> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.norrnext.com/norrcompetition/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.norrnext.com/norrcompetition/troubleshooting/i-get-an-error-or-white-screen-on-photo-upload.md).

# I get an error or white screen on photo upload

If uploading photos fails with a blank white screen, a `500 Internal Server Error`, or an immediate upload failure, follow these troubleshooting steps:

***

## 1. Check PHP Memory and Upload Limits

When resizing high-resolution digital photos (e.g. 12+ megapixels), PHP must decompress the full uncompressed bitmap into memory. A 10 MB JPEG can require 80–120 MB of RAM during resizing operations.

Verify your server's `php.ini` or `.htaccess` configuration:

```ini
memory_limit = 256M
upload_max_filesize = 32M
post_max_size = 32M
max_execution_time = 300
```

{% hint style="info" %}
`post_max_size` must always be equal to or larger than `upload_max_filesize`.
{% endhint %}

***

## 2. Check Image Processing Library (GD / Imagick)

NorrCompetition requires either the PHP **GD** or **Imagick** extension for thumbnail generation, cropping, and watermarking:

1. In Joomla Administrator, navigate to **System > System Information > PHP Information**.
2. Search for `gd` or `imagick` and verify it is enabled with support for standard formats (`JPEG Support: enabled`, `PNG Support: enabled`).
3. In **Components > NorrCompetition > Options > Images** tab:
   * Verify **Image Library** is set to match your server configuration (**GD** or **Imagick**).
   * Check **Max File Size (KB)** (default is `2048` KB / 2 MB; increase this value if allowing larger raw photo uploads).
   * Ensure uploaded files are valid standard formats (**JPEG**, **PNG**, **GIF**).

***

## 3. Reveal Exact PHP Error Message

If a white screen persists:

1. Navigate to **System > Global Configuration > Server** tab.
2. Set **Error Reporting** to **Maximum**.
3. Retry the photo upload to inspect the exact fatal error message (such as `Allowed memory size exhausted` or missing directory permission).
4. After diagnosing, set Error Reporting back to **System Default**.

***

## 4. Verify Folder Write Permissions

Ensure the upload directory (`media/com_competition/uploads/` or your configured uploads directory) has write permissions (`755` for directories, `644` for files).