Can There Be Shadows In a Passport Photo?

When it comes to taking that all-important photo for your passport, the last thing you want to worry about is shadows that could cast doubt on the success of your application.

Can There Be Shadows In a Passport Photo?

Read this article to learn about how shadows can affect passport photos and what you can do to ensure your passport photo meets the strict requirements.

Table of contents

Passport Photo With Shadows On the Face: is it Allowed or Not?

Are shadows allowed in passport photos? The simple answer is no. This strict requirement is because shadows can obscure facial features, making it difficult for automated systems and border officials to recognize you.

For a passport photo to be considered valid, it must capture a clear, full-face view with even lighting that does not cast shadows on any part of your face. This means there should be no forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, or neck shadow in the passport photo.

Any variation that prevents clear identification of the passport holder could result in the photo being rejected. So, when taking a photo for your passport, make sure there's even lighting so there are no shadows on the passport photo and your face is well-lit.

Can You Take a Passport Photo With a Shadow in the Background?

When it comes to the background of a passport photo, the rules are just as strict, although the focus is slightly different. While shadows on the face are a clear disqualifier, shadows in the photo's background are also problematic, although sometimes to a lesser degree.

The background of a passport picture must be plain and light-colored, without any patterns or objects, including shadows. A shadow in the background may not directly obscure facial features, but it still violates the uniformity and neutrality required of passport photo backgrounds. The plain background's purpose is to ensure your photo is consistent and has no distracting elements. It is preferable to use a well-lit room with plenty of natural light or balanced artificial lighting to achieve a shadow-free background.

Remember, even a small shadow passport photo can cause your passport photo to be rejected, so it is important to pay attention to lighting and settings when taking the picture.

How to Take a Passport Photo Without Shadows: Professional Tips

Here are some expert recommendations on how to avoid shadows when taking a passport photo:

How to Take a Baby Passport Photo Without a Shadow

Taking a shadow-free passport photo of a baby takes patience and a little creativity. Here are some tips to help you take a compliant baby passport photo:

How to Remove a Shadow From a Passport Photo Background?

If you've taken a passport photo and noticed a shadow in the background, there are a few steps you can take to remove it. However, it's important to proceed with caution, as alterations can sometimes cause the photo to be rejected.

Sometimes it is better to retake the photo under better lighting conditions. This will ensure the photo is natural and free of unauthorized digital alterations. Another option is to use passport photo editing software that removes the background. Make sure the photo still looks natural and not heavily edited.

Edit Your Passport Photo Background and Size Online!

Need a perfect passport photo without leaving your house? Visafoto.com is your go-to! Whether you need a photo with a white, light grey, blue, or red background – and importantly, without any shadows – we’ve got you covered.

Just take a photo with your phone or digital camera against any plain background and upload it to Visafoto.com. We'll adjust the background, and size and even make sure your face is correctly positioned in the photo. Plus, you'll get both a digital version for online submissions and a template for printing.

Our service is easy to use and has a 99.7% success rate. And if you're not satisfied, we offer a full refund.

Take an image with a smartphone or camera against any background, upload it here and instantly get a professional photo for your visa, passport or ID. No registration required. You will see results in seconds.
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Source

Source photo example that you need to take in order to make a passport or visa photo at visafoto.com

Result

Result example: a correct visa or passport photo that you will receive

First, take a photo of yours under daylight like this one:

Passport photo original source

You will have two types of photos: a digital one for electronic applications and another one suitable for printing.

Here they are:

Example of a USA passport photo
USA passport for printing

Passport Photo Maker App

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Select background

Another great Passport photo maker – 7ID by Visafoto.com, a smart app that perfectly edits ID, and passport, whether you're using an iPhone or Android device.

Just upload your photo, select the document and country you need, and let 7ID work do the rest. The app neatly adjusts the background color so no one can tell it's been edited! But it doesn't stop there: the app also takes care of the size, format, and eyeline position. Once your photo is ready, you'll get a digital version for online use and a print-ready template.

For even higher image quality, try 7ID's Expert Mode, which uses advanced technology to fine-tune your photo to perfection, no matter what the original background. And our 24/7 support team is always there to help.

With Visafoto.com and the 7ID app, professional passport photos are just a few clicks away, wherever you are in the world!

Download and install the Visafoto (7ID) app on your phone! Download and install the Visafoto (7ID) app on your phone!

  • Access to complete photo history
  • Support for paid photos through the in-app chat
  • 7ID includes free QR and barcode storage, free PIN code storage, and a free signature maker

Download 7ID App for iOS   Download 7ID App for Android

Visit the 7ID website for more information >

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