How to Take a Perfect Passport Photo at Home: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Taking a passport photo at home might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and tools, you can create professional-quality photos that meet all official requirements without leaving your house. This comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every step of the process, from setting up your space to submitting your final photo. Whether you're applying for a new passport, renewing an existing one, or need photos for visa applications, this guide will help you achieve perfect results.

Why Take Passport Photos at Home?

Before we dive into the tutorial, let's understand why more people are choosing to take passport photos at home:

Cost Savings

Professional passport photo services typically charge $15-$30 for two photos. Taking photos at home costs virtually nothing if you already own a smartphone or camera. Even with printing costs, you'll save 60-80% compared to retail services.

Convenience and Comfort

Taking photos at home means:

• No scheduling appointments or waiting in lines

• Complete privacy and comfort in your own space

• Unlimited retakes until you're satisfied

• No time pressure or rushing

• Perfect for people with social anxiety or busy schedules

Control Over Quality

When you take your own photos, you have complete control:

• Choose your best angles and lighting

• Take as many photos as needed

• Review and select the perfect shot

• Adjust settings to get optimal results

• No settling for unflattering photos

Family Convenience

If multiple family members need passport photos:

• Set up once for everyone

• Consistent quality across all photos

• Coordinate applications together

• Save significantly on multiple photo sets

• Help children feel comfortable in familiar environment

Understanding Official Requirements

Before taking your photo, you must understand the exact requirements for your country. While we'll cover specifics for major countries, always verify current requirements on official government websites.

Universal Standards Across Most Countries

Photo Dimensions:

• United States: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)

• United Kingdom: 45 x 35 mm

• Canada: 50 x 70 mm

• European Union: 35 x 45 mm

• India: 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inches)

Technical Quality:

• High resolution (minimum 600 dpi for prints)

• Sharp focus with no blur

• Natural color with accurate skin tones

• Even lighting with no harsh shadows

• Plain white or off-white background

• Recent photo (taken within 6 months)

Appearance Requirements:

• Face camera directly with neutral expression

• Both eyes open and clearly visible

• Mouth closed (slight smile acceptable in some countries)

• No glasses permitted (with rare medical exceptions)

• Hair away from face and eyes

• No hats or head coverings (except religious)

• Ears visible (preferred but not always mandatory)

Country-Specific Details

United States Requirements:

• Head must be between 1 to 1⅜ inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top

• Eyes should be 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches (28-35 mm) from bottom of photo

• Full face visible from top of hair to bottom of chin

• Neutral expression, both eyes open, mouth closed

• No glasses under any circumstances

UK Requirements:

• Face must be 29-34 mm from chin to crown

• Plain light-colored background (cream or light grey acceptable)

• No smiling, mouth must be closed

• Photo must be taken against a plain background with no texture

• Eyes open and clearly visible

Canadian Requirements:

• Head length 31-36 mm from chin to crown

• Full front view with both edges of face clearly shown

• Shoulders should be visible and square to camera

• Neutral expression with mouth closed

For detailed requirements specific to your country, consult official government passport websites or use professional online passport photo services that automatically format photos for different countries.

Equipment You'll Need

The good news: you probably already have most of what you need.

Essential Equipment

Camera Options (choose one):

• Smartphone (8 megapixels or higher recommended)

• Digital camera with self-timer

• Webcam (minimum 720p resolution)

• DSLR camera (best quality but not necessary)

Modern smartphones are ideal because:

• Sufficient resolution for passport photos

• Easy to use with self-timer or remote

• Instant preview of results

• Can directly upload to online services

• Front and rear cameras available

Supporting Equipment:

• Tripod or stable surface to hold camera steady

• White or off-white wall, sheet, or poster board (background)

• Chair or stool at appropriate height

• Good lighting source (natural or artificial)

• Ruler or measuring tape

• Mirror for checking appearance

Optional but Helpful

• Remote shutter release or Bluetooth trigger

• Ring light or photography umbrella for even lighting

• White foam board or reflector to fill shadows

• Photo editing software or apps

• Color printer with photo paper (if printing at home)

Smartphone Accessories

If using a smartphone, consider:

