Having your picture taken is not a moment a lot of us look forward to. It can feel awkward and there is always the possibility of photos not turning out well. Many forms of ID are easy to hide away, but when it comes to an ID badge, companies often require it to be displayed for everyone to see. We’ve worked with thousands of customers and seen countless employees nervous about taking their ID badge photo. As a result, we decided to put together a few tips and tricks to get that effortless, good looking ID badge photo we all desire.
Tips for Looking Your Personal Best
1) Clothing
When it comes to your ID badge photo, the top half of your body is the only thing that will be seen, so be sure to wear a shirt that is flattering. It is best to avoid bright colors, neutrals, and distracting patterns that are likely to wash you out, especially in the fluorescent lighting of most offices. Darker shades of blue, green, gray, burgundy, or black, do well at highlighting your face and flatter most skin tones. Softer colors like lilac, soft blue, or yellow add brightness to your face and are attractive for a lot of darker skin tones.
2) Hair
Check to see that your hair is neatly styled and out of your face. Wear your hair in a style that is typical for you – not something special or unique just for that day. This is not the day to play around with a funky new hairstyle because trying something unnatural increases your chances of a hair disaster. This is a common mistake people forget about when having their picture taken. Stick to what you know works for you! If your hair is longer, be sure to place it evenly on both shoulders allowing it to frame your face.
3) Smile
Relax your face and smile slightly. Try to avoid forcing a smile and looking tense or smiling too little and looking unhappy. This picture may be around for a while and you want to look as friendly as possible. Practice in the mirror if you need to see what works for you! Relax: Most importantly, relax! If you are calm and prepared, you have already done most of the work. At the end of the day, it is only an ID badge photo and most people look better in person than in pictures anyways.
4) Relax
Most importantly, relax! If you are calm and prepared, you have already done most of the work. At the end of the day, it is only an ID badge photo and most people look better in person than in pictures anyways.
Tips for Great ID Badge Photo Capture
5) Background
You will want to find an area with enough space for a comfortable photo. The combination of a white background and fluorescent lighting is sure to wash out your complexion. A solid colored background, such as a neutral, blue, or green, is a good contrast for all skin tones. ISG dealers offer the perfect backdrops and stands to ensure all ID badges are good quality and consistent among employees.
6) Lighting
Good lighting is the key to a good photo. Find an area with good lighting or consider taking pictures near a window with natural lighting. Be sure the subject’s face can be seen clearly and there are not any harsh lights casting shadows. If no natural lighting is available, consider a camera with a flash. Our network of ISG dealers offer a variety of Photo ID cameras designed for a variety of lighting situations and we will be happy to help you find the camera that is best for your environment and your budget!
7) Angle
Be sure the subject is positioned so their head and shoulders are framed in the photo and they are looking straight at the camera. You may need to adjust the camera height as necessary with each person. An adjustable tripod can help ensure stability and a flattering angle when taking photos.
8) Review
Check to see if you are satisfied with your picture before it is printed. Sometimes it takes more than one shot to get the perfect picture, so don’t be afraid to take another and try again.
9) Sport It
If your institution requires employees or students to visibly display ID badges, we have a solution to help! ISG dealers supply accessories such as badge holders, custom lanyards, and badge reels that are useful for protecting, wearing, and displaying your ID badge. ID accessories can even be customized with your organization’s colors, logo and name for a more personalized and professional look.
Photo ID Badging Solutions from the ISG
Using these 9 tips will help you take better ID badge photos for your employees, students, visitors, patients and more. However, sometimes you just need better ID software or printers or cameras. Your local ISG dealer can help. We offer solutions for every aspect of ID badge issuance.
Talk with your local ISG expert to learn more, as well as how to integrate with video surveillance, visitor management, mobile credentials, and more.
