Create a 600x600 Photo (+Compliance Check by Human Expert)

More and more documents are allowing you to use digital photographs for online document applications.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about 600x600 images and learn how to take these pictures conveniently from home.

What documents use the 600x600 photo format?

The 600x600 digital photo is the digital equivalent of a 2x2-inch printed picture (51x51 mm). This picture size is required for identity documents, primarily in the US and India.

In the table below, you’ll find all the documents that require the submission of a 600x600 pixel image.

As you can see, apart from the traditional photographs needed for identity documents—that is, passport and visa photos—you can also use a 600x600 picture for your student ID card at most universities across the country.

Quality requirements for 600x600 photos

Note: When preparing your photo for online submission, you must also consider its file format and size. For 600x600-pixel images, ensure that:

• The picture is in JPG or JPEG format
• The file size is less than or equal to 240 KB

Apart from the technical aspects of 600 by 600 photos, remember these document photography rules:

1. Maintain a neutral facial expression. 
2. Keep both eyes open and look directly at the camera. 
3. Keep your mouth closed. 

Regarding the student ID photos, some of these requirements depend on the specific university. You might want to do a bit of research among your fellow students or visit your university’s website to see what kind of 600x600 pictures are acceptable. There’s a chance you can crack a smile for your student ID photo!

Where can I print 600x600 photos?

Since a 600x600-pixel image is digital by default, there’s no need to print it if you’re submitting a document application online.

However, for documents that require both printed and electronic copies of your biometric photographs (e.g., Green Card), there are several different options available.

You might want to visit your local photography studio, a pharmacy that offers photo-printing services, or simply search for “photo prints near me” in your preferred search engine.

How to take a 600x600 pixel photo at home

Since most brick-and-mortar locations offer only printed copies of your photographs, your home is actually the best place to get your 600x600-pixel image.

First, take the photo yourself—all you need is your smartphone and a couple of minutes of your time.

Once you have the photo, you can choose to either resize your picture using your smartphone or upload it to your computer.

Most software, like Photoshop, requires a certain amount of technical skills to use them. However, simpler apps may not offer automatic functions, so you’ll have to resize the photo and remove the background manually.

Another solution? Create your 600x600 image with a smartphone and a dedicated tool like Passport Photo Online.

See how easy it is!

Sources:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/digital-image-requirements.html