How to Take a Passport Photo for a Child (Under 16)
Children's passport photos follow all the same rules as adult photos — but getting a compliant shot of a wriggling, smiling, blinking child is a genuine challenge. Here's how to do it efficiently at home.
The Rules (Same as Adults)
- Plain white or off-white background
- Face fully visible, no hands or bodies of adults
- Eyes open and looking at the camera
- Neutral expression (no big smiles)
- Head straight, no tilt
- No toys, dummies, or pacifiers in the photo
- Photo taken within the last 6 months
By Age Group
Newborns (0–3 months)
The hardest group. Lay flat method works best — see our baby passport photo guide for full detail.
Babies (3–12 months)
- Car seat covered with white blanket
- Propped on a white surface with rolled blankets for support
- Shoot from their eye level, not looking down
Toddlers (1–3 years)
- Seat them in a plain white or light chair
- Have a second adult hold a toy or make noise just above the camera to get them looking forward
- Shoot in burst mode — you only need one good frame
- Bribe freely
Children (4–10 years)
- Easier — they can understand and follow simple instructions
- Explain what you need: "Look at this dot, don't smile, eyes open"
- Take multiple shots in case of blinks
Pre-teens (11–15 years)
- Treat exactly like an adult
- May need reminding not to smile
- May want to check the photo before you submit — let them
Setting Up the Shot
Background
- Plain white wall — clean of any decorations or marks near head level
- Or tape a large white sheet/poster board to a wall
Lighting
- Natural window light is ideal — seat the child facing the window
- Overcast daylight gives even, shadow-free light
- Avoid flash — it startles children and creates harsh shadows
Camera
- Any modern smartphone camera is sufficient
- Use the rear camera (higher quality than front camera)
- Tap to focus on the child's face before shooting
- Use burst mode (hold shutter button)
Removing Adults from the Frame
For babies who can't sit independently, an adult must hold them — then the adult needs to be removed from the photo. Options:
- Lay flat — baby on white surface, adult holds them from below/behind, shoot from above
- White sheet wrap — drape a white sheet from behind, adult hides behind it, no body visible
- Digital removal — our tool can help clean up minor background intrusions, but full adult bodies cannot be removed digitally and will cause rejection
US-Specific: Child Passport Validity
Unlike adult passports (10 years), US passports issued to children under 16 are valid for only 5 years. This means more frequent renewals — and more frequent photo sessions.
Children under 16 cannot renew by mail (DS-82). Every child passport application must be made in person at an acceptance facility, with both parents or guardians present (or documentation of parental permission).
UK-Specific: Child Passport Photos
Same technical requirements as adults. Countersignatory requirements apply if the child has not had a UK passport before — a person of good standing must countersign the back of the photo confirming it is a true likeness.
Common Mistakes
- Visible adult hands holding the child — most common rejection reason
- Pacifier or dummy in mouth — not allowed
- Toy in hand or background — keep the background completely clear
- Shadow from adult standing behind — use lighting carefully
- Child looking sideways — get their attention on the camera lens specifically, not just in your direction