👶 Infant Passport Photo Guide

US Passport Photo Size for Infants & Newborns 2025

Infants need the same 2×2 inch passport photo as adults. Here's exactly how to get it right — from size to background to positioning.

Create Your Infant's Passport Photo

Infant Passport Photo Requirements (US)

RequirementSpecification
Photo size2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Head size1 – 1⅜ inches from chin to crown (same as adults)
BackgroundWhite or off-white — no objects, hands, or car seats visible
EyesBoth eyes open (exceptions may be made for very young infants)
ExpressionNeutral — no smile required
Adult body partsNot permitted in photo

Get Baby's Passport Photo Ready in Minutes

Upload your best infant photo and PassportSnap handles the crop and background. No store trip needed.

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Best Techniques for Infant Passport Photos

1

White blanket on floor method

Lay a flat, wrinkle-free white blanket or sheet on the floor. Place infant face-up. Photograph from directly above with phone or camera.

2

Car seat + white drape method

Drape a white sheet completely over the car seat — no padding texture should be visible. Place infant in seat and photograph from the front.

3

Take 50+ photos

Infant eyes open unpredictably. Take many photos in burst mode and select the best.

4

Use natural window light

Soft window light from the front minimizes shadows. Avoid camera flash which can startle infants and cause red-eye.

5

Upload to PassportSnap

We crop to 2×2 inches, verify head sizing, and clean up any background imperfections.

Tips for Getting Eyes Open

💡 Right after feeding: Infants are most alert and calm immediately after a feeding. Schedule your photo session then.
💡 Noise cue: Gently shake keys or a rattle just out of frame — the sound often causes baby to open eyes wider.
💡 Wipe cheeks gently: A gentle touch on the cheek can stimulate babies to open their eyes momentarily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a newborn need a passport photo?
Yes. Every person traveling internationally — including newborns — needs their own passport with a current photo. The US State Department requires the same 2×2 inch photo for all ages.
What if my infant won't open their eyes for the photo?
Take many shots and choose the best. The State Department makes some exceptions for very young infants but eyes should be as open as possible. A well-timed photo after feeding usually works.
Can I hold my baby for the passport photo?
No body parts should be visible in the final photo. Use the white blanket floor method so no hands or arms appear in frame.