1. The 'White Crib Sheet' Overhead Technique (Best for 0–9 Months)
Trying to hold a newborn upright in front of a wall almost always fails because an adult's hands or shoulder end up in the frame—an automatic rejection at passport agencies. Instead, lay your baby flat on their back on a crib mattress or floor mat near a bright window.
- Stand directly above your baby looking straight down (90° bird's-eye angle) so the camera lens is parallel to their face.
- Make sure daytime window light illuminates both cheeks evenly without harsh shadows.
- Don't worry if the sheet has creases or a slight tint—PassPhotoKit's AI segments your baby and replaces the background with pure #FFFFFF white.
2. Official Infant Biometric Rules (U.S., UK, Canada & Schengen)
Government passport examiners apply special exemptions for newborns and young children because infants cannot follow pose instructions:
- United States (Form DS-11): Infants under 1 year do not need to have their eyes open, though open eyes are preferred. Head height must still be 1" to 1-3/8" (50%–69%).
- United Kingdom (HMPO): Children under 6 do not need a neutral expression or to look directly at the camera. Babies under 1 do not need open eyes.
- Canada (IRCC 50×70mm): Newborns may be photographed in a car seat only if a white blanket completely covers the seat behind the head and no hands are visible.
3. Dress Code & Hair Accessories for Babies
Dress your baby in a plain, darker-colored onesie or shirt so their shoulders contrast clearly against the white background. Remove all bibs, pacifiers, large bows, and hats before snapping the photo.