• Phone tripod adapter or phone holder

• Bluetooth remote shutter

• External clip-on lighting

• Wide-angle lens attachment (if phone has narrow field of view)

Setting Up Your Photography Space

Proper setup is 80% of success. Take time to prepare your space correctly.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Best locations in your home:

• Room with large windows for natural light

• Against a plain white or light-colored wall

• Space where you can position camera 4-6 feet away

• Area free from clutter and distractions

• Quiet room where you won't be interrupted

Avoid:

• Rooms with colored walls (creates color cast)

• Areas with busy backgrounds or patterns

• Spaces with only overhead lighting

• Rooms with too many windows (mixed lighting)

• Outdoor locations (too variable and unpredictable)

Step 2: Prepare Your Background

The background is critical for passport photo compliance.

Options for White Background:

1. Plain White Wall (easiest):
   
   

   • Must be completely clean and unmarked

   • Check for shadows before shooting

   • Stand 3-4 feet from wall to prevent shadow casting

   • Ensure even lighting across entire background

2. White Bed Sheet or Fabric:
   
   

   • Hang wrinkle-free sheet on wall

   • Use clips or tape to keep taut

   • Iron out all wrinkles and creases

   • Ensure fabric is pure white, not cream or off-white

3. White Poster Board or Foam Board:
   
   

   • Position vertically behind subject

   • Large enough to fill frame (at least 2x3 feet)

   • Ensure no edges or shadows visible

   • Check for cleanliness and marks

4. Use Online Background Replacement:
   
   

   • Take photo against any plain, light background

   • Use passport photo services with AI background removal

   • Software automatically replaces with compliant white background

   • Easiest option for beginners

Background Setup Tips:

• Position background 3-4 feet behind where you'll sit

• Ensure background extends beyond frame on all sides

• Check for any shadows casting on background

• Verify background appears white, not grey, in photos

• Remove any objects, decorations, or furniture from view

Step 3: Set Up Proper Lighting

Lighting can make or break your passport photo. The goal is even, soft illumination.

Natural Light Setup (Recommended for Beginners):

1. Position near window:
   
   

   • Sit facing a large window (indirect sunlight is best)

   • Avoid direct harsh sunlight (causes harsh shadows)

   • Best times: mid-morning or afternoon when light is soft

   • Overcast days provide ideal soft, diffused light

2. Reflector placement:
   
   

   • Position white foam board opposite window

   • Reflects light back to fill shadows on shadowed side of face

   • Can use white poster board or even white towel

   • Adjust distance to control fill intensity

Artificial Light Setup:

1. Two-light setup (best results):
   
   

   • Position one light 45° to left of subject, slightly above eye level

   • Position second light 45° to right, same height

   • Lights should be same intensity and color temperature

   • Use softboxes, umbrellas, or bounce off ceiling/walls

2. Single-light setup:
   
   

   • Position light directly in front, slightly above eye level

   • Use reflector on shadow side to fill

   • Bounce light off white ceiling or wall for softer effect

   • Ring lights work well for even, shadowless lighting

Lighting Tips:

• Use daylight-balanced bulbs (5000-6500K color temperature)

• Avoid warm yellow tungsten bulbs (creates color cast)

• Never use overhead ceiling lights only (creates shadows)

• Check for shadows on face and background before shooting

• Ensure even illumination across entire face

Step 4: Position Your Camera

Camera positioning affects perspective and framing.

Correct Camera Placement:

• Distance: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) from subject

• Height: Exactly at eye level (not above or below)

• Angle: Directly facing subject (0° horizontal and vertical)

• Stability: Mounted on tripod or very stable surface

• Centered: Camera aligned with center of subject's face

Why Distance Matters:

• Too close: Wide-angle distortion makes face appear wider

• Too far: May lose detail and sharpness

• Correct distance: Natural perspective that matches how others see you

Setting Up Tripod:

1. Adjust tripod height so camera is exactly at your eye level

2. Use bubble level on tripod to ensure it's perfectly level

3. Position tripod 4-6 feet directly in front of where you'll sit

4. Lock all adjustments securely

5. Test camera angle with practice shot

Alternative Without Tripod:

• Stack books or boxes to create stable platform

• Use shelf at appropriate height

• Ensure surface is completely stable (won't shift)

• Double-check height and angle before shooting

Preparing Yourself for the Photo

Now that your space is ready, it's time to prepare yourself.

