The person taking the photo should stand 50cm from the person having the photograph taken as to ensure that the head and upper body are showing and are in the centre of the photograph.

The background must be a plain light colour such as cream, light grey or white.

Hair must not cover the eyes and the face & eyes must be fully visible.

You must be facing forwards and look straight into the camera with a closed mouth. Don't smile.

The face should be evenly lit and importantly no shadows should be visible on the face.

The head must not be tilted but facing forward with straight shoulders. Look directly at the camera.

Do not wear glasses in your photo unless you have to do so. Glare & reflections on the lenses is the most common reason for a failed photo.
If you do wear glasses they cannot be sunglasses or tinted glasses and you must make sure your eyes are not covered by the frames.

Hats and head & hair accessories cannot not be worn.

If a person’s religion or beliefs does not allow them to have their head uncovered then they may cover their head. The face and eyes must be fully visible & the head covering must be plain, in one colour only and must contrast with the background.

If the infant needs to be supported this must not be visible on the photo. The supporting hand can be hidden under the infant’s clothing.

Babies should lie on a plain light-coloured sheet with the photo taken from above. They must not be holding toys or using dummies.

Children must be on their own in the picture, they must not be holding toys.
Children under 6 do not have to be looking directly at the camera or have a plain expression.