Baby Passport Photo Guide — Tips, Rules & Common Mistakes

Babies and infants need passport photos too — and the rules are slightly different. Here is how to get a compliant photo without the stress of a photo booth.

UK Baby Passport Photo Rules

Babies under 1 year old have relaxed requirements. The photo must still be 35 × 45 mm, but: eyes do not need to be fully open, facial expression can be neutral or relaxed, and the head size requirement is slightly flexible. Babies under 6 months do not need to have their eyes open at all.

How to Position Your Baby

Lay your baby on a plain white or light grey blanket on the floor. Stand directly above them with your phone or camera. Make sure the baby's head is centred in the frame. The background behind the baby's head must be plain and shadow-free.

Lighting for Baby Photos

Use soft, even lighting — natural daylight from a window works best. Avoid flash photography which can startle the baby and create harsh shadows. Make sure there are no shadows on the baby's face or the background.

Tips for Success

• Take the photo when your baby is calm and alert — after feeding is often the best time
• Take multiple shots — babies move, so having options increases your success rate
• Remove dummies, toys, and visible hands from the frame
• Do not hold the baby — hands or arms in the photo will cause rejection
• Make sure the baby's face is fully visible — no blankets or clothing covering the chin

Use Our AI Service

Upload your baby's photo to Harazan. Our AI automatically checks against baby-specific requirements (relaxed eye and expression rules). Our expert reviewers have specific experience with infant photos and will ensure your baby's photo passes first time.