To import project data, it must be saved as a CSV (comma-separated values) file. This format stores data in plain text where each value is separated by a comma. You can create a CSV file using spreadsheet programs like Excel, Numbers, or Google Sheets by saving your spreadsheet with UTF-8 encoding. While UTF-8 is usually the default encoding in most spreadsheet programs, it's not always the case. If your program prompts you to choose an encoding format, make sure to select UTF-8.
Getting a UTF-8 encoding error when trying to upload your CSV file? Click here to resolve it.
SEARCH BEHAVIOR
By default, Snapizzi indexes your subject data fields — like first name, last name, and code — so customers can search by any of those values.
Here's how it works:
Snapizzi matches on either first or last name independently for broader search results.
If a parent types both a first and last name, Snapizzi will treat them as separate search attempts. For example, “John Smith” will return any records with John as a first name or Smith as a last name — not necessarily both.
Want to customize the search?
You can define a specific column for search by naming the header exactly Search (case-sensitive). This is especially useful if you want parents to search using a unique code, such as an order ID or student ID.
⚠️ Important: When a "Search" field is defined, Snapizzi will only use that column for all search queries. Other columns like first or last name and code will no longer be indexed.
To ensure the search function operates correctly, your CSV file needs to have columns with correctly formatted headers for "First Name" and "Last Name," or a single "Full Name" column. If the headers are formatted incorrectly, a "Searchability" warning will appear in the Diagnose & Remedy tool. The table below lists alternative header formats that are also acceptable.
Snapizzi generates camera cards based on the order in your CSV file, so ensure the file is organized for your desired printing sequence (ignore this step if using Snapizzi Paperless). Your CSV can include any additional relevant data fields that define your project's structure.
If your CSV lacks a "Full Name" column, Snapizzi will automatically create one by merging the "First" and "Last" name columns.
GROUPS
Snapizzi automatically places group photos into the appropriate subject galleries. To help Snapizzi recognize your group columns, add an asterisk (*) to the group column header. If not added, you can define it during CSV field mapping.
Snapizzi generates a unique code for each group, which should be photographed before the group photos are taken.
For projects with multiple groups (e.g., ballet schools, bands), where subjects appear in more than one group photo, refer to this article on multi-group projects.
PASSWORD
To require customers to enter a password to view their photos, include a "Password" column in your CSV and enable passwords in your Privacy Settings. You can assign custom passwords, or if the column is left blank, Snapizzi will generate them for you. Avoid using ambiguous characters like the letter "O" and the number "0" to prevent confusion.
You can also edit passwords at any time.
GALLERY NAME
In the remote gallery, the default name for each subject is the 9-digit code from their camera card. To customize it, add a column titled "Gallery" to your CSV file and add the subject names in that column. You can also add a "Gallery" column (and others) to your CSV via the CSV editor.
Tip 1: To combine data from two separate columns into one, click here. Remember, if your CSV lacks a "Full Name" column, Snapizzi will automatically create one by merging the "First" and "Last" name columns.
Tip 2: If you have data in one column and would like to create separate columns for each, click here. This is useful if you have a full name field and would like to create a first and a last name column.
NEXT STEP:
Upload Your CSV File