Step 1: Choose Appropriate Clothing

Best Clothing Choices:

• Solid dark colors (navy, black, dark grey, burgundy)

• Colors that contrast with white background

• Collared shirts or professional tops

• Clothing you wear regularly

• Business casual or professional attire

Avoid:

• White or very light colors (blends with background)

• Uniforms (unless you wear daily)

• Camouflage or busy patterns

• Shirts with large logos or text

• Tank tops or strapless tops (can appear nude in photo)

• Costumes or theatrical clothing

Why Dark Colors Work Best:

• Creates clear definition between you and background

• Professional appearance

• Flattering in photos

• Won't wash out under bright lighting

Step 2: Style Your Hair

Hair styling is important for meeting requirements and looking your best.

Hair Guidelines:

• Keep hair neat and well-groomed

• Style away from face and eyes

• Ensure forehead is visible

• Both ears should be visible (preferred)

• Natural hairstyle that you wear regularly

• Secure long hair so it doesn't obscure face

Specific Tips:

• Long hair: Pull back slightly or ensure it falls behind shoulders

• Bangs: Style so they don't cover eyebrows or eyes

• Natural hair: Ensure it doesn't cast shadows on face

• Facial hair: Keep beards and mustaches neat and trimmed

What to Avoid:

• Hair covering eyes, eyebrows, or face

• Dramatic or theatrical hairstyles

• Hair accessories that cover the face (small clips okay)

• Wet or unkempt appearance

Step 3: Makeup and Grooming

Makeup should enhance natural appearance, not transform it.

Makeup Guidelines:

• Keep makeup natural and subtle

• Match your everyday appearance

• Focus on evening skin tone

• Avoid heavy contouring or dramatic looks

• Use matte products (avoid excessive shine)

Recommended Makeup:

• Light foundation to even skin tone

• Concealer for blemishes if needed

• Natural eyebrow definition

• Neutral eye shadow (if any)

• Mascara for definition

• Natural lip color close to your natural shade

What to Avoid:

• Dramatic eye makeup or bright colors

• Heavy contouring that changes face shape

• Bright or unusual lip colors

• Excessive highlighter or shimmer

• Theatrical or costume makeup

• Anything that significantly alters your appearance

For Men:

• Ensure facial hair is neatly trimmed

• Consider powder to reduce shine

• Comb or style hair neatly

• Clean shaven or well-groomed beard

Step 4: Remove Prohibited Items

Must Remove:

• Glasses (no exceptions except rare medical cases)

• Hats or caps of any kind

• Headbands that cover hair/forehead

• Large earrings that obscure face

• Scarves (unless religious)

Can Keep:

• Small stud earrings

• Religious head coverings (if face remains fully visible)

• Hearing aids

• Facial piercings (small, non-distracting)

Special Note on Glasses: Most countries banned glasses in passport photos due to glare and facial recognition issues. If you absolutely cannot remove glasses for medical reasons, you'll need documentation from your doctor and must ensure:

• No glare on lenses

• Frames don't obscure any part of eyes

• Eyes fully visible through lenses

Step 5: Practice Your Expression

The hardest part for many people: maintaining the right expression.

Required Expression:

• Neutral, relaxed face

• Both eyes open and looking at camera

• Mouth closed (slight natural smile okay in some countries)

• No teeth showing

• Relaxed jaw and eyebrows

How to Achieve Neutral Expression:

1. Relax your face completely:
   
   

   • Release tension in jaw

   • Soften eyes without squinting

   • Let eyebrows rest naturally

   • Breathe normally

2. Practice in mirror:
   
   

   • Find your natural resting face

   • Think pleasant, calm thoughts

   • Avoid forced expressions

   • Remember this is for identification, not glamour

3. Visualization technique:
   
   

   • Think of someone you care about

   • Imagine pleasant, peaceful scene

   • Natural slight smile may form

   • This creates approachable, natural look

Common Expression Mistakes:

• Big smile with teeth (looks friendly but usually not allowed)

• Serious frown (appears unhappy or stern)

• Raised eyebrows (looks surprised)

• Squinting (obscures eyes)

• Smirking or asymmetrical expression

Taking Your Passport Photo: Step-by-Step

Now you're ready for the actual photography process.

