Getting a toddler to sit still for a passport photograph is almost impossible. More often than not, no amount of peek-a-boos or baby talk could get them to stay still, pay attention, and look into the camera long enough to capture a decent photo. It can be very frustrating for both parents and children alike knowing that official regulations regarding passport photos are quite strict. Although they are a bit lenient when it comes to toddler passport photos, the required background, clarity, and positioning must at least be followed.
Photo booths
Passport photo booths have the right settings to produce qualified photographs, however, it may not work as efficiently with toddlers, unless you have a well-behaved 1-year-old. Some parents use regular photo booths to acquire passport photos but these often yield pictures that would not pass regulations.
Professional photo studios
There are photo studios that offer passport photos as one of their services. This is a valid option but it can be quite expensive. It is quite fortunate that even traditional photo studios use digital cameras so at least you get a preview of the photo immediately after the shot, giving you a chance to choose the photos you think would qualify. Also, prints are ready just an hour after the photo session.
Online photo services
One highly recommended place to get baby passport photos is through an online passport photo service. They are knowledgeable about the strict requirements in passport applications for various countries. The process starts with you sending a picture of your baby to them, which they inspect manually to ensure that it conforms to the requirements. Once they see that it is a valid passport photo, they send you the prints through the mail. The great thing about this is that you get to photograph your toddler on your own. The baby is more relaxed around familiar faces and is more likely to stay still for a photograph. Just make sure that when you photograph your child, the background is white and that the baby is wearing dark-colored clothes with sleeves.
