Most problems like you describe is due to human error. As far as starting the spindle that is something controlled by the control software and post processor for your machine.
When you set up the photo within photovcarve, i think you have to designate the material size, and placement of the photo within your material.
Then you have to set your "start point" being either the center or corner of the material. Once you define the parameters of your material, and your cutting area within the material then you won't have problems. As it is you are just not doing something correct.
Rest assured we ALL have done this when starting out. Maybe post some pictures or files to show us what you are doing so we can see exactly what is going on.
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