The goal of this article is not to overwhelm you and provide a short quick guide on what to keep in mind when taking your passport photo. International Civil Aviation Organization has published an official document on international standards that is 85 pages long. We summerized it in the following bullet points of DO’s and DONT’s.
DOs and DONTs about taking a passport photo
DOs
- Wear a dark shirt,
- Wear light “matte” make up,
- Choose light grey or white background,
- Remove hair from face,
- Both ears and face can be fully seen,
- Highly advised to take off glasses,
- Close mouth and keep a neutral face expression,
- Natural daylight will be the best lighting,
- Ask a friend or family member to take a photo with rear camera for a better result,
- Relax.
DONTs
- People tend open their eyes unnaturally wide,
- Avoid too excessive make up,
- No hats or scarfs covering hair (except for religious reasons),
- No excessive accessories (facial adornments, big earrings, piercings),
- Don’t touch your face – only head, neck, shoulders can be seen,
- Don’t slack, sit straight,
- Avoid shadow in picture.
Read full article on passport photo guide here.
