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# Uploading Reference Images

Add visual references to explain your tattoo idea. Choose clear images that you have permission to share.

## Before you start

These steps describe **Reference Photos** in the mobile web tattoo-request form.
Complete the contact and tattoo-detail steps first. Other upload screens can have different limits.

## Add or remove a reference

1. On **Reference Photos**, choose the image upload control.
2. Select a JPEG, PNG, or WebP file up to **5 MB**. Check that the intended image appears in the preview.

3. Use the remove control if you picked the wrong file or its preview failed.

   ![A failed reference preview retains its remove control.](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/b/6/b/f/b6bf11da1ce5e000/uploading-reference-images-ste_b3g8in.png)

   This example shows a failed preview, not a successful upload.
4. Choose **Next** and check the attached-image count in **Review & Confirm**.
5. Submit the request once. Wait for **Request Sent** before assuming the request was received.

A preview means the form has selected the image. It does not prove the upload reached the artist.
Check that your artist can see the reference after the request is received.

## If an image will not upload

- Check the file type and size against the limits on that upload screen.
- If the form says it could not prepare your photos, return to the photo step and remove the affected file.
- When photos are optional, you can continue without them. Let the artist know that the references were not attached.
- If submission may have succeeded, check the existing request before creating another.

Describe what matters in each reference—such as the subject, placement, or shading—in your request description.

## Related articles

- [How to Submit a Tattoo Request](https://help.useapprentice.com/en/article/how-to-submit-a-tattoo-request-wohzw0/)
- [Collaborating with Your Artist on Designs](https://help.useapprentice.com/en/article/collaborating-with-your-artist-on-designs-10n99am/)