Composition Checklist


7 Steps to Successful Photo

Frame subject with full face, front view, eyes open
Make sure photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin; height of head should measure 1 inch to 1-3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm)
Center head within frame (see Figure 2 below)
  Make sure eye height is between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) from bottom of photo
  Photograph subject against a plain white or off-white background
  Position subject and lighting so that there are no distracting shadows on the face or background
  Encourage subject to have a natural expression

Figure 2. Head Position & Placement

Figure 2. Head Position & Placement


Digital Image
Head Diagram

Head Size

The head height or facial region size (measured from the top of the head, including the hair, to the bottom of the chin) must be between 50% and 69% of the image's total height. The eye height (measured from the bottom of the image to the level of the eyes) should be between 56% and 69% of the image's height.

Image pixel dimensions must be in a square aspect ratio (meaning the height must be equal to the width). Minimum acceptable dimensions are 600 pixels (width) x 600 pixels (height). Maximum acceptable dimensions are 1200 pixels (width) x 1200 pixels (height).

 

Well-Composed Photos

Well-Composed Photos