Step 1: Position Yourself Correctly

Sitting Position:

1. Sit on chair or stool positioned 4-6 feet from camera

2. Position yourself 3-4 feet in front of background

3. Sit up straight with shoulders square to camera

4. Center yourself directly in front of camera

5. Adjust height so eyes are at camera level

Head Position:

• Face camera directly (no turning left or right)

• Keep head level (don't tilt up, down, or sideways)

• Chin slightly down but not tucked

• Eyes looking directly at camera lens

• Imagine string pulling top of head toward ceiling

Body Position:

• Both shoulders visible and square to camera

• Sit or stand straight with good posture

• Hands in lap or at sides (out of frame)

• Relax shoulders (don't hunch)

Step 2: Frame the Shot Properly

Framing is critical for passport photo compliance.

Correct Framing:

• Head centered in frame (equal space on both sides)

• Top of head near top of frame (small margin)

• Bottom of frame at mid-chest level

• Both shoulders visible

• Face occupies 70-80% of photo height

Camera Settings:

For Smartphones:

• Use rear camera for better quality

• Switch to portrait mode if available

• Disable beauty filters and enhancements

• Ensure HDR is off (can create artifacts)

• Set timer to 3-5 seconds

For Digital Cameras:

• Set to highest quality/resolution

• Use aperture f/5.6 to f/8 for sharp focus

• ISO 100-400 (lower is better in good light)

• Use self-timer (10 seconds gives time to compose)

• Enable grid lines to help center subject

Step 3: Test Shots and Adjustments

Never take just one photo. Testing is essential.

Initial Test Process:

1. Take first test photo:
   
   

   • Use self-timer or remote trigger

   • Maintain neutral expression

   • Keep eyes open and focused on lens

2. Review on large screen:
   
   

   • Transfer to computer if possible

   • Check focus and sharpness

   • Verify lighting is even

   • Look for shadows on face or background

   • Check that face is properly centered

3. Identify issues:
   
   

   • Face too large or small in frame?

   • Head tilted or turned?

   • Shadows present?

   • Background uneven or grey?

   • Eyes not visible or expression wrong?

4. Make adjustments:
   
   

   • Reposition camera or subject as needed

   • Adjust lighting to eliminate shadows

   • Change camera settings if needed

   • Practice expression again

5. Take another test shot:
   
   

   • Repeat until test shot meets all requirements

Step 4: Take Multiple Final Photos

Once settings are dialed in, take many photos.

Photography Session:

1. Shoot 15-20 photos minimum:
   
   

   • Slight variations in expression

   • Blink between shots to avoid tired eyes

   • Rest briefly every few shots

   • Maintain consistent position

2. Take breaks if needed:
   
   

   • Don't rush the process

   • Relax between rounds of photos

   • Step away and return for fresh attempts

   • Better to spend extra time than settle for poor photo

3. Vary slightly:
   
   

   • Try subtle variations in head position

   • Slight differences in expression

   • Ensures you have options to choose from

4. Check periodically:
   
   

   • Review photos every 5-7 shots

   • Ensure you're maintaining quality

   • Make adjustments if problems develop

Tips for Best Results:

• Stay hydrated (helps skin look better)

• Good night's sleep shows in photos

• Take photos earlier in day (you look fresher)

• Shoot near window during overcast day (best natural light)

• Have helper nearby to adjust items if needed

Step 5: Review and Select Best Photo

With multiple photos taken, carefully select the best one.

