Official Newborn ID Photo Guide — Jaweed Studio

Please read these points before we begin. Our aim is to take a photo safely that meets the requirements of your local council’s ID issuing office.

The process and key points

• Your baby’s position: your baby lies on their back on a clean, light-coloured, plain background. For an accurate photo, their head and face are aligned to face the camera directly.

• Safe head support: to keep the face at the right angle and protect the neck, a parent or photographer places their palm under or beside your baby’s head to hold it steady.

• Clothing and appearance: please straighten your baby’s collar and clothing. Hats, headbands and distracting accessories are removed from the frame.

• Looking at the camera: we use a gentle voice or a small rattle to encourage your baby to look towards the lens.

Why place a hand under the head?

• Newborns have not yet developed strong neck muscles.

• This support helps keep the face directed towards the camera and reduces head tilt.

• It is used purely for safety and is standard practice in newborn photography. It also helps improve the quality of the final photo.

Important requirements for local council acceptance

• Your baby’s eyes must be open in the photo, so they need to be awake.

• If your baby is asleep, you can gently wake them without rushing. We understand this can take a little time, so there is no need to worry — we allow plenty of time.

• Both ears must be fully visible. Please make sure hands or clothing do not cover them.

• Your baby should face the camera directly, preferably with their mouth closed, against a light-coloured, plain background.

The supporting hand in the final photo

Some authorities, including local councils, do not accept photos with a hand visible behind the head. There is no need to worry: the hand is used only for your baby’s safety. During editing, we professionally remove it in Photoshop so the final photo meets the acceptance criteria.

Safety first

• Your baby’s safety is our absolute priority. We will pause the session whenever needed to let your baby settle.

• If your baby cries or becomes unsettled, please take time to soothe, feed, change or cuddle them. Once they are calm, we continue without rushing.

• At any sign of tiredness or discomfort, we make sure your baby is comfortable before resuming the session.