Do you need a new ID photo for your Canadian passport application? Or do you need a picture for your travel documents? Then you’ve opened the right page. Here, you’ll find 8 tips to make passport photos for both adults and babies. Once you figure out how to take and how to print passport photos at home, you won’t have to visit a professional studio ever again.
As you explore the tips below, you’ll see how convenient it is to prepare your pictures yourself. Taking your ID photos at home is not only budget-friendly but also easy and quick. And if you need images for other family members as well, it will also let you spend some quality time together and have fun. So, let’s see what you need to consider to make perfect passport photos.
1. Using a Camera or a Smartphone
Most modern smartphones have excellent cameras that can capture high-quality images. If you have a digital camera, that works too! The key is to set your camera to the highest resolution possible. This way, your photo will be clear and sharp, which is essential for ID photos.
When you’re ready to take the photo, make sure to hold the camera steady. If you have a tripod, that’s even better! It will help you avoid blurry images.
2. Background for Passport Photos
According to passport photo specifications, you need to take a picture with a plain white or light-colored background. If you’re going to travel by car and need to renew the driver license, your photo also has to be taken with this kind of background. But you probably don’t have a professional backdrop at home – it’s okay. You can replace it with a white bed sheet or simply take a passport photo in front of a plain wall.
Also, there shouldn’t be any shadows in the background. So, choose the right angle to avoid them while shooting. Can’t find anything suitable? Then add a white background to your picture in post-production – this will take you just a couple of minutes.
3. Distance Between the Person and the Camera
When taking a passport photo, you should stand about four to six feet away from the camera. This distance allows the camera to capture your entire face and shoulders without distortion. Make sure to frame the photo so that your head and shoulders are centered in the shot. Your face should take up about 70-80% of the height of the photo.
4. Lighting for Taking Passport Photos
Natural light is often the best option, so try to take your photo near a window during the day. Avoid harsh sunlight, as it can create shadows on your face. Instead, aim for soft, diffused light. If you’re taking the photo indoors, you can also use lamps to brighten the area, but make sure the light is even and not too bright.
By the way, using a flash is a no-no. It makes photos look less professional and, most importantly, it’s prohibited according to the specifications. For more information, check out these tips to take good passport photos.
5. Facial Expression
Another important aspect you should consider is facial expression. Just relax your face and keep your mouth closed. Your eyes should be open and looking straight at the camera. As for babies, it can be a bit tricky. You can try to take the photo when they are calm and happy. It’s a good idea to hold a toy or make sounds to get their attention. Just remember to keep the expression neutral.
6. Taking Baby Photos Correctly
If you have to take photos of newborns for some documents, you can lay them on a plain white blanket or sheet. While shooting, you need to make sure the baby is comfortable and that hands are not visible in the picture if someone holds him or her.
Some people also use a car seat to take passport photos of newborns. However, car seats can create shadows around the baby’s ears, in the background, or on the baby’s face and shoulders. If your baby is a bit older and can sit up, you can have them sit against a plain background.
There are a few other requirements your picture has to meet: the baby must be clothed, their mouth should be closed, and their eyes need to be open.
7. Clothes and Makeup
Whether you’re renewing your passport or need to apply for travel documents for visiting Canada, you should be careful picking your outfit for your ID photos. A simple shirt or blouse works well. If you wear makeup, keep it natural and light – you should avoid heavy makeup that might significantly change your appearance.
To dress kids or a baby, it’s better to choose clothes that are comfortable and appropriate. Avoid hats or accessories that might cover their face. If you’re taking a photo of a newborn, just have them dressed in something simple and neat.
8. No Blinking
Can’t stop blinking? Then you can count down from three before taking the shot. This trick gives you a moment to prepare. It’s also recommended to take a deep breath and relax before you take a photo.
Summary
Now you know more about making a picture for a Canadian passport or other documents. If you need more information about travel documents, you can also visit the official website of the Government of Canada.
By following the tips from this article, you’ll have your ID photos for your whole family ready in no time, and you can feel proud knowing you did it all by yourself. So, it’s time to grab your camera or smartphone, set up your background, and start snapping away!
