How to take your baby’s first passport photo
Editor's Note
There are a lot of things to consider when preparing to get your baby's first passport. You need to find the right documentation, fill out the correct forms and find an appointment time that won't wreck the baby's nap schedule. On top of that, you have to capture a passport photo that will get the U.S. Department of State's stamp of approval.
You can't use just any photo, no matter how cute. There are certain rules you need to follow that can sometimes seem at odds with how your baby wants to behave.
We've compiled a list of the official passport photo rules plus some tried-and-true tips for taking your baby's perfect passport photo.
Official US passport photo rules
The State Department has seven official rules for taking a passport photo:
- Submit one color photo.
- Submit a recent photo taken in the last six months.
- Use a clear image of your face.
- Do not change your photo using computer software, phone apps or filters, or artificial intelligence.
- Have someone else take your photo. No selfies.
- Take off your eyeglasses for your photo.
- Use a white or off-white background without shadows, texture or lines.
Photos must be 2 inches by 2 inches (51 millimeters by 51 millimeters) with the head centered and sized between 1 inch and 1.4 inches (25 millimeters and 35 millimeters). If you already have an acceptable photo but it isn't the right size, there's a tool on the State Department's website you can use to crop it.
For babies, the State Department gives additional guidance. Because your baby can't stand against a plain white background, it is acceptable to lay your baby down on, or cover a car seat with, a plain white or off-white sheet.
Related: Why you should renew your child's 5-year passport after 4 years
It's important that nothing — including your child's hands, glasses, hat or pacifier — blocks your child's face. If their hand is covering their mouth, they have a pacifier in or they are sticking out their tongue, the photo will not be accepted.
The photo must also be clear with no shadows. Blurry or grainy photos will not be accepted.
The State Department will, however, accept your photo submission if your baby's eyes are not entirely open. (This rule does not apply to older children.)
Taking your baby's passport photo at home vs. in store
You have a few options when deciding where to take your baby's passport photo. Some of the passport acceptance facilities where you can turn in your passport application also offer on-site photo services. These include post offices, libraries and other local government facilities. This option allows you to get your baby's photo taken and turn in their passport application in one stop.
Several businesses, including the UPS Store, Walgreens and CVS, will take your baby's passport photo for you, should you require it. They will usually provide you with two printed copies, and some will also provide you with a digital copy. You can submit one of the printed photos with your baby's application.
Many require an appointment and charge a fee for this service. Before loading your baby into the car, verify whether you need an appointment or will be required to pay a fee in addition to your passport application fee.
Related: Easy ways to check your passport application status
These providers should be familiar with the guidelines for taking your baby's passport photo, but it's a smart idea to be prepared with the photo requirements and size specifications, just in case. You might also bring along a white sheet as a safety measure in case they don't have anything available.
If you are nervous about getting an acceptable photo on your own, your best option may be to have someone else take it. The businesses and government facilities mentioned above should have ample experience with the rules, and they will know when they've taken a "good" photo. Many also use a system that automatically verifies that your photos meet State Department requirements.
Tips for taking your baby's passport photo at home
You also have the option to take your baby's passport photo at home. In addition to the official guidance mentioned above, here are a few tips that will help you get an acceptable photo with as few tears (from you and your baby) as possible:
- Lay your baby on a white sheet or place a white sheet on a high chair or car seat if they are more cooperative sitting up than lying down for the photo.
- Stand far enough away from your baby that you aren't casting a shadow, and you can capture their head and chest in the center of the frame.
- Opt for soft lightning that isn't so bright it casts shadows on your baby's face or causes them to close their eyes.
- If your baby is lying down, place a towel or small breastfeeding pillow under the white sheet to help support their neck and keep them looking forward.
- Talk to them or use a toy to keep their eyes open while you snap the photos.
- Take more photos than you think you need so that you have plenty of options.
- If possible, have a friend or family member stand by to assist you. One of you can take photos, and the other can make sure the baby is in the right position and paying attention.
- The State Department has its own cropping tool so you can properly size your photos before printing them at home on matte or glossy photo paper. Several businesses, including Amazon, offer passport photo printing services if you don't have a printer or photo paper at home.
Bottom line
Taking your baby's passport photo isn't as scary as it sounds. With these tips and a little patience, you'll have the perfect passport photo (and likely hundreds of outtakes) in no time.
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