How to take a form photo with your phone
Simple steps for a clear, well-lit photo for an online application, without a studio: light, background, framing and what to avoid.
Light
Face a window in daylight. Avoid a ceiling light directly above you, which puts shadows under the eyes.
Background
Stand half a metre in front of a plain white or light wall so there is no shadow behind you.
Framing
Ask someone to take the photo from about 1 metre at eye level. Leave space around your head; you crop it here afterwards.
Expression
Look straight at the camera with a neutral face, unless your form says otherwise. Remove sunglasses and caps.
Format
On iPhone, set Settings → Camera → Formats → Most Compatible so photos save as JPG.
Questions
Can I take a passport-style photo at home with a phone?
Yes, for most online forms a phone photo works if the light is even and the wall behind you is plain. Check your form’s own rules, since some ask for a studio photo or a recent print.
Should I use the front or back camera?
The back camera is usually sharper, so ask someone else to take the photo. If you take it yourself, hold the phone at eye level and at arm’s length to avoid a distorted face.
Can PhotoSize make my background white?
No, it does not remove the background you were photographed against. It only fills empty edges with white, light blue or light grey when you zoom out or rotate, so stand in front of a plain light wall.
Updated 2026-11-06