Capturing Your Essence: ID Photos and Portraits at Jaweed Studio, Ghent, Belgium

Jaweed Studio · Photography Blog

An official ID photo must provide an accurate, recognisable record of your appearance. A portrait, on the other hand, can show who you are. Here’s why that distinction matters — and which type of photo you need when.

The words ‘ID card photo’ usually bring a simple image to mind: a neutral expression, a light background and a photograph that follows strict rules. Yet we also use photographs to convey personality, expertise and character. This is why official ID photos and professional portraits are sometimes mistakenly treated as the same thing.

Both photographs show the same face, but their purpose is fundamentally different. One is designed for reliable identification; the other for communication and expression. In this article, we explain what each image needs to achieve, why a creative approach is not suitable for an ID card and when a professional portrait is the better choice.

What is an ID card photo?

A photograph for a Belgian ID card, passport or residence document is, first and foremost, a biometric passport photo. It is not intended to capture your most flattering pose, favourite style or personality. Its purpose is to allow official authorities and facial recognition systems to identify you quickly and reliably.

That is why strict requirements apply to elements such as head position, facial expression, lighting, contrast and background. You look straight into the camera, keep your mouth closed and ensure that key facial features remain clearly visible. Creative shadows, striking poses and heavy retouching have no place in this type of photograph.

Need an official photo? See our practical information on biometric passport photos and ID document photos in Ghent.

What makes a portrait different?

Being recognisable still matters in portrait photography, but there is another layer to consider: how do you want to be seen? A portrait can convey calm, confidence, creativity, warmth or professionalism. Lighting, posture, clothing, background and framing are chosen deliberately to support that story.

A portrait therefore does not need to be as neutral as an ID card photo. You can move, smile, look away or make strong eye contact with the camera. The photographer guides you through small adjustments that feel natural yet make a clear difference to the final image.

Examples of portrait photography by Jaweed Studio. In a portrait, lighting, posture and atmosphere work together to tell the photograph’s story.

ID photos and portraits side by side

What does a photograph really say about you?

An ID photo primarily confirms: this is me. A portrait can also communicate: this is how I want to present myself. That distinction may seem small, but it has a significant influence on how an image is created and viewed.

For official documents, consistency matters more than originality. For a professional profile, personal website or lasting keepsake, there needs to be room for nuance. A calm expression can convey reliability, a relaxed posture can suggest approachability, and a carefully chosen setting can say something about your work or stage of life.

A successful portrait is therefore more than just a flattering photograph. It suits the person, its purpose and the place where it will be used.

Which photo do you need?

Biometric ID photo

Choose this option for an ID card, passport, residence document or other official application.

Professional portrait

Choose a portrait session when the impression you make, your personality and the intended use of the photograph are the main priorities.

How to prepare for both types of photograph

For an official ID photo

• Ideally, wear clothing that contrasts sufficiently with a light background.

• Keep your hair and accessories positioned so that your face remains clearly visible.

• Avoid shiny make-up and statement accessories that could reflect light.

• During the shoot, follow the guidance on posture and maintaining a neutral expression.

For a portrait

• Decide beforehand how you want to use the images and what impression you want to make.

• Choose clothing that feels like you and suits the purpose of the photo session.

• Consider bringing a second outfit for more variety.

• Try not to hold a fixed pose on your own; good guidance produces a more natural result.

Do you find posing awkward? Read our tips on looking natural in studio portraits.

Want to read more? Browse all Jaweed Studio articles.

You may also be interested in

The right image for the right purpose

An ID photo does not need to become a portrait, and a portrait does not need to feel like a passport photo. Once the purpose is clear, each image can do exactly what it is intended to do.

Need a photo for an official document? Start by checking the requirements and options for a biometric photo.