When it comes to taking passport photos, there are a lot of rules that seem like common sense: take a color photo, don’t wear sunglasses, and face the camera. But what a lot of people — especially new parents — don’t always realize is that taking a baby passport photo can create some unforeseen challenges. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when taking a passport photo of your infant or toddler:
1. You can’t be in the photo with your baby. Even if your face is out of frame, you can’t have hands, arms or any visible body parts holding your baby up. This means that you’ll have to find another way to keep your baby supported, especially if you have a newborn. The U.S. Department of State website suggests laying your baby on a white or off-white sheet on his or her back, or covering a car seat with a sheet and propping the baby up that way.
2. Don’t stress about keeping your baby’s eyes open. While adults and young children must have their eyes open and facing the camera, it is acceptable for infants, especially newborns, to have their eyes partially or even fully closed.
3. Childhood growth doesn’t count as significant change in appearance. The State Department does require you to apply for a new passport when your appearance has changed dramatically, but the normal aging process of children under the age of 16 is exempt from this rule.
4. Watch out for shadows. If you are taking a passport picture of your child from above with the baby on his or her back, it can be easy to cast an accidental shadow over the baby’s face, which can lead to your photo being rejected. Using a flash can help minimize overhead shadow, but an even better way to reduce shadow is to have two additional light sources: one on either side of your baby. Having light from multiple angles is the best way to achieve a child passport photo without shadow.
Ultimately, you know your baby and the best way to get him or her to sit still for a passport photo, but keeping these tips in mind should help make the picture taking process go more smoothly.
