How to Photograph Your Cup for an Online Coffee Reading

Quick Photo Checklist

• White or light cup interior.
• Bright, indirect light.
• Handle included in every orientation shot.
• One overhead and at least three side angles.
• No filters, flash glare or digital blur.

Prepare the Cup

Let excess liquid drain before moving the cup. Lift it carefully and avoid scraping, wiping or rearranging the grounds. Place it on a plain surface.

Choose Good Lighting

Window light is usually best. Avoid strong direct sun and overhead reflections. If the cup is dark inside, move closer to the light rather than using a harsh flash.

Photograph the Essential Angles

1. One full overhead view showing the entire interior.
2. One view centered on the handle side.
3. One view of the opposite wall.
4. One view of each remaining side.
5. An optional saucer image if grounds transferred to it.

Focus and Resolution

Tap the inside wall on your phone screen to focus. Hold steady, fill most of the frame with the cup and check that fine lines remain visible before uploading.

Show the Handle

The handle anchors position and direction. If it falls outside the frame, the reader cannot reliably tell which symbols are close to you or opposite you.

Photos to Avoid

• Only one distant image.
• Beauty filters or edited contrast.
• Flash glare hiding the grounds.
• A cup moved after some photos were taken.
• Hands or objects covering the rim.

Privacy Before Uploading

Check reflections and the background for faces, documents, addresses or notifications. Crop away unrelated personal information while keeping the full cup and handle visible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Accurate documentation matters more than artistic photography. Clear, unedited angles let the actual grounds lead the reading.