Technical Specifications

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Dimensions

  • Minimum: 600x600 pixels
  • Maximum: 1200x1200 pixels
  • Must be square (1:1 aspect ratio)
  • Head height: 50-69% of image height
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File Format

  • Format: JPEG only (.jpg, .jpeg)
  • Maximum size: 240KB
  • Color depth: 24-bit
  • No compression artifacts
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Background

  • Color: White or off-white
  • Plain, no patterns or textures
  • No shadows on background
  • Even lighting throughout
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Recency

  • Taken within 6 months
  • Current appearance
  • No significant changes
  • Recent hairstyle/facial hair

Photo Composition Requirements

Head Position and Size

  • Head height: Must be between 50% and 69% of the total image height
  • Positioning: Head centered horizontally in the frame
  • Eye level: Eyes should be between 56% and 69% from the bottom of the photo
  • Full face: Both ears visible (unless obscured by religious head covering)

Facial Expression

  • Neutral expression: Natural, relaxed face
  • Mouth: Closed or with natural, unexaggerated smile
  • Eyes: Open and looking directly at camera
  • No extreme expressions: No laughing, frowning, or surprised looks

Camera Angle

  • Straight-on: Camera at same level as subject's face
  • No tilting: Head must not be tilted to either side
  • Direct gaze: Looking straight into the camera lens

Clothing and Accessories

Eyeglasses

⚠️
Glasses are NOT recommended. If you must wear glasses:
  • No reflections or glare on lenses
  • Eyes clearly visible through lenses
  • No tinted or colored lenses
  • Frame must not obstruct eyes

Head Coverings

  • Generally not allowed except for religious purposes
  • Religious coverings: Must not obscure face from hairline to chin
  • Full face visible: From forehead to bottom of chin
  • Both ears visible unless covered for religious reasons

Clothing Guidelines

  • Avoid white: May blend with background
  • Solid colors: Work best for contrast
  • No uniforms: Avoid military, airline, or other uniforms
  • Professional attire: Business casual recommended

Top 10 Common Mistakes

1

Incorrect Dimensions

Photo is not square or below 600x600 pixels minimum

2

Wrong File Format

Submitted as PNG, GIF, or other format instead of JPEG

3

File Too Large

Photo exceeds 240KB maximum file size

4

Glasses Reflections

Light reflecting off eyeglass lenses

5

Wrong Background

Colored, patterned, or shadowed background

6

Head Too Small/Large

Head doesn't occupy 50-69% of image height

7

Poor Lighting

Shadows on face or uneven lighting

8

Old Photo

Photo taken more than 6 months ago

9

Wrong Expression

Smiling too much, frowning, or unusual expression

10

Digital Alterations

Excessive editing, filters, or retouching

Professional Photo Tips

DIY Photo Setup

  • Use a tripod: Ensure camera stability and consistent height
  • White wall/sheet: Simple, plain white background
  • Natural lighting: Stand facing a window with soft, even light
  • Avoid flash: Can cause harsh shadows and red eyes
  • Multiple shots: Take several photos and choose the best

Smartphone Photography

  • Use rear camera: Better quality than front-facing camera
  • Square mode: Enable square photo mode if available
  • Distance: Stand about 4 feet away from subject
  • Eye level: Hold camera at subject's eye level
  • Clean lens: Wipe camera lens before shooting

Professional vs DIY Photos

Professional Photography

✅ Advantages

  • Guaranteed compliance
  • Professional lighting setup
  • Experience with requirements
  • Immediate retakes if needed

❌ Disadvantages

  • Higher cost ($15-50)
  • Need to schedule appointment
  • Travel to location

DIY Photography

✅ Advantages

  • Free (except printing)
  • Take at home
  • Multiple attempts
  • Control over timing

❌ Disadvantages

  • Risk of technical errors
  • Need proper setup
  • Requires validation