If you’re curious about the health of your tree, our AI-powered arborist tool can help. All you need to do is take three specific photos of your tree and text them to 510-TREEDOX (510-873-3369). You’ll get a preliminary diagnosis and care recommendations.
Getting an accurate TreeScore starts with great pictures. Our AI uses these pictures to assess canopy health, trunk condition, foliar health, root flare health and its overall condition. Each clear, well-framed shot makes all the difference. Here’s how to take the right photos to get the most accurate results.
The Canopy
Start by stepping back and capturing a wide-angle photo of the entire tree. This image helps our AI assess the overall structure, canopy density, and any visible signs of stress like thinning foliage, dead branches, or asymmetry.
Tips for the best crown shot:
- Wipe your camera lens to get the clearest image.
- Include the full height and width of the tree.
- Take the image during day light hours.
The Base
Next, take a close-up photo of the base and root flare—the area where the trunk meets the ground. This helps us detect issues like fungal growth, bark damage, pest infestations, or root girdling.
Tips for the best trunk/root photo:
- Get the entire base in frame.
- Include any visibly exposed or damaged surface roots.
- Gently clear any debris away before photographing.
- Make sure to include any cracks, oozing sap, or discoloration—these are important signs.
A Leaf
Finally, take a clear close-up of a single leaf from the tree. This helps our AI identify the species and detect leaf-specific diseases like blight, mildew, or nutrient deficiencies.
Tips for the best leaf photo:
- Choose a leaf that looks typical for the tree.
- Photograph it lying flat against a neutral background (like your hand or a sheet of paper).
- Make sure the edges of the leaf are visible—this is crucial for species identification.
What Not to Do
To ensure your diagnosis is accurate, avoid these common mistakes:
- Blurry or low-light photos. Our AI needs clear detail to analyze health indicators.
- Overly zoomed in on the crown. A wide shot is essential to assess overall structure.
- Cropped out the leaf edges. The shape and margin of the leaf are key to identifying the species.
- Photographed from inside your home or through a window. Reflections and obstructions reduce clarity.