[Request] Revise image quality guidelines

[echo6ix]

It's been pointed out on Discord that we have a recurring image quality issues pertaining to AI upscaled images. Because image submissions appear as small thumbnails, the quality of an image is difficult to determine. Hundreds from the user in question have already been approved, and there could be more from other users that have evaded detection.

I propose we take this opportunity to revise the image guidelines to explicitly add a section on image quality that aims to give users an understanding of what constitutes good and bad image quality, including examples of forbidden images.

Image Quality

The objective of the StashDB image repository is to document a variety of a performer's looks throughout their career. We [should] aim to achieve this while maintaining clearly defined standards of quality images.

Good Quality

An optimal image should meet the following criteria when viewed at full size:

• Sharp, clear, and free from visual artifacts
• Image looks "natural" with no obvious third-party image modifications
• Moderate to large resolution

Remember that bigger is not always better. Submitting a smaller image with superior clarity and sharpness is preferred over a larger, blurrier one with artifacts at full size.

Low Quality

Identify low-quality images through the following indicators:

• Very small resolution
• Noticeable artifacts, such as blockiness, jagged edges, pixelation, strange color patterns
• Blurriness or out of focus
• Inappropriate aspect ratio {link to the 2:3 guidelines here?}
• Obvious signs of editing, including filters, effects, excessive saturation, excessive sharpening, over upscaling, and other modifications

No AI Upscaled Images

We strictly prohibit the submission of AI upscaled images. While AI upscaling can enhance clarity when used with proficiency, submitted upscales have lacked consistency and polluted the repository with low quality images. Some algorithms like CodeFormer, may provide visually appealing images, but distort the integrity of original facial attributes when used inappropriately.

No Altered or Modified Images; Prefer Originals

Avoid submitting edited images. This includes but is not limited to altering colors, tones, contrast, backgrounds, "Photoshopping", or introducing generative AI elements. We prefer non-edited original images to maintain consistency in quality.

Exemptions for Specific Scenarios:

1. Obscure performers often lack quality images. We accept their low-quality images when nothing else is available.
2. Cropped images at a 2:3 aspect ratio are exempt from our no editing guideline.
3. Images modified to exclude another performer's face or "hardcore act" are allowed if no better/higher quality images are available.
4. Edited image submissions are allowed from vetted contributors who have demonstrated a proficiency at their contributions, and with the express written consent from StashDB administrators only.