Photographing a dent clearly for the calculator
Photographing a dent clearly for the calculator
A dent is not always visible in a straight photo. Glossy paint, dark colours and hard sunlight can hide the shape. With the right angle and reflection, the calculator review can better assess whether dent repair, shaping or refinishing is needed.
Straight is not enough
A front photo shows location, but often not depth.
Reflection shows shape
An angled photo along the paint reveals deformation.
Edge or flat panel matters
A dent on an edge differs from a dent in the centre of a panel.
How to make a dent visible
- Photograph the full part.
- Take an angled photo along the panel.
- Use a straight line or reflection in the paint.
- Take a close-up without losing context.
1Why dent photos are difficult
A camera turns a three-dimensional deformation into a flat image. A dent may therefore look smaller in a photo than in reality. The calculator can process the damage better when the photos show the shape of the panel.
Dark cars and rounded body panels need extra attention. A reflection of a building, line or light source reveals distortion.
2Use distance and angle
Start with an overview of the entire part. Then take a photo along the panel. For doors, a photo from front to rear or rear to front often works well.
Do not hold the camera against the damage. The specialist needs to see where the dent is located and whether an edge, crease line or adjacent panel is affected.
Keep roughly one to two metres distance for the part photo.
Take a second shot from a lower or angled position.
Use daylight without hard shadows.
3Choose the correct damage in the calculator
A dent without paint damage is assessed differently from a dent with broken paint. Select visible paint damage separately when the paint is damaged.
The better the photos and selection match, the closer the calculated price stays to the final repair price.
| Problem | Better photo | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Dent disappears | Angled reflection photo | Deformation appears in the paint line. |
| Damage looks smaller | Photograph the full panel | Scale and position become clear. |
| Paint damage unclear | Close-up in daylight | Specialist sees if refinishing is needed. |
The calculator is strongest when visible damage is entered completely and accurately. The largest differences arise when damage is not selected, classified too lightly or only becomes visible after dismantling.
Calculate your vehicle damage now
Enter the vehicle details, select the visible damage and receive a concrete calculated price with an overview per damaged part. Add photos for specialist review.