Your baby’s passport photo has the same kinds of requirements as a regular adult passport photo. One of those requirements is that only your baby is permitted to be in the photo. You can’t be in the passport photo holding your baby in your arms or even have your hands in the photo. This becomes a tricky requirement for babies who are not yet able to hold themselves in a sitting position, especially when the passport photo place only has a high stool for them to sit on. Here are some tips for propping your baby up for their passport photo.
1. Use cushioning
Lay cushions or pillows on the floor around the chair or stool to make the environment safer for your baby. If you lose balance there will be a soft place. The cushioning will also help you as you have to sit or kneel as you hold your baby.
2. Understand the photo perimeters
Ask the passport photographer to show or tell you exactly where the bottom photo border will be. This will let you know precisely where you can hold your baby without having your hands show up in the passport photo.
3. Bring a support ring
If your baby will be seated on a wide enough stool, you may be able to use a baby support ring, commonly known as a Bobby pillow. This will help position your baby on the stool.
4. Kneel down to hold your baby
For the actual photograph, kneel down behind your baby and tuck your head down when the photographer states he’s ready to take the photo. Ask him to make sure the top of your head is not seen behind your baby.
5. Position your hands
Place one hand firmly on your baby’s back to support their upright position. Keep one or two fingers behind your baby’s head to help with support there. Place the other hand around the lower part of your baby’s waist to prevent your baby from leaning forward.
Propping your baby up for the passport photo is a little awkward, but it only lasts for a few minutes. The important thing is now your baby will be free to travel with you and your spouse.
