A clear photo gives AlignEat the best chance of reading every dish correctly. These tips help you get accurate results the first time.
Taking a good photo
- Hold the phone steady. Movement blurs the text and makes it harder to read.
- Fill the frame with the menu. Get close enough that the text takes up most of the screen. Avoid large empty borders.
- Keep the text sharp and in focus. Tap the menu on your screen before taking the photo to help the camera focus on the right area.
- Avoid glare. Tilt the phone slightly if you see a bright reflection from overhead lights or sunlight. Moving a few centimetres can make a big difference.
- Use good lighting. Dark or dim menus are harder to read. If the light is low, try moving to a brighter spot or using the phone torch if the restaurant allows it.
If you get a low confidence result
A low confidence message means the app could not read the menu clearly enough to give you reliable results. Check these common causes:
- The photo was taken at an angle. Try pointing the camera straight at the menu.
- The text was too small in the frame. Move closer and try again.
- There was strong glare or shadow over part of the menu.
Tap retry to take a new photo once you have adjusted your position and lighting.
Good to know
- Scanning a QR code or pasting a link instead of taking a photo can improve accuracy when the printed menu is hard to photograph.
- AlignEat reads what is printed on the menu. Always confirm your allergies and restrictions with restaurant staff before you order and eat.
Related: Scan a menu by photo, QR code, or link, Read your results: compatible, adaptable, could not confirm, avoid