Holy See Press Accreditation Photo Requirements and Guide
Prepare your photo for a temporary press pass with the Ufficio Stampa della Santa Sede by following the official size and submission rules.
Official Size and Dimensions
For temporary press accreditation, the photo must be between 6 by 6 cm and 15 by 15 cm[1]. The 60 by 60 mm size is the smallest accepted size. The source does not give a head-height measurement[1].
The accepted image size ranges from 60 by 60 mm to 150 by 150 mm[1]. You can use the tool above to crop to 60 by 60 mm, the smallest accepted size. The application is submitted online[1].
Background and Lighting
Your photo needs a neutral and uniform background, and the authority does not specify a color[1]. Plain walls work very well for meeting this requirement without any distracting patterns or objects in the frame.
Try to stand a short distance away from the background wall to avoid casting dark shadows behind your head and shoulders. Good and even lighting helps make your facial features clear and prevents harsh glare on your skin. You can stand facing a bright window to get soft natural light across your face. Avoid using direct overhead lights that create deep shadows under your eyes and nose.
What the Photo Must Show
For temporary accreditation, upload a recent color photo taken no more than six months before your application. It must show your full face and neck from the front[1].
The source does not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1]. It does require the photo to show your full face and neck from the front[1].
Submission Method and File Details
You must submit your photo digitally because the application process for the press pass is entirely online[1]. The Ufficio Stampa della Santa Sede states no pixel or file-size limit for your upload[1].
The photo must be in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format[1].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can easily take your photo at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Ask a friend or a family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a self-portrait, because selfies often distort your natural facial proportions.
Keep the camera at your exact eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens. Stand up straight and relax your shoulders while looking straight ahead at the camera. Take several different shots under good lighting so you have multiple options to choose from when you are ready to edit your picture. Review your test photos on a larger screen to check for clarity and lighting issues before choosing the best one.
Preparing Your Digital File
Once you have selected your best photo, you need to prepare it for your digital application. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the required 60 by 60 millimeter size[1].
After cropping, check that the photo remains in an accepted size, shows your full face and neck from the front, and has a neutral, uniform background[1]. Save it as a JPEG, JPG, or PNG file[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for Holy See press accreditation?
The accepted photo size ranges from 60 by 60 mm to 150 by 150 mm[1].
What color should the background be?
The background must be neutral and uniform, and the authority does not specify a color[1].
Are there any file size limits for the digital upload?
The Ufficio Stampa della Santa Sede states no pixel or file-size limit for your upload[1].
Do I need to submit a printed photo or a digital file?
You must submit your photo digitally because the press accreditation application is online[1].