Dear students, when you are preparing to apply for a visa to Japan, take the school entrance exam, or apply for a job, a photo that meets the specifications is the first step to your success.
Today, we will bring you a detailed guide to taking and printing Japanese ID photos to help you pass the review in the first time and avoid delays in important applications due to photo problems.
Photo specifications
The standard ID photo size in Japan is 35mm wide × 45mm high. The background must be white, and the person's head (from top to chin) in the photo should be between 70% and 80% of the total height of the photo, i.e. approximately 32mm to 36mm.
(For specific requirements, please refer to the requirements of the school's official website)
Photo preparation
Clothing: Dark or plain clothing is recommended, avoid fancy patterns or bright colors, and ensure a professional appearance.
Hairstyle: Keep it simple and avoid bangs covering your eyes.
Expression: Smile naturally, but don't show your teeth.
Glasses: Avoid reflective lenses and make sure the glasses do not cover your eyes. Tinted glasses or sunglasses should not be worn.
(This picture is a standard ID photo)
Photo shoot
In Japan, there are a few common options for professional ID photo shooting:
(1) Professional photography shop
A professional photography shop is one of the best options for taking ID photos. These shops are often equipped with professional camera equipment and backgrounds, and photographers are also adept at instructing photographers on how to pose to meet the strict requirements for ID photos. In Japan's big cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, etc., you can easily find several professional photography shops.
(2) Self-service camera
Many supermarkets, drugstores, and train stations in Japan have self-service cameras (except for ID cameras). These cameras are usually pre-set with a variety of ID photo sizes and requirements, and are also more economical.
Although it is cheap and convenient, you may need to adjust your posture and expression yourself when using a self-service camera, and you may not be able to achieve the results of a professional photography shop.
(3) Convenience stores
Some convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, also offer ID photo shooting services in Japan. While this service may not be as widespread and usable as the other options mentioned above, they offer a quick and convenient option.
Photo printers (コピーキオスク) in convenience stores are usually located in a conspicuous location in the store. These machines support a wide range of file formats and storage devices such as USB drives, SD cards, and even print directly from your phone.
Procedure
● Insert media: Insert your USB drive or SD card into the printer, or connect the printer via the mobile app.
（FamilyMart 打印app）
(Lawson Print App)
● Select photos and sizes: Select the photo file you want to print on the touch screen, then select the appropriate photo size and quantity. For ID photos, make sure you choose the correct size (e.g. 35mm x 45mm).
● Print Settings: Adjust the necessary print settings, such as the color and brightness of the photo.
● Preview and confirm: Before printing, the system usually provides a preview, at which point you can reconfirm the size and quality of the photo.
●Start printing: After confirming that everything is correct, select Print and pay according to the machine prompts. Most convenience store printers don't charge until they're printed. Transactions can be made with cash, a transportation card (e.g. Suica or Pasmo) or mobile payment.
Collect photos
When printing is complete, the photo is output from the exit of the machine. Make sure your photos and storage are well stocked. When using public printing devices, pay attention to personal privacy protection. Make sure that after you print and pick up the photos, you delete all temporary files on the printer.
The way you choose to take photos depends on your budget, location, and need for photo quality. If you have high requirements for professional photos, it is recommended to choose a professional photography shop or photo studio. If you're looking for convenience, a self-service camera or convenience store is also a good option.
At the same time, as a person who has come over, Xiaoyuan has also made and sorted out a complete guide manual for all of you who have just arrived in Japan, which contains a total of 100 pages + full of dry goods such as pre-departure preparation, life strategy, and further study strategy, etc., which is intended to pave the way for all aspects of your study abroad life, understand the life of studying in Japan in advance, and also let parents rest assured~