Create a passport size photo sounds like something that requires fancy software or a trip to the studio, right? Not anymore. You can now whip one up on your own using tools you already know like Microsoft Word or Canva. For passport related document, school ID cards, resumes, visa documents, or job applications, we try to instruct that how to make professional looking passport photos right from your laptop or phone. Oh, and we’ll throw in a name tag too, just to give it that polished touch.
You don’t need fancy software or a DSLR to get started. All you need is:
- A decent mobile or webcam photo
- Microsoft Word or Canva account
- Access to a printer (optional)
- A calm background or a wall for taking the shot
Recommended Image Dimensions
The standard passport photo size is 2×2 inches or 51×51 mm, which roughly equals 600×600 pixels. Make sure your image resolution is 300 DPI for clean printing.
Passport Photo Background Rules
Most passport and ID photo guidelines demand:
- A plain white or off-white background
- No shadows on the face or behind it
- Neutral facial expression with eyes open
Make Passport Size Photo in Microsoft Word
Open a Blank Document: Start by opening Microsoft Word and creating a new blank page. Change the layout to ‘Portrait’ and set margins to narrow for better space usage.
Insert Your Photo
Click on Insert > Picture > This Device to upload your image. Pick the best lit photo with your full face and shoulders clearly visible.
Crop to Correct Size
Once the photo is in, click on the image, then Crop. You’ll want to resize the image manually.
Setting Width and Height in Inches
- Right click the photo
- Go to Size and Position
- Under size, set Height and Width to 2 inches each
Add White Background (Optional)
Use Shapes > Rectangle to draw a box behind your photo. Fill it with white and send it backward so the photo sits on top.
Insert a Name Tag Below
To add a name:
- Go to Insert > Text Box
- Write the name (e.g., Ahmed Khan – Class 10-B)
- Center it below the photo
Best Font and Size for Tags
Use Arial or Calibri in 12pt size. Avoid fancy fonts for official IDs.
Duplicate the Photo for Prints
Copy and paste your edited photo multiple times to fill the page. This is useful for printing 4–6 copies on one A4 sheet.
Editing or Creating a Passport Size Photo in Canva
“Start a Custom Size Design”
Head to canva.com, log in, and click Custom Size.
Set dimensions as 2×2 inches or 600×600 px. You can also go bigger (like A4) and duplicate smaller boxes inside it.
Upload and Insert Your Photo
Click Uploads, select your photo, and drag it to the canvas.
Crop and Align the Face
Use the crop tool to bring your face to the center, with your head taking up around 70–80% of the image height.
Adjust the Background
Click Edit Photo > Background Remover (Pro version feature). Or manually use a white rectangle behind your image.
Using Canva’s Background Remover
This tool removes your room or clutter instantly and leaves a clean studio-like white background.
Add a Name Tag with Text Tool
Select Text > Add a heading, write the name, and position it just below the image.
Tag Placement Tips
Keep your name tag centered and not too close to the photo edge. Use black or navy fonts for readability.
Export in Print Quality Format
Click Download > PDF Print or PNG (300 DPI). Avoid low resolution formats like JPG (unless optimized for web).
Size and Measurement Guide
Standard Passport Size Dimensions
| Measurement | Size |
| Inches | 2 x 2 |
| Millimeters | 51 x 51 |
| Pixels | 600 x 600 |
| DPI | 300 |
Pixel vs Inch vs CM Conversion Table
| Format | 2×2 in | 1.5×2 in | 35×45 mm |
| CM | 5.08×5.08 | 3.81×5.08 | 3.5×4.5 |
| Pixels | 600×600 | 450×600 | 413×531 |
Best Practices for Photo Composition
Head Position and Eye Level: Make sure your eyes are level with the camera. Don’t tilt your head or smile too wide; neutral works best.
Lighting Tips for Clean Photos
Use natural daylight or a ring light. Avoid overhead lights that cause shadows under the eyes or chin.
Clothing and Appearance Guidelines
Wear solid colors, preferably dark ones. Skip patterns, logos, or white clothing which may blend into the background.
Online vs DIY – What’s Better?
DIY saves you the trip and cost. Tools like Canva and Word offer great control, and you can update or redo your photo anytime.
When To Choose Professional Studios
Choose a professional setup for visas or embassy-related applications where biometric data is involved.
Printing for Your Final Photo
Recommended Paper Type: Use Glossy Photo Paper (A4). This gives a polished finish and resists smudging.
Best Print Settings in Word or Canva
Set print quality to High or Photo Quality, use Actual Size, and avoid “Fit to Page” to retain exact measurements.
Bonus: Add a Name Tag for School, ID, or Resume
Ideal Use Cases
- Student ID cards
- CV profile photos
- Company badges
- Class projects
Font Styles That Look Professional
- Arial
- Calibri
- Helvetica
- Use 12pt–14pt size for readability
After this, one thing is clear that creating a passport size photo with a name tag in Word or Canva is easy once you know the steps. It gives you full control over styling, sizing, and background; all from the comfort of your device. From school IDs to resumes and even official forms, this method helps save time and money while getting professional looking results.