The right camera settings make the difference between a compliant photo and a rejected one. Here's the complete technical guide.
Process Your Photo Now| Setting | Recommended | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Camera mode | Standard Photo | No background blur or AI processing |
| Portrait/Bokeh mode | ❌ OFF | Background blur fails passport requirements |
| HDR | ❌ OFF or Auto | Can alter background tone unpredictably |
| AI scene enhancement | ❌ OFF | Can alter skin tones and background |
| Beauty/skin smooth mode | ❌ OFF | Alters facial features — not acceptable |
| Flash | ❌ OFF | Creates harsh shadows and glare |
| Timer | ✅ 3 seconds | Eliminates camera shake |
| Camera angle | Eye level | Prevents facial distortion |
| Distance from subject | 3–4 feet | Natural proportions, avoids wide-angle distortion |
Face a window with natural daylight. Soft, even, shadow-free. Best option.
One lamp each side of face, at eye level. Mimics studio lighting.
Ceiling lights alone create eye socket and chin shadows — leading rejection cause.
Creates harsh shadows and hot spots. Use ambient light only.
Once you have a well-lit, front-facing photo, PassportSnap handles all the technical compliance automatically.
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