IDPhoto ProDocument Photo Guide
Use this page as the complete pre-submission checklist. It is intentionally different from the US passport photo size page: size answers the measurement question, while this guide helps you review the full set of visible photo rules before you take, edit, export, or submit a file.
Quick Answer
A US passport photo needs more than the correct 2 x 2 inch size. Before submitting, check that the image is recent, clear, front-facing, evenly lit, shown against a plain white or off-white background, and free of ordinary glasses or other face obstruction. The current U.S. Department of State instruction is the final source of truth.
IDPhoto Pro creates photo files only. It does not generate IDs, passports, visas, or official documents.
Scope and limits
This guide helps you prepare a photo file and identify risks that may need a retake or review. It does not replace the current receiving-authority rule or guarantee final acceptance.
Review official requirement sourceRequirements
How To
Why This Tool
IDPhoto Pro is designed for this workflow: choose a country or document preset, adjust the photo locally on iPhone, review checks like background and framing, then export a digital file or print-ready layout without using a cloud workflow.
Decision comparison
Choose the task you need to complete
Check the 2 x 2 inch format, crop, and digital-size detail.
Read this guideCheck plain white or off-white background and edge risks.
Read this guideUnderstand the ordinary-glasses rule and medical exception boundary.
Read this guideAssess your own image without treating a sample as approval.
Read this guideFAQ
No. Size is only one part of the requirement. Background, current appearance, pose, face visibility, glasses, lighting, and image quality also matter. Use the current official instruction for the full rule.
No. IDPhoto Pro can help prepare a photo file and identify visible issues, but it does not make the final acceptance decision. The receiving authority decides whether a submitted photo is accepted.
Use the current U.S. Department of State passport photo instruction linked on this page. Requirements and submission processes can change.
Photo preparation help
Start with the rejection notice and the receiving authority's current photo rules. Retake the image when you cannot clearly resolve framing, lighting, sharpness, background, or file-format issues. A photo app can help prepare the file, but it cannot determine final acceptance.
Read guideUse a recent, unfiltered, front-facing portrait with even light, enough distance from the wall to reduce cast shadows, and the correct document preset before exporting. Check the current rule for your exact country and application channel before submitting.
Read guideDo not assume that digital background replacement or other edits are accepted. Check the current rule for the exact receiving authority. When the original image has unsuitable lighting or background, retaking a clean photo is the most conservative option.
Read guideUse a photo app when you need privacy-conscious local preparation, multiple document sizes, a digital export, or a print layout from your own portrait. Use a photo shop when you need in-person help taking the portrait or the receiving workflow specifically requires a service provider. Neither option guarantees acceptance.
Read guideRelated guides
United States · DV Lottery · 2 x 2 in
Open guideUnited States · Green Card · 2 x 2 in
Open guideUnited States · US Visa Photo Recency · Taken within the last 6 months
Open guideUnited States · Passport · 2 x 2 in
Open guide