Baby Passport Photo: Top Tips to Get It Right the First Time

Do you have a child or baby and want to start traveling? Have you prepared the necessary documents to get them their first passport? If you’re wondering how to get a passport photo for an infant, baby, or child then keep reading to find out the easiest and most affordable way to accomplish it!

In this article, we will discuss how you can get your baby’s passport photo taken at a local store or by using the Smartphone iD app at your own home.

Last update:12/1/2024

What are the requirements for a Canadian baby passport photo?

A passport photo must meet the requirements set by the passport processing office. 

General Specifications

  1. Size: The photo must measure 50 mm wide x 70 mm high (2 inches wide x 2 3/4 inches high).
    • The face height must be between 31 mm and 36 mm (from chin to crown).
  2. Color: Photos must be in color and printed on high-quality photo paper with a matte or semi-matte finish.
  3. Lighting:
    • The photo should have even lighting with no shadows on the face or background.
    • The baby’s skin tone should appear natural.
  4. Background:
    • The background must be plain white or light-colored.
    • No patterns, objects, or shadows should appear in the background.

Baby-Specific Guidelines

  1. Pose:
    • The baby must face the camera directly with their head centered and eyes open.
    • Both ears must be visible. However, slightly closed eyes are acceptable for infants under 6 months.
  2. Expression:
    • A neutral expression is required (no smiling, frowning, or crying).
  3. Support:
    • If the baby cannot sit upright, they can be photographed lying down on a white sheet or propped in a car seat covered with a plain white blanket.
    • The hands of the parent or guardian used for support must not be visible.
  4. Clothing:
    • The baby should wear clothing that contrasts with the background. Avoid white or light-colored tops.
  5. Headgear: No hats, headbands, or coverings unless for religious or medical reasons.

Technical Requirements

  1. Photo Quality:
    • The photo must be clear and in focus with no pixelation or blurriness.
    • No alterations, filters, or retouching of the baby’s face or features.
  2. Printed Photos:
    • The photo must be on high-resolution photo paper.
    • Photos taken at home should meet professional quality standards.
  3. Timeframe:
    • The photo must be taken within the last six months.

Additional Notes for newborns

  • For babies under 3 months, closed mouths are acceptable even if the lips are slightly parted.
  • You will need two identical photos submitted with your application, one signed by a guarantor to confirm the likeness of the baby.

Requirements for the Back of Your Child’s Passport Photo

One of your child’s passport photos must include important details on the back. The photographer must write or stamp the photo’s date and the studio’s full name and address. Your guarantor must write, “I certify this to be a true likeness of [child’s name],” and sign it clearly to validate the photo for the application.

Pro Tip

Take the photo at a trusted online service familiar with Canadian passport photos standars like smartphone iD to avoid rejection. Ensure it follows these guidelines to prevent application delays.

These are only some of the requirements that are needed to successfully take a passport photo. The smartphone iD app will help to make sure that the photo meets these requirements and is verified by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Examples of accepted and rejected baby passport photos

To help you understand what makes a suitable passport photo for your baby, we’ve provided examples of both accepted and rejected photos.

Please note that the dimensions of these baby passport photos are not exact; they are provided for illustrative purposes only.

Below, you’ll find some examples of accepted baby passport photos by the UK passport office:

Baby passport Photos: Accepted and Rejected-Example 1

From left to right: Good ID photo; dark background;holding a toy

Reasons for Rejection and Our Advice

  • Holding a toy:The baby must not hold any toy or object in their hands.
  • Non-uniform or overly dark background: The background must be light, uniform, and shadow-free.

Baby passport Photos: Accepted and Rejected-Example 2

From left to right:The child crying,Hand in front of the face,open mouth,Good ID photo

Reasons for Rejection and Our Advice

  • Looking Away: The baby must face forward and look directly at the camera lens.
  • Inappropriate Expression:The baby must have a neutral expression—no crying, laughing, or frowning.
  • Open Mouth:The baby’s mouth must be closed in the photo. An open mouth is not acceptable.

Baby ID Photos: Accepted and Rejected-Example 3

From left to right:Good ID photo ,The Pacifier in mouth;Hand in front of the baby’s body

Reasons for Rejection and Our Advice

  • Object in the Mouth:Pacifiers, bottles, or any other objects in the baby’s mouth are not allowed.
  • Visible Hands The baby’s hands, parents’ hands, or any other hands should not appear in the photo

5 mistakes to avoid on your baby’s passport photo

When taking your baby’s passport photo, there are several common mistakes that you should be aware of to ensure your photo is accepted:

  1. Busy or patterned background: Ensure that the background is plain and light-colored, without any distracting patterns or objects.
  2. Incorrect head size or positioning: Your baby’s head should be centered in the photo and occupy between 29mm and 34mm from the bottom of their chin to the top of their head.
  3. Obscured facial features: Make sure that your baby’s face is clearly visible, without any clothing, accessories, or toys obscuring their features.
  4. Inappropriate facial expressions: Your baby should have a neutral expression in the photo, with their eyes open and mouth closed. Avoid photos where your baby is crying, smiling, or making other exaggerated expressions.
  5. Poor lighting or low-quality images: Use a well-lit environment and a high-quality camera to ensure that your baby’s passport photo is clear, sharp, and meets the necessary resolution requirements.

