4 Steps for Taking Great ID Card Photos

Many people dread having their picture taken. We have all seen or had a hideous driver's licenses that gets tuck in the backs of our wallets. But for employee ID badges, student ID cards, and other photo IDs, most wear or display them prominently in clip-on holders, lanyards, or some other badge accessory. All of which means, you want to get great ID card photos to keep employees/students/guests happy and make it easy for security to recognize the cardholder.

Here are 4 steps to help you take great ID card photos:

1. Lighting and background are important

The right lighting and background are key elements to creating great ID card photos. Natural light is the best, so if you have a room with plenty of windows, set up your photo operation there. Overhead fluorescent lights will wash out faces, and you want to avoid strong direct lighting that casts shadows.

If you don't have natural light, invest in a lighting kit. Also consider investing in a background drop if you don't have a neutral colored wall against which to position people. You want something that's white or off-white or a light shade of blue or green. No jarring colors like lime green or fluorescent orange. One option is to buy a green screen as a backdrop so you can cut out the background completely.

2. Use an ID photo camera and software

Especially if you issue more than just a few ID cards a year, consider investing in an ID photo camera and software. These synchronize with each other to keep pictures right in the same file with your cardholders' information. You won't have to set up directories to keep thousands of photos and import those images into your software. An ID photo camera and software does it for you and will even crop the photo to fit your ID card design. The time and effort you'll save will more than make up for the cost.

If you use a regular digital camera, set up a tripod about 6 feet away from your subject. This will keep your photos uniform across all ID cards and badges.

3. Position your subjects

Think about how unattractive most drivers’ license pictures are. They look more like a mug shot than a picture. The way you position your subjects can make all the difference.

Shoot your subject at an angle. For instance, rather than facing them head on, turn your subject a quarter turn to the right or left and have them turn their head to the camera.

Another great angle is to shoot from a bit higher than your subject. This is important for those who wear glasses to eliminate glare. For example, have your subjects sit on a chair in front of a neutral backdrop with natural lighting. Then position your camera a few inches higher than your subject. A slight downward angle makes subjects look more natural and avoids the unattractive under-the-chin shot.

4. Have your subjects smile

You don't want your employee or student ID photos all serious; it will make others wonder why they're so grumpy. Have employees or students show how delighted they are to be there with a big smile. It's up to you to put them at ease and capture the most natural pose and smile possible.

Many people are uncomfortable getting their picture taken. One way to help put them at ease is to forewarn them about taking their photograph. Offer them some suggestions on the best clothing to wear in photos and offer to take several photos so they can pick the one they like best. If you have too many IDs to process, however, this won't be possible. In this case, at least review each photo taken. Odds are if you don't like it, neither will the subject, so take another one.

Final thoughts

Consider putting together a handout or email your subjects before their photo session. Let them know the color backdrop you're using and offer tips on what colors/outfits look best. You could also offer suggestions on arranging hair away from their faces and to practice their smile in the mirror beforehand.

The real key to taking great ID card photos is for everyone to relax and have fun. If the first picture doesn't work, you can always take another.