What this tool does, and does not do
Passport and ID photos must meet exact specifications, and getting them wrong means rejection and delay. This tool handles the part that is mechanical: sizing your photo to the correct dimensions for a range of countries, positioning the face within the frame, setting a plain background colour, and laying out a print sheet so you can produce several photos on standard paper.
What it cannot do is judge whether your photo meets the many other requirements that authorities enforce strictly. That distinction is important, so the rest of this explains what those requirements are — because a correctly-sized photo that breaks the other rules will still be rejected.
The requirements that get photos rejected
Head size is the most common failure and the most precisely specified. Authorities define exactly how much of the frame your head must occupy, usually as a measurement from chin to crown, and both too large and too small are rejected. The guide box shown here indicates the approximate area, but check your authority's exact figure.
Expression and pose are strictly controlled. A neutral expression with mouth closed is required almost everywhere; smiles are rejected in most countries now that photos are matched by facial recognition. You must face the camera directly, with both eyes open and visible, and nothing casting shadow across the face.
The background must be plain and evenly lit, in the specified colour — usually white or light grey, though some countries require light blue. No shadows on the background, no objects, no texture. Lighting on the face must be even, without harsh shadows or reflections, which is why photos taken with a phone flash often fail.
Things people overlook
Glasses are increasingly banned outright by many authorities, including the UK and US, because of glare and eye obstruction — a rule that surprises people who have worn glasses in previous photos. Head coverings are permitted only for religious or medical reasons, and even then the full face must be visible. Hair must not cover the eyes. The photo must be recent, typically within the last six months, and must genuinely look like you.
Why digital submission changes things
Many countries now accept or require digital photos for online applications, each with its own pixel dimensions, file size limits and format rules. Others still require a printed photo. Check which your application uses before you start, since the requirements differ. This tool produces a high-resolution image suitable for printing at 300 dots per inch, which is the standard for photographic printing.
The print sheet
Official passport photos are expensive per pair, so printing your own on a 4 by 6 inch photo sheet — a standard, cheap print size — saves money if you have several applications or need spares. The sheet lays out as many correctly-sized photos as fit, which you cut apart after printing. Use a photo print service or photo paper rather than plain paper for an acceptable result.
The honest caveat
Requirements vary by country and change over time, and they are enforced strictly because these photos are security documents. This tool is a convenience for sizing and positioning; it does not certify compliance. Always verify the current, specific requirements published by the authority you are applying to, and when the stakes are high, a professional photographer who does passport photos removes the risk entirely.
Processed in your browser
Your photo is never uploaded. All sizing and layout happen on your device, which matters for what is, after all, a photo of your face destined for an identity document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this guarantee my photo will be accepted?
No. It sizes and positions the photo correctly, but cannot judge head size precision, expression, lighting or background compliance, which authorities enforce strictly.
Can I wear glasses?
Increasingly no. Many authorities including the UK and US now ban glasses in passport photos because of glare and eye obstruction. Check your authority's current rule.
Why are smiles not allowed?
Photos are matched by facial recognition, which needs a neutral expression. A neutral face with mouth closed is required almost everywhere now.
What background colour should I use?
Usually white or light grey, but some countries require light blue. The background must be plain, evenly lit and free of shadows. Check your specific requirement.
Are my photos uploaded?
No. All processing happens in your browser, which matters for a photo of your face intended for an identity document.