Hitting a snag while uploading your designs is super frustrating, we get it. But don't worry, it's usually a quick fix. When an image or file won't upload on the "Upload Your Designs" tab, the problem almost always comes down to one of a few common issues. Let's walk through them and get you back to creating.
Checking Your File Format
First things first, let's make sure you're using a file type that Genpire can work with. We accept a pretty wide range of formats to give you flexibility, from simple photos to professional design files. Nine times out of ten, a file won't upload simply because it's in a format we don't recognize.
The most common and reliable formats are the ones you already know: JPG, PNG, and PDF. These are perfect for reference images, mood boards, or scanned sketches. We also support standard sketch and design application files, so if you've got a more technical drawing, you should be good to go.
| File Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| JPG, PNG | Photos, reference images, digital sketches. |
| Scanned documents, multi-page presentations, spec sheets. | |
| Design Files | Technical drawings, vector assets from design software. |
If your file is in a different format, try opening it in an image editor and saving it as a PNG or JPG. That usually does the trick.
Is Your File Too Big?
Sometimes the issue isn't the format, but the size. High-resolution images and detailed design files can get pretty beefy, and there's a limit to what can be uploaded at once. This limit can change, so your best bet is to check the little message right on the upload prompt—it'll tell you the current maximum file size.
If your file is over the limit, you'll need to shrink it down. You don't have to sacrifice quality! There are tons of free online tools that can compress your image without making it look blurry. Just search for "image compressor" or "PDF compressor." If you're on a Mac, the built-in Preview app has a tool to reduce file size. On Windows, the Photos app often has an option to resize when saving.
When a URL Link Doesn't Work
Using a link to pull an image from the web is a great shortcut, but it can be a little tricky. If you've pasted a URL and nothing happens, you probably grabbed the link to the entire webpage instead of just the image itself.
To fix this, go back to the image you want, right-click on it directly, and look for an option like "Copy Image Address" or "Copy Image Link." That gives you a direct link ending in something like .jpg or .png. Paste that new link into Genpire, and it should pull in the image perfectly.
Trying Some Quick Browser Fixes
If you've checked the format, size, and URL and are still stuck, the issue might be on your end. It happens! Here are a few last things to try before giving up.
First, try clearing your browser's cache. Sometimes old data can interfere with new uploads. A quick search for "how to clear cache on [your browser name]" will show you how. If that doesn't work, switch browsers. If you're using Safari, for example, give Chrome a shot. This simple step solves a surprising number of problems.
Finally, consider that the file itself might be corrupted. This can happen during a download or save. The easiest way to check is to simply try opening the file on your computer. If it won't open, there's your culprit. Try re-downloading it or re-exporting it from the original software and upload the new version.
Related questions
What if I don't have a sketch or design file?
That's absolutely no problem! The "Upload Your Designs" tab is completely optional. You can create a fantastic tech pack just by using the "Describe Your Product" tab to detail your idea in plain text.
Where do my uploaded images appear?
Your uploaded designs and reference images become a core part of your product's blueprint. You'll find them attached to the final tech pack in the "Tech Packs" section of your Creator Dashboard.
Can I add more images after I create the tech pack?
Of course. Your tech packs are living documents. You can always go into a tech pack's detail view to manage revisions and add or update images as your design evolves.