Currently, Survey123 uses an embedded camera control that does not respect the device’s default camera settings (e.g. 4:3 vs 16:9 aspect ratio). Photos are always captured in full screen (often 16:9), and there is no way in XLSForm to configure or enforce a specific aspect ratio.
This creates issues for field workflows where consistency of photos is required across multiple surveyors and devices so that photos can be imported into automated reports with minimal effort (usually 4:3). Post-processing is required to crop or resize images, adding overhead.
Proposed Enhancement
Add support for optional camera parameters in XLSForm for image questions. For example: aspect=4:3
Suggested parameters: 4:3, 16:9, 1:1
Benefits
Ensures standardised outputs across all survey submissions.
Avoids unnecessary post-processing scripts or user training on external apps.
Improves regulatory compliance where specific aspect ratios are required in reports.
Example Use Case
An environmental consultancy requires site photos in 4:3 aspect ratio for use in automated Survey123 Feature Reports reports. Currently, if report formatting is lost (e.g. photos placed in tables or sections of a report), staff must take photos outside of Survey123, crop or resize as necessary and upload them manually to ensure compliance. Allowing XLSForm to specify aspect ratio would save time, ensure consistency, and reduce errors.
