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Photography

Passport and ID Photo Background Guide

Most ID photo rules come down to a plain, evenly lit background. Here is how to produce one from a normal photo.

5 min read

Official photo requirements vary by country, so always check the issuing authority's current rules before submitting. What follows is general guidance, not legal advice.

Typical requirements

  • Plain light background, usually white or off-white
  • Even lighting with no shadows behind the head
  • Neutral expression, face fully visible
  • A specific pixel size or print size

Producing the background

Cut the subject out, then apply a plain light background. Because the fill is generated rather than photographed, it is perfectly even by definition.

Watch the edges

A halo around the hair is the most common rejection cause. Zoom in and clean it up with edge refinement before exporting.

Step-by-step instructions are in the background help article

Try it on your own photo

Free, no watermark, no sign-up. Your cutout is ready in seconds.

Remove a background

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