Why Baby Passport Photos Can Be Challenging

The challenge is getting the child positioned correctly at the exact moment they are looking toward the camera. 

A baby may:

• Turn their head just as the photo is taken
• Close their eyes
• Move their hands into the frame
• Lean forward or sideways
• Become upset or start crying during the session 
• Look away from the camera
• Have a soother, toy or another object covering part of the face

Toddlers present a different challenge. They may understand simple instructions but become distracted quickly. Asking a two- or three-year-old to sit completely still can sometimes be harder than photographing a newborn.

Several attempts may be needed, particularly with babies and toddlers. The objective is not to capture a cute expression or a perfect smile. It is to obtain a clear, properly positioned image that follows the applicable passport specifications.

Canadian Passport Photo Requirements For Children

Canadian passport photos have specific requirements for size, positioning, lighting and image quality. For children, the same basic standards apply, with some allowances for newborns.

A Canadian passport photo must:

• Measure 50 mm wide by 70 mm high
• Show the face measuring between 31 mm and 36 mm from chin to crown
• Show the child's face and shoulders centred and squared to the camera
• Have a plain white or light-coloured background
• Show natural skin tone
• Be clear, sharp and properly exposed
• Have uniform lighting without distracting shadows
• Be professionally printed on high-quality photographic paper
• Be taken within six months of the passport application
• Be original and unaltered, without editing, filters or AI modifications 



Children should face the camera with their eyes open and clearly visible, with a neutral expression. Newborns have some flexibility because maintaining a neutral expression can be difficult at that age. Since passport requirements can change, parents should check the latest Government of Canada guidance before submitting an application. 

Tips For Getting A Good Baby Passport Photo

Time the appointment around your baby's routine. If your baby is usually more settled after a feed or nap, consider booking around that part of the day. 

• Bring a backup outfit.

Choose simple clothing that contrasts with the light background. Having a second outfit can help if the first one is white, heavily patterned or becomes messy before the session. 

• Keep comfort items nearby.

A soother, bottle, toy or favourite blanket can help settle a baby before the photo. These items simply need to stay out of the final image.

• Don't worry about making your baby smile.

Passport photos are not family portraits. A natural, appropriate expression is more important than getting a big grin.



• Give toddlers a simple explanation.

Telling a young child that they only need to look at the camera for “one quick picture” can be more effective than repeatedly asking them to sit still.

Most importantly, avoid turning the appointment into a struggle. A short break can sometimes work better than trying to capture the photo while a child is becoming increasingly upset.

Passport Photos For Newborns & Infants

Newborns require a different approach because they may not be able to sit independently or hold their head upright. 

Canadian passport guidance allows a newborn to be photographed while sitting in a car seat, with a white blanket placed over the seat behind the baby's head.

A baby may move, stretch, yawn or turn their head between attempts. Patience and careful positioning can make it easier to capture an appropriate image without trying to force the baby into an unnatural pose.

For parents arranging baby passport photos, choosing a photographer familiar with newborns and infants can make the session easier to manage. 

Passport Photos For Young Children

With young children, the goal is to keep the instructions simple and the time in front of the camera short. 

Before the appointment, parents can practise having their child sit or stand facing forward for a few seconds. You can also explain that there will be no need to smile, wave or say “cheese.”

During the session, short and clear instructions are usually easier for a young child to follow than a long explanation. If they become restless, taking a brief pause may help reset their attention.

Avoid coaching them to smile or pose. The aim is a straightforward passport photo, so keeping the interaction simple can make it easier to capture the required expression and positioning. 

Mobile Passport Photo Service For Children

For families with a newborn or several young children, travelling to a studio just for passport photos can add another task to an already busy day. A mobile passport photo service allows the session to take place at the family's location instead. 

This can be particularly practical for newborns, since parents can avoid packing a full set of baby supplies, managing travel and taking the baby out of their usual routine. 



Danielle Wu Photography offers passport photography options in Markham and Thornhill, including mobile service options for families who prefer an appointment at their location.

Book A Baby Or Child Passport Photo Appointment

A successful child passport photo starts with the right preparation. Knowing the requirements, bringing a few essentials and choosing a photographer who is comfortable working with young children can make the appointment much more straightforward.

Danielle Wu Photography provides professional passport photo services for babies and young children in Markham and Thornhill. Whether you need baby passport photos for a newborn or an updated photo for an older child, studio and mobile appointment options make it easier to choose what works best for your family.