U.S. Child and Baby Passport Photos in Guam
You need a correct passport photo for your child or baby's U.S. passport application from Guam. Follow these official rules to prepare a printed photo that meets every requirement[1].
Official Size and Head Dimensions
When you apply for a U.S. passport for a minor applicant, you must submit one printed color photo[1]. The official size of the photo is 51 by 51 mm, which is equal to 2.01 by 2.01 inches[1].
The head must measure 25 to 35 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. A photo with a head outside this range does not meet the stated size requirement.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The background behind your child must be a plain white or off-white background[1]. You must avoid any patterns, textures, or dark colors on the wall behind them.
Good lighting helps prevent shadows on the face or the background. You can face your child toward a bright window for natural, even light. Make sure there are no harsh shadows falling across their eyes or cheeks.
Special Rules for Babies and Infants
Photographing a newborn or infant has unique challenges, but the U.S. Department of State provides specific allowances for very young children. For babies, eyes may be partly or fully closed[1].
To get a proper background without shadows, you can use a plain white or off-white sheet beneath the baby or over a car seat[1]. Lay the baby flat on the sheet on the floor or prop the car seat up carefully so you can shoot from directly above.
Face Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
The photo should show a neutral expression, with the child facing the camera, eyes open and visible, and mouth closed[1]. The source does not give newborns a general exception to the expression rule; it says babies may have partly or fully closed eyes.
Glasses are not allowed in the photo[1]. If your child wears prescription glasses for daily use, you must take them off before you snap the picture. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1], and it must not hide any part of the face.
Taking the Photo at Home Step by Step
First, lay down your plain white or off-white sheet in a well-lit room near a window. Place your child safely on the sheet or sit them up if they are old enough to sit unsupported. Keep your camera or phone at the same level as your child's head, about one to one and a half meters away.
Take a photo that meets the passport requirements, then print the original, unedited image at the required size[1]. Do not crop or digitally change the photo[1].
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
The U.S. Department of State requires you to supply one printed color photo[1] for the application. Digital uploads are not used for standard minor passport book applications submitted by mail or in person.
Print the original, unedited photo on matte or glossy photo-quality paper at 51 by 51 mm[1]. Do not crop, rearrange, or digitally change the image[1].
Common Reasons Passport Photos Get Refused
Passport agencies reject many minor applications because of simple photo errors. Common mistakes include a head height that falls outside the 25 to 35 mm range[1] or a background that is off-color or shadowed.
The photo requirements include no glasses, a closed mouth, and one printed color photo[1]. The Department says unacceptable photos are a leading reason applications are put on hold[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size does a U.S. child passport photo need to be?
The official size is 51 by 51 mm, or 2.01 by 2.01 inches[1].
Can my baby have their eyes closed in the passport photo?
Yes. For babies, eyes may be partly or fully closed[1].
Are glasses allowed in a minor passport photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in the photo[1].
What kind of background do I need to use?
You must use a plain white or off-white background[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You must supply one printed color photo[1].