Selection Criteria:

Technical Quality:

• ✓ Sharp focus on eyes and face

• ✓ Even lighting with no harsh shadows

• ✓ Natural, accurate skin tones

• ✓ Pure white background

• ✓ No red-eye or other defects

Composition:

• ✓ Face properly centered

• ✓ Correct amount of head room

• ✓ Both shoulders visible

• ✓ Head level (not tilted)

Appearance:

• ✓ Both eyes open and visible

• ✓ Appropriate neutral expression

• ✓ Hair not covering face

• ✓ No shadows on face

• ✓ Natural, pleasant appearance

Compliance:

• ✓ Meets size requirements for your country

• ✓ Background is acceptable

• ✓ No prohibited items visible

• ✓ Taken recently (will be current for 6 months)

Selection Process:

1. Transfer all photos to computer

2. View at 100% size to check sharpness

3. Eliminate obvious rejects (eyes closed, blurry, etc.)

4. Narrow to top 3-5 candidates

5. Compare side-by-side against requirements

6. Choose photo that best represents your appearance

7. Get second opinion from family member if possible

Editing and Formatting Your Photo

Basic editing ensures your photo meets technical requirements.

What Editing Is Allowed

Permitted Adjustments:

• Cropping to exact size requirements

• Minor brightness adjustments (to match reality)

• Red-eye removal

• Background cleanup or replacement

• Rotation to straighten head

• Resizing to meet dimension requirements

Prohibited Edits:

• Removing or adding facial features

• Smoothing skin texture heavily

• Changing face shape or proportions

• Altering hair color or style

• Adding makeup or effects

• Significant retouching

• Filters or artistic effects

Golden Rule: Photo should accurately represent your actual appearance. If edit changes how you look in person, it's not allowed.

Using Online Photo Services

The easiest way to format your photo correctly is using professional online services.

How Online Passport Photo Services Work:

1. Upload your photo:
   
   

   • Take photo using this guide

   • Upload to service from phone or computer

   • No need for perfect background or sizing

2. AI processing:
   
   

   • Automatic background removal and replacement

   • Intelligent cropping to country specifications

   • Face detection and centering

   • Size adjustment to exact requirements

   • Compliance verification

3. Review and approve:
   
   

   • Preview formatted photo

   • Check compliance with requirements

   • Request adjustments if needed

   • Approve final version

4. Receive digital files:
   
   

   • Instant download of compliant photo

   • Formatted for your specific country

   • Ready for online application submission

   • Option to order prints delivered to your door

Benefits of Online Services:

• Removes guesswork from sizing and formatting

• AI ensures compliance with requirements

• Handles background perfectly every time

• Much cheaper than retail services ($7-10 vs $15-30)

• Convenience of doing everything at home

• Money-back guarantees if photo is rejected

Manual Editing with Software

If you prefer to edit yourself, here's how:

Software Options:

• Free: GIMP, Paint.NET, Photoshop Express

• Paid: Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom

• Mobile: Snapseed, Adobe Lightroom Mobile, Passport Photo apps

Manual Editing Steps:

Step 1: Open Photo in Editor

• Import your selected photo

• Create duplicate layer (don't edit original)

• View at 100% to check details

Step 2: Adjust Brightness and Contrast (if needed)

• Brightness: Should match how you look in reality

• Contrast: Subtle adjustment for clarity

• White balance: Correct any color cast

• Keep changes minimal and natural

Step 3: Crop to Correct Size

For United States (2x2 inches):

1. Set crop tool to 2:2 ratio (square)

2. Position crop so face occupies 50-69% of frame height

3. Head should be 1 to 1⅜ inches from chin to crown

4. Eyes approximately in upper half of photo

5. Ensure shoulders are visible at bottom

For UK (45mm x 35mm):

1. Set crop to 45:35 ratio

2. Face should be 29-34mm from chin to crown

3. Position head accordingly in frame

Step 4: Check Background

• Background should be pure white

• If not perfectly white, use adjustment layers:

  • Increase exposure of background only

  • Use levels adjustment to ensure RGB 255,255,255

  • Avoid making background look artificial

Step 5: Final Touches

• Remove any dust spots or minor blemishes

• Check for any remaining issues

• Verify all requirements are met

• Save in high-quality format

Step 6: Export at Correct Size

For Print:

• Resolution: 600 dpi minimum

• Dimensions: Exact size for your country

• Format: JPEG, high quality

• Color space: sRGB

For Digital Submission:

• Dimensions: Check country requirements (often 600x600 pixels minimum)

• File size: Usually under 240KB

• Format: JPEG

• Color space: sRGB

Using Mobile Apps

Several mobile apps can format passport photos directly on your phone.

