Lighting

Natural Light

Natural light is your best friend for passport photos. Position yourself facing a large window—never with the window behind you. The soft, diffused light creates even illumination without harsh shadows.

• 1Best time is 10 AM to 2 PM when sunlight is bright but indirect
• 2Cloudy days are ideal—overcast skies act as a natural diffuser
• 3Face the window directly, not at an angle
• 4Avoid direct sunlight streaming through the window

Artificial Light

When natural light isn't available, you can achieve excellent results with artificial lighting. The key is even distribution from the front, not above or to the side.

• 1Use two light sources on either side of the camera for balance
• 2LED panels or ring lights work well for even illumination
• 3Avoid using only overhead room lights—they create under-eye shadows
• 4If using a single light, bounce it off a white wall or ceiling

"The right light can make or break your photo"

Shadow Prevention

Shadows are one of the most common reasons for photo rejection. They can obscure facial features and make biometric verification difficult.

• 1Stand 2–3 feet away from the wall to prevent background shadows
• 2Ensure light hits your face evenly from the front
• 3Check for shadows under your nose, chin, and eye sockets
• 4A slight upward angle of light helps reduce under-eye shadows

Pro Tips

Small adjustments make a big difference. Take a few test shots before your final photo to dial in the perfect setup.

• 1Never use flash—it causes red-eye and harsh, unnatural shadows
• 2Clean your camera lens for sharper results
• 3Turn off overhead lights if using window light to avoid mixed color temperatures
• 4Use a tripod or stable surface to prevent blur