Taking a photo for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery can be a daunting task, especially if you don't have access to a professional photographer. However, with a few simple steps, you can take the perfect photo for your DV Lottery application from the comfort of your own home.

Firstly, make sure you have the right equipment. You will need a digital camera or smartphone with a high-resolution camera, a tripod or something to hold your camera steady, a plain white or off-white background, and good lighting.

Next, set up your equipment in a well-lit area background behind you. Make sure there are no shadows or reflections on the background. Stand in front of the background with your shoulders and head straight, facing the camera.

When taking the photo, make sure you follow these guidelines:

- Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open.

- The photo should be taken from the shoulders up with the top of your head and hair visible.

- The photo should be in color and in focus.

- The photo should be taken within the last six months.

Once you have taken the photo, review it to ensure it meets the requirements. If it doesn't, retake the photo until you get the perfect shot. After that, use the passport photo editor to help you to generate the photo that meets size requirements.

In summary, taking a DV Lottery photo at home is easy and straightforward with the right equipment and following the guidelines. By taking the time to get a good photo, you increase your chances of being selected for the DV Lottery.

Click here to make passport / visa photos

Other passport pictures guides

How to take passport photo in 5 steps?

Step 1: Use a digital camera or a smartphone to take a photo

Find someone to take the photo for you and selfie photo is not acceptable for passport photo application. If you have a tripod, use it. A tripod will make it easier to keep the camera steady and level. The distance of the person to the camera should be around 1 meter.

Step 2: Find a venue with good lighting

When taking photo, you should face the light, such as a nice bright window or the door. This can provide even lighting to avoid shadows on the face and background. The face must be evenly lit. There should be no shadows and glares on the face.

Note: No need to worry about the background as our online passport photo generator will automatically remove or change the background for you.

unacceptable passport photo

Step 3: Wear properly for your passport photo

Do not wear uniforms. Wear regular street clothes in your photo.

Do not wear eyeglasses. If you wear glasses, sunglasses, or tinted glasses, take them off for your passport photo.

Your face must still be fully visible. Don’t let your hair drape over your face and obscure your eyes. If you have very long bangs that cover your eyebrows, you should pin them back with bobby pins. It’s best if your ears show, as well, but that won’t cause your photo to be rejected.

No hats are allowed in passport photos unless it is religious headgear such as a headscarf or yarmulke that you wear every day.

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