Popular Apps:

• Passport Photo (iOS/Android)

• ID Photo Application

• Passport Photo Maker

• Biometric Passport Photo

Typical App Features:

• Country-specific templates

• Automatic face detection

• Background removal

• Size adjustment

• Compliance checking

• Print and digital options

Using an App:

1. Download app and select your country

2. Take photo using in-app camera or upload existing

3. App automatically crops and formats

4. Review and adjust if needed

5. Save digital file or order prints

Printing Your Passport Photo

If you need physical prints for paper applications.

Printing at Home

Requirements for Home Printing:

• Photo-quality inkjet or laser printer

• Glossy or matte photo paper (check country requirements)

• Proper size paper (4x6 common for easy printing)

• Recent color cartridges (no faded or incorrect colors)

Home Printing Steps:

1. Prepare print file:
   
   

   • Create document with two 2x2 inch photos

   • Space photos apart for easy cutting

   • Set print quality to highest

   • Ensure actual size printing (no scaling)

2. Print settings:
   
   

   • Paper type: Photo/glossy

   • Quality: Best or high

   • Color management: Printer manages color

   • No borderless if cutting yourself

   • Print test on regular paper first

3. Print on photo paper:
   
   

   • Load photo paper correctly (glossy side up)

   • Print one page at a time

   • Allow ink to dry completely (5-10 minutes)

   • Handle by edges only

4. Cut precisely:
   
   

   • Use sharp scissors or paper cutter

   • Measure and mark cutting lines

   • Cut exactly to size (no borders)

   • Keep edges clean and straight

Cost: Approximately $1-3 per print (paper and ink).

Professional Printing Services

Local Print Shops:

• CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Costco

• Upload online or use kiosk

• Pick up in 1 hour or same day

• Cost: $0.15-0.50 per print

Online Print Services: Some passport photo services offer:

• Print and mail delivery option

• Professional photo-quality prints

• Pre-cut to exact size

• Delivered to your door in 2-5 days

• Slightly more expensive but most convenient

Comparison:

Method

Cost

Quality

Convenience

Speed

Home Print

$1-3

Variable

High

Immediate

Local Shop

$0.15-0.50

Good

Medium

1 hour

Online Service

$7-15

Excellent

Highest

2-5 days

Digital Submission

Many countries now accept digital photo uploads for online applications.

Digital Submission Benefits:

• No printing required

• Faster application processing

• No risk of photo damage

• Can submit from anywhere

• Lower overall cost

Digital File Requirements:

United States:

• Format: JPEG

• File size: Maximum 240 KB

• Dimensions: 600 x 600 pixels minimum (2400 x 2400 recommended)

• Resolution: 300 dpi or higher

• Color: Full color, sRGB color space

UK Digital Code System:

• Many services provide digital photo code

• Code valid for 90 days

• Enter code during online application

• Photos stored in government database

• No physical photos needed

Preparing Digital Files:

1. Export photo at required dimensions

2. Compress if needed to meet file size limit

3. Save with clear filename

4. Keep backup copy

5. Test upload before submitting application

Verifying Your Photo Meets Requirements

Before submitting, verify compliance to avoid rejection.

Online Compliance Checkers

Many tools can verify your photo automatically:

Features to Look For:

• Country-specific requirement checking

• Face detection and measurement

• Background verification

• Lighting analysis

• File specification checking

• Instant feedback on issues

Using Compliance Checkers:

1. Upload your photo to checker tool

2. Select your country

3. Review automated analysis

4. Check flagged issues

5. Correct problems before submission

6. Re-verify after corrections

Professional passport photo services typically include built-in compliance verification.