What is the cost of a Canadian baby passport photo?

A baby’s passport will cost the same amount as an adult’s photo. This will greatly depend on the service or tool you choose to use for taking the photo.

Having your passport photo taken at Walmart of London Drugs will cost around $10 to $15 CAD, whereas using an online service like Smartphone iD will be much more affordable.

Where can you get your baby’s passport photo taken?

A baby can have their passport photo taken at a selection of Canadian stores and retail locations. Some stores will not offer baby passport photography services, so make sure to check with the location before going for an appointment.

Stores that offer baby passport photos:

  • London Drugs
  • Staples
  • UPS

Stores that don’t offer baby passport photos:

  • Walmart

our online service that offers baby passport photo

How to take a baby passport photo at home and with your phone? 

baby passport photo at home

The most efficient and affordable way to have a baby’s passport photo taken is through the Smartphone iD app. This app can be downloaded on the Apple or Google Play store. It is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. 

  1. Use the Smartphone iD online ID photo tool by clicking the “Take a Photo” button
  2. Select Canada as the desired country for the passport.
  3. Follow the directions provided by Smartphone iD to take your passport photo.
  4. Have the photo either emailed to your inbox or printed and posted to your home.

The process is that easy! Smartphone iD offers the ability to take your passport photo from the comfort of your own home at an unbeatable price. Here are some of the benefits that Smartphone iD guarantees: 

  • In-app editing, resizing, background removal and more!
  • Take your baby’s passport photo from the comfort of your own home.
  • Verification from the International Civil Aviation Agency
  • The most affordable passport photo option.

Tips to Take Baby Passport Photos at Home

Taking your baby’s passport photo at home can be quick and easy as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Here are our top tips:

  • Make sure the photo is taken against a plain, light-coloured background. A white wall or sheet is ideal.
  • The baby should be facing the camera directly, with a clear view of their face. You can dangle a toy in front of the camera to keep their attention for the photo.
  • Ensure there is plenty of light, but avoid direct flash, as this can cause glare. Natural light is best.
  • Use a ruler or other straight edge to help keep the baby’s head in a level position. This will ensure the photo meets the requirements for passport photos.
  • Take the photo from slightly above the baby so their head is not cut off in the frame.
  • Make sure the baby’s mouth is closed, and there are no objects obscuring their face.

Passport Photos For your baby, newborn or child with Smartphone iD – What you will get?

1. Photo Template Of 6 Official Passport Photos

canada baby passport photo

Our application allows you to create a photo template containing up to six official baby passport photos that fully comply with current standards.

2. Acceptance guarantee

We are proud to offer an acceptance guarantee for photos taken with our application.

We use a combination of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and human expertise, to carefully check each photo.

This rigorous verification guarantees that the photos fully comply with the required identity standards.

With our application, you can be sure to get high-quality identity photos that meet the strictest standards and are ready to be used with confidence in various official applications.

In summary

Babies and infants will need to have their passport photos taken the same as adults. They have some flexibility in the photo criteria and passport offices will accept a range of facial positions.

Some stores will not take passport photos for infants, but the Smartphone iD app allows baby photos at quick and affordable prices. Don’t wait to start travelling and get your photo done today!

FAQs

Do Canadian babies and Newborns need a passport photo?

Yes, Canadian babies need to have their passport photos taken. The rules that apply to adults are the same as for children or babies. The only exception is that babies do not have to have their mouths entirely closed for the photo.

A newborn is between the ages of 0 – 2 months old. In this case, the passport application process does not change. A newborn will still need to get their passport photo taken for processing. Although, the same exceptions apply, and their photo can have the mouth slightly open.

Can newborns travel without a passport?

In Canada, newborns cannot travel internationally without a passport, even if they are included in their parents’ travel plans. Each individual, regardless of age, requires their own passport for international travel.

At what age do babies need a passport?

All Canadian children, regardless of age, need a passport to travel internationally.

Where can I take my baby’s passport?

A baby’s passport photo can be taken using the Smartphone iD tool. Use our online Canadian id photo tool and follow the instructions provided. This is the quickest and easiest way to get their passport photo.

you can also take your baby’s passport photo at London Drugs, Staples, some UPS stores..

What colour should my baby wear for a passport photo?

It’s best to choose darker colours for a passport photo. This ensures that the baby will stand out against the lighter background of the photo. 

Can a baby’s mouth be open in a passport photo?

The passport office will allow a baby’s mouth to be open slightly for the photo. However, it’s recommended to have the baby eat food during the photo to try and capture an image with their mouth closed. 

How do I take a passport photo for my baby?

  • Background: Use a plain white background.
  • Lighting: Avoid shadows on the baby’s face.
  • Pose: Baby should look directly at the camera with a neutral expression.
  • Clothing: Simple, light-colored clothing.
  • Accessories: No hats or head coverings unless for religious reasons.

Do shoppers take an infant passport photo?

Yes, Shoppers Drug Mart stores in Canada can take passport photos for babies and infants

What should a baby wear for a passport picture?

Simple, light-colored clothing that doesn’t have patterns or logos.

Do babies need pictures for a passport?

Yes, all passport applicants, including infants, need a photo that meets specific guidelines.

Sources

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/photos.html

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