Set up the photo
Lay your baby on a plain white or off-white sheet, or seat an older child in front of a plain light wall. Use bright, even light and avoid hard shadows on the face or background.
Take several options
- Keep the camera level with the face or directly above a baby lying down.
- Keep hands, toys, pacifiers, and other people out of the photo.
- Take many photos so you can choose the sharpest one with the best expression.
- Make sure the full face is visible and the child is facing the camera.
Check before you print
Upload the best photo to check common issues, crop it to a 2x2 passport-style photo, and create a 4x6 sheet for standard photo printing.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Textured or dark blanket in the background.
- A visible parent hand or support in the final image.
- Motion blur from a moving toddler.
- The head too small, too large, or tilted in the frame.
- Strong shadows around the head or under the chin.
Source: U.S. passport photo requirements