Manual Verification Checklist

Check each requirement systematically:

Background:

• ☐ Pure white or off-white color

• ☐ No patterns, texture, or marks

• ☐ No shadows on background

• ☐ Nothing else visible in background

Face Position:

• ☐ Centered horizontally and vertically

• ☐ Looking directly at camera

• ☐ Head straight (not tilted)

• ☐ Face occupies 70-80% of frame height

Expression:

• ☐ Neutral or slight natural smile

• ☐ Both eyes open and visible

• ☐ Mouth closed (no teeth showing)

• ☐ Natural, relaxed appearance

Technical Quality:

• ☐ Sharp focus on eyes and face

• ☐ Good resolution and clarity

• ☐ Even lighting with no harsh shadows

• ☐ Natural, accurate colors

• ☐ No red-eye or other defects

Appearance:

• ☐ No glasses visible

• ☐ No hats or head coverings (except religious)

• ☐ Hair not covering eyes or face

• ☐ Appropriate clothing visible

• ☐ Both ears visible (if required)

Measurements (for US):

• ☐ Photo exactly 2 x 2 inches

• ☐ Head 1 to 1⅜ inches chin to crown

• ☐ Eyes 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches from bottom

File Specifications (if digital):

• ☐ Correct file format (JPEG)

• ☐ Meets size requirements

• ☐ Proper resolution (600 dpi)

• ☐ Correct color space (sRGB)

Getting Second Opinion

Before submitting, get feedback:

Ask Family or Friends:

• Does photo look like you?

• Is expression natural and appropriate?

• Any obvious issues they notice?

• Would they recognize you from this photo?

Check Official Examples:

• Compare to example photos on government website

• Look at "acceptable" vs "unacceptable" samples

• Ensure yours matches acceptable examples

• Verify you haven't made common mistakes

Passport Acceptance Facility: If submitting paper application:

• Bring photos to acceptance facility before applying

• Agent can review and identify issues

• Opportunity to retake before official submission

• Peace of mind before submitting application

Special Situations and Tips

Taking Photos of Babies and Children

Passport photos of young children require special techniques.

Infants (0-12 months):

Setup:

1. Lay baby on white sheet or blanket

2. Ensure baby is alone (no parent hands visible)

3. Position camera directly above, looking down

4. Get close enough for proper framing

5. Have helper attract attention to camera

Timing:

• After feeding when calm and content

• Following good nap (alert but not overtired)

• During naturally happy time of day

• Be patient and take many photos

• Accept that eyes may not be fully open (usually acceptable)

Tips:

• White sheet on floor as background

• Natural window light from side

• Helper dangles toy above camera

• High shutter speed to freeze movement

• Take 50+ photos to get one good shot

Toddlers (1-5 years):

Preparation:

1. Explain what will happen in simple terms

2. Practice sitting still and looking at camera

3. Make it a game ("let's take pictures!")

4. Keep session short (5-10 minutes max)

5. Have favorite toy or sticker as reward

During Session:

• Sit child on chair facing camera

• Helper next to camera to direct attention

• Use silly faces or sounds to engage

• Take photos quickly when child looks

• Stay positive and encouraging

• Don't force if child is upset

School-Age Children:

• Easier cooperation and understanding

• Still keep session brief and positive

• Explain neutral expression requirement

• Practice together beforehand

• Review photos together on screen

Religious Head Coverings

If you wear religious head covering, special care is needed.

Requirements:

• Full face must be visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead

• Both edges of face from ear to ear must be shown

• Covering must be worn regularly as part of religious observance

• No shadows should be cast on face

• Face should not be obscured by covering

Types of Coverings:

Hijab:

• Style to ensure full face visible

• Pin securely so it doesn't slip forward

• Ensure no shadows on face or background

• Check that ears and face shape are clear

Sikh Turban:

• Generally acceptable as religious requirement

• Ensure turban doesn't cast shadow on face

• Full face must be visible

• Traditional style typically meets requirements

Jewish Head Coverings:

• Yarmulke (kippah) acceptable

• Must not cover forehead or cast shadows

• Should be worn as part of daily practice

Tips for Head Coverings:

1. Practice styling to meet requirements

2. Use clips or pins to keep secure

3. Position carefully to avoid shadows

4. Light-colored coverings easier (less shadow)