U.S. and International Children’s Passport Photo Specialist

Hey, you know what’s funny? Watching a drug store employee attempt to photograph a six-week-old

infant for a passport. Most drug stores will turn you away, simply saying they don’t photograph children

for passport photos at all. Hard to blame them, they’re not experienced – they’re not professional –

they’re NOT PHOTOGRAPHERS!

So where does that leave you if you have a six-week-old infant and need a passport photo? It leads you

to Thomas Bruce Studio of Photography, that’s where!

Thomas Bruce Studio has been in the photography business for 50 years. We’ve photographed more

children than drug stores have sold hair spray! As the Tampa Bay area’s resident expert in passport

photography (both foreign and domestic), we know EXACTLY what to do and how to do it when it comes

to photographing your child to satisfy the government bureaucracy on a passport photo.

Located at 2227 49th St. N., St Petersburg, you will be in and out in just minutes with your precious

child’s photo in hand.

All photography is by appointment, please call 727-577-5626 to schedule yours today!

How to Photograph Children for Passport Photos – Tips for a Stress-Free Experience

Taking passport photos of children—especially babies and toddlers—can be a challenge. They wiggle, blink, and sometimes just don’t want to sit still! But don’t worry—at Thomas Bruce Studio of Photography, we’ve mastered the art of capturing perfect passport photos for kids. Whether you’re preparing for an international trip or updating your child’s US ID, these expert tips will ensure a smooth and successful photo session.

and the Passport Photo Requirements

Every country has strict guidelines for passport photos, and children’s requirements are just as specific as adults’. Some common rules include:
✅ Neutral expression (no big smiles or frowns)
✅ Both eyes open and looking at the camera
✅ No shadows, toys, or pacifiers
✅ White or light-colored background

Infants may have slight exceptions, but in general, sticking to the rules from the start helps avoid rejected applications.

2. Timig is Everything

A well-rested and fed child is far more cooperative. Schedule the photo session when your child is most content, whether that’s after a nap or a snack. Avoid times when they are likely to be cranky.

3. Dress for Success

While passport photos have a white or light-colored background, avoid dressing your child in white so they don’t blend in. Choose a solid-colored outfit with contrast for a crisp, professional look. Keep accessories minimal—no hats, bows, or headbands are allowed.

4. Keep Them Comfortable

For babies, placing them in a car seat with a white blanket as a background can help keep them still while following photo guidelines. For toddlers, sitting on a parent’s lap can provide comfort—but remember, parents must stay out of the frame!

5. Capture the Moment Quickly

Children’s attention spans are short, so getting the shot quickly and efficiently is key. We use professional lighting and fast shutter speeds to capture the perfect image in seconds. If your child blinks, moves, or makes a funny face, we simply try again until we get the right shot.

6. Keep It Fun and Relaxed

Children pick up on stress! Staying calm and patient helps them feel at ease.

7. Trust a Professional Photographer

DIY passport photos can be frustrating, and many are rejected due to improper sizing, lighting, or angles. At Thomas Bruce Studio, we specialize in passport photos for all ages, ensuring they meet specific country requirements. We make the process fast, easy, and stress-free for both parents and children!

Need a Passport or ID Photo for Your Child?

Located in St. Petersburg at 2227 49th St. N., Thomas Bruce Studio is the go-to place for passport photos in Tampa Bay. We guarantee compliance with all official guidelines, so you can travel with peace of mind.

Book your appointment today and let us handle the hard part!

Things to remember:

Below is a quick guide for accepting and executing passport applications for minors (individuals under 16 years of age).
It is not inclusive. Please refer to the Passport Agents’ Reference Guide (PARG) for details and additional information.
Basic information:
 Minors under age 16 must apply in person.
 All minors regardless of age, including newborns and infants, must have their own passport when traveling
internationally by air.
What is needed to accept an application for a minor?

1. A completed form DS-11 “Application for a U.S. Passport”
2. Child’s evidence of citizenship (see page 107109 of the PARG):
    Previously issued, undamaged, full validity (5 year) U.S. Passport
    A certified birth certificate issued by the U.S. city, county, or state — parents’ names should be listed.
    Consular Report of Birth or Consular Certification of Birth
    Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship
3. Evidence of Relationship between Child and Parent(s)/Guardian(s) (see page 109 of the PARG)
    The minor’s certified U.S. or Foreign birth certificate with both parents’ names
    The minor’s Report of Birth Abroad with both parents’ names
    Adoption Decree with adopting parents’ names
    Certified Court Order establishing custody
    Certified Court Order establishing guardianship
4. Identification of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) (see page 110 of the PARG)
    Parent(s)’/ Guardian(s)’ undamaged U.S. passport (issued within last 10 years)
    Parent(s)’/ Guardian(s)’ Naturalization Certificate (issued within last 10 years)
    Parent(s)’ / Guardian(s)’ valid drivers’ license
    Parent(s)’ / Guardian(s)’ valid government employee or military ID
5. A copy of identification (front and back) from each parent/guardian (see page 110 of PARG)
6. Parental Consent (see page 111 of the PARG)
    Both Parents: must appear in person with the minor and sign the DS-11 as part of the application
   execution
    One Parent: must appear in person with the minor and sign the DS-11 as part of the application
   executions. A Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) from the second parent should be submitted
    One Parent (with sole legal custody): must appear in person with the minor and sign the DS-11as part of the
   application executions. Evidence of sole authority to apply for the minor should be submitted:
    Minor’s certified U.S. birth certificate, certified foreign birth certificate, or Consular Report of Birth
   Abroad (DS-1350) listing only the applying parent; or
    Court order granting sole custody to the applying parent; or
    Adoption decree (if applying parent is sole adopting parent); or
    Court Order or power of attorney permitting applying parent or guardian to apply for the child’s
   passport; or
    Judicial declaration of incompetence of non-applying parent; or
    Death certificate of non-applying parent
    A Third Party (in loco parentis applying on behalf of a minor under the age of 16):
    A notarized written statement or affidavit from both parents or guardians authorizing a third party to
   apply for a passport. When the statement/affidavit is from only one parent/guardian, the third party
   applying on behalf of the child must present evidence of sole custody for the authorizing parent/
   guardian. Guide provided by: **https://ch.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/131/2016/09/photo-requirements-Kids-Brochure-Version-8.pdf