As a business that specializes in key cutting, we often receive questions from customers who, for various reasons, don’t have access to their original keys. A common question we get is, “Can you copy a key from a picture?” The short answer is no, and in this article, we’ll explain why that’s not possible.
Why You Need the Original Key for Key Cutting
Key cutting is a precise process that involves using an original key and a key blank. The original key is placed in a machine, which traces its unique cuts and grooves to create an exact replica on the blank key. If you want to learn more about how this works, check out our other articles, How to Use a Key Cutting Machine and How Key Cutting Machine Works, which go into more detail about the technical steps.
Without an original key, we simply can’t proceed with the key cutting process. So, “Can you copy a key from a picture?” No, because a picture cannot be placed in a key cutting machine to trace the shape or cuts of the key accurately. A photograph lacks the 3D details necessary for a successful duplication.
The Possibility of Copying Keys from Pictures
While we’ve never encountered a locksmith who could make a key based solely on a photograph, we know that advancements in technology are always happening. From our research, it is technically possible for a highly skilled locksmith, with the right tools, to attempt duplicating a key based on careful measurements taken from a high-quality photo. This would involve noting the size, depth, and pattern of the cuts, then using that information to create a key. However, this process is extremely delicate and may not always result in a functional key.
From a professional standpoint, the question “Can you copy a key from a picture?” remains an extremely complex and unreliable process, which is why we don’t offer this service. Success cannot be guaranteed, and the precision required makes it really impractical.
Be Cautious with Key Photos
While copying a key from a picture is not something we do or recommend, it’s important to be cautious about where you share or post pictures of your keys. Although it’s unlikely that someone would copy your key using the “copy from a picture method”, it’s still important to be cautious about where you share or post pictures of your keys. You don’t want your key pictures to fall into the wrong hands. Although this method is impractical and highly precise, it’s better to avoid unnecessary risks by keeping your key photos private.
Again, we want to emphasize that we do not copy keys from pictures. Our key cutting service always requires a physical, working key for duplication.
Conclusion: Can You Copy a Key from a Picture?
In summary, the answer to “Can you copy a key from a picture?” is no, at least not with traditional key cutting methods. The process requires the original key for tracing and shaping a blank key to create an accurate copy. While some new technologies might claim to allow key replication from a photo, we don’t think it is a reliable or practical solution, and the functionality of such a copy isn’t guaranteed. Plus, we don’t offer this service, nor do we know anyone who does. To avoid any issues, it’s best to get a spare key made while you have the original—before it’s too late! Bring your original key to us, and we’ll make sure you get a perfectly functional duplicate.
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