A baby’s passport does more than prove that a child is from a particular country and has the right to travel outside that country’s borders. A passport makes it possible for officials to confirm a baby’s identity and the rights of certain adults to travel with that baby. For this reason, it’s critical that the passport photo clearly identifies your baby in recognizable ways.
Which clothing options work best to allow you to get a high-quality photo for your baby’s passport?
Non-reflective materials
Reflective threads, glittery paint and gem or metal decorations can create a camera flare that makes your baby’s photo unusable. They can also add shadows to the photo that alter skin tone and make birthmarks less defined against the skin. Keep in mind, reflective materials include certain accessories, such as shiny barrettes, earrings and necklaces.
Solid colors
Patterns can create a “busy” photo that draws attention away from a baby’s unique features, such as identifying birthmarks. Additionally, certain bright-colored patterns, especially ones that feature orange, red and yellow colors, can make your baby’s skin tone in the photo inaccurate.
Darker shades
The background for a passport photo is typically white or grey. As a result, it’s best to choose a color that won’t blend into the background. If your baby’s skin isn’t extremely pale, you also need to pick a solid, darker shade that doesn’t cause your baby’s skin tone to appear too pale.
Open collar (optional)
Many babies have identifying marks like moles on the front of their necks and chests. Since the bottom of your baby’s passport photo cuts off below the shoulders, always make certain that the top portion of any outfit shows your child’s bare neck and upper chest. If your child has no discernible marks in these areas, then don’t worry.
Final considerations
The best baby passport photos show babies smiling and happy. Always pick comfortable clothing. Also, the outfit should be the same type and style you normally put on your baby. Lastly, a lot of parents like to take photos of babies wearing beanies or other styles of hats, especially with babies who aren’t yet a year old. Your baby’s head must remain uncovered for the photo.
For more information about this and other topics related to preparing passport photos for babies, contact our expert team at Paspic.com. We handle thousands of passport photo requests yearly and know the tricks for taking the best photos of adults and children.
