controls

eye level1.5–2.5 msoft lightplain backdrop
Eye level + 1.5–2.5 m + soft light + plain backdrop.
2.0 m
Preferred range: 1.5–2.5 m for head and shoulders.
3

Repeatable setup

capture card
portrait_lens: 50-85mm_eq
iphone_13_pro_max: 3x_good_light_or_1x_farther
camera_height: eye_level
distance: 1.5-2.5m
portrait_mode: off
filters: off
light: soft_neutral
TipUse a timer and tripod to remove shake.
WarningTurn off warm overhead lighting.
4

Setup test

Which combination best reduces distortion?
A short telephoto with more distance preserves proportions. Ultra-wide proximity exaggerates perspective; portrait mode may mis-segment hair and beard.