Discussion: More Clarification on Photo Requirements for Best Results
Building on our previous discussions about photos, I wanted to address some of the more "specific" questions that members are asking. We know about lighting and backgrounds, but what about things like eyewear, hair, and clothing? These are the details that can sometimes cause a photo to be rejected by the vendor (or lead to a less-than-ideal final card).
First off, hair should be kept off your face. The vendor needs to be able to see your full face and hair line clearly for the best background removal. If your hair is covering your eyes or a large portion of your forehead, it can make the card look "off." It’s also a good idea to avoid wearing hats or headbands unless they are for religious reasons.
Advanced Photo Checklist
- Eyewear: Most jurisdictions now prefer photos without glasses. If you must wear them, make sure there is no glare on the lenses and your eyes are clearly visible.
- Clothing: Wear a solid-colored shirt that contrasts with your background. Avoid white shirts if you’re using a white background, as it makes the "shoulder removal" much harder.
- Jewelry: Keep it simple. Large or shiny jewelry can catch the light and create "hot spots" that are hard for the vendor to remove.
I always recommend taking multiple photos and sending the best one to the vendor. Some vendors even allow you to upload two or three and let their design team choose the best one for the card. What have your experiences been? Have you had a photo rejected lately? Let’s share our tips for getting that perfect shot on the first try.
