Capturing a Clear Photo of Your Passport

Audience: Everyone

To successfully verify your identity using a passport, you must capture high-quality images of both the photo page and the signature page. Because passports often have reflective surfaces, proper lighting and positioning are essential for a successful "live capture." 

Capturing a Clear Photo of Your Passport

Three Steps to Get Your Passport Photos Accepted

1. Identify the Correct Pages +

Depending on your country of issue, your portrait and signature may be on the same page or opposite pages.

  • If they are on the same page: Capture the photo/signature page when prompted for the "Portrait Page," and capture the page directly opposite it when prompted for the "Signature Page."
  • If they are on separate pages: Capture the photo page first, then capture the signature page when prompted.
  • Note: Ensure the Machine Readable Zone (the two lines of text at the very bottom of the photo page) is fully visible and not cut off.
Portrait page example

Use the page with the photo as the Portrait page.

Signature page example

Use the page with your signature as the Signature page.

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Pro tip: The Machine Readable Zone is the two rows of text at the very bottom of your passport photo page. Make sure it's fully in frame — if it's cut off, the system will reject your ID.
2. Eliminate Glare and Shadows +

Passport pages are typically laminated or glossy, which can create a "white-out" effect when using a camera flash or sitting directly under a bright light.

  • Avoid Flash: Turn off your camera flash and use natural, indirect light if possible.
  • Check the Angle: If you see a bright spot on the screen, slightly tilt the passport or move your camera to shift the reflection away from important text or your portrait.
3. Review Before Confirming +

Once you take the photo, the app will show you a preview. Ask yourself:

  • Can I read every word? If the text is blurry, the automated security system will reject it.
  • Is the whole page visible? Do not crop the photo; the notary needs to see all four corners of the passport page.
  • Is it a live capture? Remember, you cannot upload a pre-saved file or a photo of a photocopy. It must be the physical book.

Summary Checklist

  • Confirm you have the physical passport book (no photocopies).
  • Verify that the Machine Readable Zone (bottom text) is clear.
  • Ensure you are in a well-lit area to avoid glares during the photo capture.
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Still unsure? If you are uncertain whether your passport photos are being captured correctly, please contact Proof Support for assistance before joining your meeting. Please note that notaries have the final discretion to decline an ID if it does not meet security or legal requirements.

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