DFA Passport Experience : on photo capturing

Bonjour. Mabuhay.

Finished passport application. Whew. Was a blast. Something I learned when they start getting your photo for the passport.

While inside the Passport Enrollment Section.

Here are some Guidelines to be followed:


YOUR POSE
Your frontal pose looking directly at the camera lens and showing your full face must be used. Rotation or tilting of the head either in an up/down or left/right direction must be avoided. The mid points of the mouth and the bridge of the nose should lie on an imaginary vertical line in the center of the image.

EXPRESSION
Your expression should be neutral with both eyes open and mouth closed. There should be no hair covering the eyes. Contrived expressions such as raised eyebrows, squirting or frowning are not acceptable.

SMILING
When having their photos captured, applicant may smile, but without showing their teeth and gums. The ‘Mona Lisa’ smile is recommended.

EYEGLASSES/CONTACT LENSES
Eyeglasses should always be removed before capturing the applicant’s photo.
The use of contact lenses for medical reasons is accepted, provided that the contact lenses do not change the applicant’s true eye color. Therefore, applicants are advised to take off their contact lenses before having their photos captured.

EARS SHOULD BE VISIBLE
As much as possible, both ears of the applicant should be visible.

EARRINGS/HAIR ACCESSORIES
These accessories should be removed prior to photo capturing. Frizzy/afro hairstyles should be neatly arranged showing full frontal facial image.
For men, wearing earrings is not allowed.

INFANTS
Infants or very small children who are unable to support themselves should be assisted by either parent or their guardians. Hands, arms, etc., used to support the child should not be visible. High-chair for minor applicants may be used, if needed.

Keep these in mind when you get to the DFA. You do not need to bring any photos, your photo and biometrics will be taken onsite. Bring your printed application form with the barcode printed on top. This is acquired when you get your passport appointment. :)