Passport Portrait Basics: Expression, Background and Face Position

A passport portrait is a documentation image, not a social profile portrait. The goal is a current, recognisable likeness with consistent geometry. A natural face is more useful than a dramatic pose or heavy retouching.

Expression

Many authorities ask for a plain or neutral expression with the mouth closed and eyes open. GOV.UK and Canada publish this as a core rule, while some child exceptions exist. Do not assume a friendly smile is harmless just because it looks good in a normal portrait.

Face position

Place the camera at eye level, keep the head upright and face the lens directly. Shoulders should be squared rather than angled. Leave enough space around the head for the required crop; do not cut off the chin or top of the hair unless the authority's guidance says otherwise.

Background and light

Use a plain light background with no pattern, furniture or visible object. Light the face evenly from the front or both sides. A shadow behind the head can make a technically correct passport portrait look unsuitable.

Portrait versus passport portrait

A portrait passport search often returns studio headshots, but passport standards are narrower. Avoid dramatic depth of field, coloured gels, filters, fashion poses and beauty edits. You want an honest record of your appearance.

Quick self-check

1. Can a reviewer see both eyes clearly?
2. Is the mouth in the expression required by the application?
3. Is the background plain and evenly lit?
4. Does the image show the same person without digital changes?

Use the background and lighting guide for more examples, then select the appropriate size in the browser tool.

Sources reviewed: GOV.UK, Canada.ca and U.S. Department of State. Review date: July 6, 2026.