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Guidelines

1. Background

• Stand or sit down against a light background (distance of about 1 metre)
• If you do not have a suitable background, you can always hang up a white bed sheet

2. Camera settings

• The photo you will be using for your passport photos has to be in colour
• Choose the right setting for your camera (most cameras have a 'portrait' setting)
• Use the highest possible resolution
• Turn off the flash
  

3. Camera position

• Take the picture from a distance of about 2 metres
• Zoom in to such an extent that the head covers no more than one third of the image, with equal space below and above the face (see sample photo on the 'Make passport photo' page)
• Keep the camera level and at eye height

4. Lighting

• Preferably take your photo in daylight
• When taking the photo indoors, make sure daylight lights up the face (see Govert de Roos’ video)
• If there is no way round using the flash, be sure to prevent a flash shadow (at least turn on as many lights as possible)

5. Posture and facial expression

• Look straight into the camera
• Eyes have to be fully visible
• Close your mouth
  

6. Hair

• Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes
• The start of the ears has to be visible
• If you have long hair, tuck it behind your ears

7. Clothing

• Make sure your clothes contrast with the background (no white clothes against a white wall)
• Do not wear anything on your head
• Please download official photo guidelines for more detailed information (such as rules concerning the use of religious headwear) about photos for UK passports.

8. Glasses

• If you wear glasses, make sure your eyes are fully visible (i.e. no reflections on glasses)
• In case of doubt, the best thing is to just take off your glasses
• Tinted glasses and sunglasses are not allowed
  

9. Result

• When you have correctly followed these guidelines when taking your photo, you will be able to make the perfect passport photos in 3 clicks
• Any further questions? Check our FAQs