ID Picture Tips

Tips for a Successful ID Photo

  1. To achieve a neutral colored, smooth background, you can use:
    • Poster board
    • Blank Wall
  2. To achieve clear image quality, avoid images that are:
    • Dark or shadowed
    • Distorted or blurry
    • Too small (less than 260x300 pixels)
      • Generally, you can right-click a photo and view the size under the Properties, or you can use a photo-editing program to view the file size.
  3. Avoid photos with other visible people or objects.
  4. If you plan to use this picture for your Student Nursing or Teaching badge, take it while wearing your scrubs or a professional top.

DO!

  • Align your face & shoulders squarely with the camera
  • Use a light background

Portrait of young woman smiling and looking directly at the camera. Face and shoulders are framed squarely. Background is light and solid color. Hair is worn down but styled neatly.
 
  • Leave space around and above your head
  • Smile or maintain a neutral expression

Portrait of young woman smiling and looking directly at the camera. Face and shoulders are framed squarely. Background is light and solid color. Hair is worn half up, styled neatly. There is space around her head.
 

Don't!

  • Touch your face
  • Use a busy background with objects visible
  • Wear a hat or sunglasses
Portrait of young woman smiling outside wearing sunglasses and touching her face. Face and shoulders are off-center of frame. Background shows part of a building, the sky and a yard. Hair is worn down and a bit wind-blown / messy. Looks like a typical selfie photo.
 
  • Use a picture with another person or your pets
  • Submit a selfie
  • Use a picture that’s off-centered
Portrait of young woman smiling while wearing a baseball cap. Face and shoulders are off-center of frame. Background appears to be a wooden door with wood grain evident.
 
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