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Count capsules in a photo

Spread capsules in one layer and take a photo to count them free online. Check for one marker per capsule, fix overlaps or duplicates and save the total.

How to photograph capsules for counting ↓

What are you counting?135 types

For an accurate count

  • Shoot from directly aboveor straight at pipe, rebar and log ends.
  • Spread items in one layerPiles and overlaps cause misses.
  • Use a contrasting backgroundand avoid glare, shadows and blur.

How to photograph capsules for counting

  1. 1

    Separate touching capsules

    Spread them in one layer with a little space between shells. Stacked capsules hide part of the batch.

  2. 2

    Use a contrasting matte surface

    Choose a plain background that differs from both colours of the capsule. Avoid shiny trays and patterned surfaces.

  3. 3

    Check both halves together

    A two-colour capsule is one item. Review colour boundaries and remove any extra marker placed on the other half.

Separated capsules are easier to review, including two-colour shells.

Photo example

Separated capsules are easier to review, including two-colour shells.

The tool's sample opens saved example markers; uploading your own photo runs a new count.

67 capsules are marked in the tool's sample photo.

When to count capsules from a photo

Pharmacies, supplement packers and clinical trial staff count capsules when filling bottles, spot-checking a batch or counting what a participant brings back. Instead of counting a pile by hand, spread the capsules on a plain tray, take one photo and check one marker per capsule. Use it as a second check alongside your usual procedure, and keep the marked image with your notes.

Questions about counting capsules

Can a two-colour capsule get two markers?

Inspect the result for exactly one marker per capsule. If both halves are marked, remove the extra marker and check the updated total.

Can I count capsules through a bottle?

A bottle can introduce reflections and hide capsules behind one another. A single-layer photo on a plain surface makes the count easier to verify.

Can I check that a bottle holds the right number of capsules?

Yes. Pour the bottle onto a plain tray that contrasts with the capsules, spread them in one layer and photograph from above. Check the markers and compare the total with the count on the label, then return the capsules to the bottle. When spot-checking several bottles, photograph each one separately.

More counting guides

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