Common Mistakes

Flash Problems

Using flash is one of the most common mistakes. It creates harsh shadows, uneven lighting, and the dreaded red-eye effect.

• 1Never use your camera's built-in flash
• 2Red-eye from flash can cause rejection
• 3Flash creates harsh shadows behind you
• 4Use natural or continuous artificial light instead

Filters & Editing

Any digital manipulation of your photo can result in rejection. This includes filters, beauty modes, and even basic retouching.

• 1Turn off all beauty filters and portrait modes
• 2Don't use Instagram or Snapchat filters
• 3Avoid apps that smooth skin or adjust features
• 4Submit the photo as-is from your camera

"Most rejections are easily preventable"

Resolution Issues

Low-resolution photos appear pixelated or blurry when printed or zoomed. This makes facial features difficult to verify.

• 1Use your phone's highest quality camera setting
• 2Aim for at least 600×600 pixels minimum
• 3Don't crop too aggressively—it reduces resolution
• 4Clean your camera lens to avoid blurriness

Selfie Problems

While technically possible, selfies often have issues that lead to rejection. The front camera is lower quality, and arm visibility is a problem.

• 1Visible arm or phone reflection causes rejection
• 2Front cameras have more distortion than rear cameras
• 3Use a timer and tripod instead of holding the phone
• 4Better yet, have someone else take the photo