Frequently Asked Questions
While all relevant information can be found in our Next Gen help center articles, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions. Each includes links to more detailed guides.
What is the Next Gen turnaround time?
Turnaround times vary by job size. To set the right expectations with your league, check the turnaround timetable on nextgenphotosolutions.com. Details are also available in the Next Gen Workflow article (section 8).
Can I preview the checkout and selection page before submitting a real job?
Absolutely! Try our interactive checkout walkthrough. You can also find it in the Next Gen Workflow overview.
How many images can I send to Next Gen per athlete?
Full Composite jobs allow up to 6 images (1 team + 5 individual). Traditional and Traditional+ jobs are limited to 5 individual images. More info here: Full Composite and Traditional jobs.
Do team images need to be uploaded to GotPhoto before sending to Next Gen?
No, team images can be included directly in your editing request and will be synced back automatically. More info here.
Do team images get turned into graphics?
No, team images are only used for the team image output. If you want one used as a graphic, photograph it separately as an individual. Learn more in section 2.
Can I use my own templates or only choose from Next Gen's?
Next Gen offers hundreds of customizable templates, and you can add your own by submitting PSD files and proof of purchase. Setup via a third-party service is about $50 per template. Learn more in section 7.
Do I need individual access codes for each athlete?
Yes, each subject must have a unique access code for Next Gen submissions.
Do pricing bundles include team images?
No, bundles cover individual images only. Team images are priced separately. Details here.
If I submit a Help Request, will the new graphics flow into GotPhoto?
No, graphics from Help Requests are returned via Google Drive and must be manually uploaded to GotPhoto. Validate data upfront to minimize post-job edits. More info here.
Can I multi-tag buddy images before sending to Next Gen?
No, multi-tagging is not currently supported. Tag one athlete first and manually add others after processing. More details here (section 2).
Can I add color correction to my Next Gen order?
Yes, you can include color correction at checkout for $0.20 per image. Instructions in section 7.
How many images can I submit per individual?
Next Gen accepts up to six images per individual (one team and 5 individual images). Any images beyond that will not be transmitted.
What should I do if I have more than six images?
The system is built for six images per subject. Workarounds (like “makeup day” entries) aren’t recommended, as they can cause issues. Expansion beyond six is being considered for the future.
What’s the difference between 3/4 crop and full-length templates?
3/4 crop templates frame from the waist up. Full-length templates include drop shadow and reflection options, which are required.
What are the recommendations for button graphics?
Parents usually crop the 4x5 graphics themselves. For specific button graphics, request a 55 or 55T file and place those images into a separate album pointed at a button price profile to restrict the use of these graphics to only that product type.
How do I upload multiple reference photos?
Zip multiple reference photos before upload if individual uploads aren’t possible.
How do I use multiple logos?
Only one logo can be uploaded at check-out; additional logos must be manually added by the production team during proofing. Simply notate where you'd like to log to show up using the markup tool and upload your secondary logo directly into the proofing software.
What’s the difference between custom backgrounds and custom templates?
Custom backgrounds can be uploaded at no cost using one of the provided design skins. Custom templates require setup through Off-the-Trail Graphics for a one-time fee and stay permanently in your account.
Can I sell PNGs with different backgrounds?
Yes. PNGs returned from NextGen can be sold with different backgrounds if green screen options are set in the price profile.
How do I submit missed kids after a job is uploaded?
Requests must be made via a help request. If many kids are missing, you may need to provide a full roster with image and team details. This is why it is very important to check the validation page thoroughly prior to submitting your job to ensure all coaches and athletes make it into production. Fixes after submission will cause delays in your job.
What is the special request field for?
It’s meant for short notes about specialized posing, not for redesigning templates or long instructions. Misuse can cause delays in your turnaround times.
How can I customize a Next Gen template?
For a one-time template setup in your account, contact Kodi at offthetrailgraphics.com.(approx. $30 fee). This avoids repeated requests and job slowdowns.
Can I order individual banners (like senior banners) through help requests?
No. Individual banner orders are no longer accepted via help requests due to missing details and billing issues. Please order all individual banners through your Next Gen account at nextgenalacarte.com.
Can I send horizontal images to Next Gen?
No. All Next Gen graphics are designed for vertical images only. Horizontal images cannot be processed through the service. Any horizontal images submitted will be ignored and will not be returned.