---
title: "Next Gen: Best Practices for consistent scaling and lighting"
description: "Get consistent scaling and lighting for Next Gen virtual group photos: use a tripod, a fixed 50 mm focal length, floor marks, and a repeatable lighting setup."
---
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October 26, 2026
# Next Gen: Best Practices for consistent scaling and lighting
**Table of contents**
- [Overview](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#Overview)
- [Tripod](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#Tripod)
- [No zooming](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#NoZooming)
- [Hit the mark](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#HitTheMark)
- [Consistent lighting](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#ConsistentLighting)
- [The takeaway](https://help.gotphoto.com/en/support/next-gen-best-practices-for-consistent-scaling-and-lighting#The-takeaway)
### **Overview**
Inconsistent scaling or lighting is immediately noticeable in a virtual group photo. With proper **lighting, scaling, and perspective**, you can ensure professional-looking results every time. This guide covers the essential steps for a flawless photo day setup.
---
### **Tripod**
- Lock your camera on a tripod to prevent movement between shots.
- Stabilization simplifies your workflow and reduces manual adjustments.
### **No zooming**
- Use a fixed 50 mm lens for consistency. If using a telephoto lens, zoom to 50 mm and tape it to prevent accidental adjustments.
- Shoot full-length photos and let the design team crop as needed. Do not crop in-camera.
### **Hit the mark**
- Frame the background and set up for the tallest subject to avoid repositioning the camera mid-shoot.
- Use clear floor marks so every subject stands at the same distance from the camera.
- Match floor marks to the background color for seamless results.
- Measure and record the backdrop distance and tripod height so the setup can be replicated on future shoot days, including makeup days (retakes).
### **Consistent lighting**
- Use a light meter to check subject and background exposure.
- **Optional:** Create a custom white balance if you are not using a color correction service.
- Keep your lighting setup consistent across all shots.
- Record light positions and heights for repeatable setups.
- Avoid changing modifiers or light direction, as this breaks consistency between players.
- If multiple stations are used, assign each team to one station to avoid mixing lighting differences.
The setup diagram below shows the subject standing 24 inches in front of the backdrop. The camera-to-subject distance does not change between images. The photo on the right shows the result: two players scaled and lit consistently.
 
### **The takeaway**
To shoot consistent virtual group photos, follow four key steps: mount your camera on a tripod, use a fixed 50 mm focal length, define and mark subject positions on the floor, and maintain a consistent lighting setup. These practices ensure accurate scaling, uniform exposure, and compositing-ready images every time.
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