Hidden Secrets to Always Taking Great ID Badge Photos
Many people dread having ID badge photos taken. You may be overly self-conscious about your appearance, that the image will not look good, or that the experience might be awkward. Many IDs are easy to tuck away out of sight. However, regarding ID badges, many businesses require a higher level of visibility. We reveal the hidden secrets to taking the perfect ID photo.
At abc identity SOLUTIONS, we have heard countless comments from our customers about how nervous their employees are when their picture has to be taken. Therefore, we have compiled several tips to ensure your employees always present themselves at their best
Why Taking Perfect ID Badge Photos Matters: What You May Not Know
Having a high-quality, clear, and professional ID badge photo is crucial for security purposes. It enables the accurate and quick identification of your authorized personnel. It prevents fraud and ensures a safe workplace. Poor-quality pictures hinder facial recognition and can compromise the integrity of the ID badge.
Furthermore, it fosters an air of professionalism and a sense of belonging. Good photos will make your employees feel respected. To customers, it demonstrates that you are a well-organized company with attention to detail in your badge design.
During this brief time, customers formulate comprehensive impressions based on intent and character. When looking at you, they are judging your company based on:
- Competence: If you possess the knowledge and skills to perform the task successfully.
- Trust: Can they rely on you?
- Likability: Do they feel a positive connection?
- Comfort Level: How comfortable and safe do they feel with you around them?
Lighting and Background Hidden Secrets
1. The Perfect Background
The ideal background is one with enough space to take a comfortable photo. Avoid using fluorescent lighting and white backgrounds, as they will wash out a person’s complexion. Using solid-coloured backgrounds (blue, neutral, green) will provide excellent contrast for all skin tones.
2. Good Lighting is Essential for Good ID Badge Photos
Find areas with ample lighting. Natural lighting is preferable as it creates a less harsh image. You can position employees close to a window or in the shade outdoors. Ensure that you have abundant natural lighting without direct light on your face. Direct lighting on the face can create a shiny appearance for some people or introduce glare.
Ensure the person’s face is clearly visible and that harsh lighting is not casting shadows. However, if this is not an option, find a well-lit location for a clear and concise picture. In this case, consider using a camera containing a flash.
3. Consider the Angle
The person’s head should be positioned so that the shoulders and head are framed in ID badge photos. They should also be looking directly into the camera. The camera height may need to be adjusted as necessary for each individual to achieve the best photo.
Adjustable tripods can ensure you always get a flattering camera angle and stability while taking photos. Keeping your camera at eye level avoids unfavourable angles. The head can be slightly angled towards the camera for natural ID badge photos.
4. Review Before Submitting Them
Once all pictures are taken, review each one to ensure you are delighted with the results before submitting them to us for your ID badge. Expect that the perfect shot may not occur in a single picture, so don’t be afraid to try again.
5. Rock the New Design
If you require students/employees to display their badges visibly, we can help make your ID badges even more stylish. We offer accessories such as custom lanyards, badge holders, and clip pins, providing a personalized, polished, and professional look.
Apperance
1. Hair
Ensure your hair is out of your face and neatly styled. Choose to wear it in a style that you frequently wear – not something unique or special just for that day. Experimenting with a new hairstyle that is not part of your usual routine can increase the chances of a hair disaster, which is a standard error people make when having their picture taken.
Stick with a hairstyle that suits you. For longer hair, ensure it is evenly placed on both your shoulders. It will allow you to frame your face.
2. Clothes
When taking an ID badge, the only part of your body that is seen is the top half of your body. Ensure you wear a flattering, but not too revealing, shirt. Avoid neutrals, bright colours, and busy patterns that can wash you out. This is especially true if you are using fluorescent lighting, which is commonly found in most offices.
Darker blue hues, gray, green, black, or burgundy are wonderful at highlighting the face and will flatter a broader range of skin tones. Soft colours like pastel blue, lilac, or yellow can add brightness to the face and be attractive to darker skin tones.
If you are wearing a uniform, ensure it is properly ironed and free from stains. Ensure you look presentable and professional.
3. Smile and Positioning
Have your employees smile lightly while relaxing their faces. Avoid a forced smile, looking too tense, appearing unhappy, or smiling too little. The picture may be worn for a while, and your employees should appear friendly and approachable. They can practise in a mirror to see which smile works best.
When taking the picture, position your employees centred and straight in front of your camera. They should have a natural smile or a neutral facial expression. Solid-coloured clothes work best for creating a nice contrast with your background.
Employees will feel more relaxed if they are prepared and calm.
Editing Basics for Crisp Prints
If you want to, you can choose to edit the pictures. There are several excellent online software programs available, including Canva, Luminar Neo, Pixlr, Fotor, and Photopea. Also, Photoshop and Adobe Express are available online.
Why Choose abc identity SOLUTIONS for ID Badge Photos?
Having exceptional ID badge photos is more than just a matter of appearances. We ensure your ID badges are consistent and of high quality. We take the mystery out of printing ID cards. We allow our customers to preview and select their designs to ensure that everything is perfect before printing them.
We also always have someone present to help you with any concerns or questions you may have. Our company goes the extra mile to ensure our customers are satisfied. We want them to say, “wow”, each time they view their badges. At ABC Identity Solutions, we believe that when people see your ID badges, they see you.
We provide “Smart Solutions, Seamless Integrations, and Superior Results.”
Contact us at 204-813-0054 (Canada) or 763-273-5710 (U.S.) or email us at sales@abcidentity.ca to learn how we can help you make a lasting impression on your customers.
