Baby Passport Photo Guide

    Quick tip: The biggest challenge with baby photos is getting both eyes open and looking at the camera. Most rejections are due to closed eyes or the baby looking away. Take many shots!

    Do
    • Both eyes open and visible
    • Neutral expression (mouth closed if possible)
    • Looking directly at camera
    • Plain white or light grey background
    • Good, even lighting on face
    • Clear, sharp image
    Don't
    • Hands or other people visible
    • Toys, dummies, or pacifiers
    • Closed or partially closed eyes
    • Crying, laughing, or yawning
    • Shadows on face or background
    • Head tilted or turned

    Tips for Taking Baby Passport Photos at Home

    Lay baby on plain sheet

    Place baby on a plain white or light grey sheet on a flat surface. Photograph from directly above for easier positioning.

    Use natural window light

    Position near a large window for soft, even lighting. Avoid harsh sunlight or flash which causes shadows.

    Get help from another adult

    One person can hold the baby's attention with a toy (off-camera) while the other takes the photo.

    Take many photos

    Babies are unpredictable. Take 20-30 photos and choose the best one where eyes are open and expression is calm.

    Time it right

    Try after feeding when baby is alert but calm. Avoid nap times or when baby is fussy.

    Use burst mode

    Most phones have burst mode - hold the shutter to capture multiple shots and catch that perfect moment.

    Age-Specific Guidance

    0-6 months

    Lay flat on white sheet. Eyes open is the main challenge. Support head from behind if needed.

    6-18 months

    Can sit with support. Use a car seat against white backdrop, or lay flat. Watch for grabbing the background.

    18+ months

    Can sit independently. Main challenge is keeping still and neutral expression. Make it a game.

    Got a photo? Let us process it

    Upload your baby's photo and we'll remove the background, crop to the correct size, and ensure it meets all requirements.

    Create Baby Photo

    Taking a passport photo of a baby or infant is challenging. Babies can't sit still, maintain a neutral expression, or look directly at the camera on command. Yet passport authorities still require photos that meet specific technical standards.

    This guide explains the special rules that apply to baby passport photos, common mistakes that lead to rejection, and practical tips for taking a compliant photo at home. You can also upload a photo to check if it meets requirements.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    No, both eyes should be open and visible. For very young babies (under 1 month), slight allowances may be made, but it's best to capture them with eyes open.

    No hands, arms, or other people should be visible in the photo. You can support the baby from behind with a plain white sheet covering your hands, or lay them on a plain background.

    Ideally yes, but small allowances are made for babies. The mouth should be closed if possible, and the baby shouldn't be crying or laughing.

    Lay the baby on a plain white or light grey sheet on a flat surface, then photograph from directly above. This makes it easier to get the correct head position and background.

    No, nothing should be visible except the baby against a plain background. No toys, dummies/pacifiers, hands, or other objects.

    Baby appearances change rapidly. For travel, your photo should reasonably resemble your baby's current appearance. Many parents renew baby passports more frequently.

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