Face expression for ID, DL or passport photo?

[j35]

This might be funny to some, but I'm really curious about it. Are there legal restrictions on face expression for ID, DL or passport photo? Is it legal to smile on photo? I think I was told to not smile while taking photo for DL.

The reason I’m asking this – in country from where I’m coming from - one would need to maintain very cold face expression – and here I see happy smiling faces on ID cards. Is it only for advertisement purposes or in real life too?

 

[Celtic1888]

I just got my Id last week & I smiled in my photo, when I asked the lady who was taking the photo she just shrugged, like whatever!

Hope this helps!

 

[ravi1985]

I smiled with I read this post!! I will surely smile next time I take a passport/id photo!!

 

[Bobsmyth]

Although not an absolute requirement , neutral facial expression of the subject should be encourage by the photographer.

http://travel.state.gov/passport/guide/composition/composition_874.html

 

[Feliz-LA]

if you hesitate to smile wide for ID photo, then IMHO a little smile (lift lip angles just a bit) is MUCH better then totally "cold" expression

it still looks serious and official, but impression is much more natural and warmer

try it with a camera at home and find the one you like ))

i like portrait photography myself and always paid big attention to ID photos even at DMV, now everybody is asking "did you hire your own photographer?" ))

 

[cr.marsh]

passport photo expressions ENJOY!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8PBF5h-9Qg

 

[Triple Citizen]

The Canadian passport office demands a neutral expression. You cannot be smiling. Period.

 

[USER2345]

I'll look surprised in my picture if I get a passport. Like REALLY surprised.!!!