How to Take a Photo of an Identity Document

We all know taking photos can be difficult sometimes. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you to master the art of taking photos of your ID. 

So, check out our tips for taking images of an identity document:

Important data 

Please make sure that required information is visible and can be read easily — that includes your full name, date of birth, MRZ*, document number, and your photo.

• Clear the camera’s lens
• Focus the camera on the document
• Avoid taking the photo when glare is visible
• Make sure all four corners of the document are visible.

The MRZ is the Machine-Readable Zone, a codified element of all identity documents. It contains basic personal data and facilitates automated scanning. The MRZ looks like this:

Damage free and in color

Your document shouldn’t be scratched, stained or torn. Upload a color photo of a document that has not been damaged in any way.

• Pick undamaged documents for submission
• Upload only color photos

Natural beauty only 

Don’t edit the photo that you’re going to upload. You and your documents are beautiful just the way they are.

• Don’t apply any filters or effects to photos at all. This includes adjusting the contrast settings.
• Don’t hide sensitive data using editors; use physical objects if needed. 

Format

There are some formats that are suitable to be uploaded — for example, a photo or a PDF file with a color scan of a document. Screenshots and electronic documents are not acceptable.   

• Upload only the photos of an original document; photos of copies are not acceptable.