Taking photos digitally is a convenient and quicker alternative these days than film, though either one is acceptable. Along with the guidelines drawn up above, there are quite a few other tips and requirements for making sure your photos are in compliance with the Singapore government. The following rules are to be observed and remembered:
- All photos need to be done in color in order to reflect your true skin tone. Black and white or any type of filter is not permitted.
- An updated and recent photo within the last three months only. Any photo older than three months will be rejected.
- Glasses should be worn if you wear them on a daily basis. However, if glasses are thick-rimmed, create a glare, or have tinted lenses, they must be removed for the photo. The eyes need to be clearly visible for recognition purposes.
- Headwear such as hats or hairpieces is not allowed. The only exception is for individuals wearing a headpiece due to religious or medical reasons. Even so, your face needs to be completely visible.
- Hair can be down as long as it doesn’t block your face.
- Avoid wearing a white shirt as it will not contrast with the white background. Other than the color, no restrictions on attire.
- Be sure when printing the photos it doesn’t show any pixelation. It should be printed on good quality, semi-matte paper.
- Keep your face relaxed and maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed.
- Lighting is very important and is the most common cause of rejection. Be sure there are no shadows on the face, the photo is neither overexposed nor underexposed and a reflection from a flash isn’t present.
- Be sure there is no red-eye in your photo. If there is, a new picture must be taken as digital alterations are never permitted.
- Have the camera set up between .5 and 2 meters away from you.