Passport Size Photo - A to Z Mega Guide

Face and framing

• Head centered and straight; face fully visible.
• Head height should cover 70 - 80% of the photo height.
• Eyes open and clearly visible; neutral expression preferred.

Background and color

Use white or off-white background. No patterns, textures or objects. Avoid gradients and visible shadows behind the head.

Lighting and color accuracy

• Use even front lighting; avoid side shadows.
• No heavy filters or color shifts. Natural skin tones must remain accurate.
• Avoid red-eye and reflections on glasses.

Clothing and head covering

• Wear plain, dark colored clothes for contrast against a light background.
• Religious head coverings allowed - do not cover the face.
• Glasses not recommended - if necessary ensure no reflection and eyes clearly visible.

Photo quality

• Sharp focus, no blur or pixelation.
• High resolution; avoid excessive compression artifacts.
• Recent photo - preferably taken within last 6 months.

At-home photo - step list

1. Choose a plain wall - 1 to 1.5 m distance from subject to reduce shadows.
2. Use natural daylight or two soft lights at 45 degree angles to the face.
3. Keep camera at eye level - use tripod or steady surface.
4. Ask subject to look straight into the camera with neutral expression.
5. Take multiple shots - check zoomed details for sharpness, eyes and background.

Recommended camera settings

• Resolution: use highest available - 12 MP or higher recommended.
• DPI: 300 DPI for printing - 600 DPI if demanded by authority.
• Format: save original as high-quality JPEG. For upload follow portal instructions.

Crop to correct ratio

Most authorities use 35 x 45 mm (7:9 ratio). Ensure face fits inside the required head-size box - little margin above hair and below chin.

Color & compression

• Use minimal editing - adjust exposure/contrast slightly if needed, do not change skin tone.
• Save as high-quality JPEG. Aim for portal size limits - reduce compression but avoid artifacts.
• Remove red-eye and reflections only if it does not alter facial features.

Printing

• Use professional photo paper and dye-sublimation or minilab printing.
• Print at exact physical size - avoid auto-scaling by the printer.
• Check final print for sharpness and even tone.

Common queries people use when looking for passport photo answers online. Include these phrases in headings and FAQs to improve discoverability.

• Using patterned or dark backgrounds that blend with clothing.
• Heavy makeup or accessories that alter facial features.
• Selfie angles from too low or too high - always straight at eye level.
• Over-compressing JPEGs causing pixelation and artifacts.
• Uploading old photos - keep photos recent (6 months recommendation).