1.5×1.5 inch (38×38 mm) Photo

The 38×38 mm photograph is a square document format requested by certain applications that favour symmetrical proportions. A square frame changes how the head sits within the picture, so the head is set a little smaller than in a tall portrait format to leave even margins on every side.

This page covers the exact rules for the 38×38 mm size, where it is typically required, and the way our studio builds a compliant file ready for both printing and online upload.

When a square 38×38 mm photo is needed

Square sizes such as 38×38 mm are specified on selected identity, permit and membership document applications across different countries. Because square formats are less common than rectangular ones, they are almost always named explicitly on the form or portal. Follow the exact figure your institution provides; if it lists 38×38 mm, this is the format to prepare.

Exact specification

The image is 38 mm wide by 38 mm tall, a perfect square of about 1.5 by 1.5 inches. We render it at 300 dpi for a crisp print. The head should be roughly 28.5 mm from chin to crown, filling about 55 to 72 percent of the frame, which keeps the face centred with balanced space around it in the square layout.

• Size: 38×38 mm (about 1.5×1.5 in) at 300 dpi.
• Head height: roughly 28.5 mm, 55–72 percent of the frame.
• Background: even white (#FFFFFF), no shadows, no texture.
• Expression: neutral, lips closed, no smile, eyes open and visible.
• Glasses: not allowed; remove them before taking the photo.
• Headwear: only plain coverings worn daily for religious reasons, keeping the whole face visible.
• File: JPG no larger than 2 MB.

Why square photos get rejected

The square format brings its own pitfalls. The most frequent is incorrect head sizing, since a head scaled for a tall photo looks oversized in a square one; here it should occupy the lower end of the head-height band. Other recurring issues include a background that is not pure white, shadows cast to one side, a smile or parted lips breaking the neutral rule, and eyes obscured by glasses or hair. We resolve each of these during preparation.

Our preparation process

Send us a clear photo taken in soft, even lighting while facing the camera directly. We centre your head within the square, set the head height to about 28.5 mm so the margins stay balanced, and rebuild the background as a clean white field with any shadows removed. We confirm a relaxed, neutral expression with the eyes open and the mouth closed, then balance the colour and skin tones for a natural, professional look. The finished file is measured against the square dimensions and head-size band to confirm compliance.

Print and digital files

You receive a digital JPG at exactly 38×38 mm, 300 dpi, and under 2 MB, ready for online forms and portals. We also include a print sheet arranged at true physical size with cut lines, so you can order prints at a photo counter or print at home on standard 10×15 cm paper and trim to the square. Both files use the same approved image, so your printed and uploaded photos always match.

Before you submit

Wear clothing that contrasts with the white background, keep hair away from your eyes and the outline of your face, and look straight into the lens with a calm expression. If your application includes any additional wording beyond the standard rules, follow it exactly. With the 38×38 mm square size, correct head height, white background, neutral expression and 2 MB JPG limit all in place, your photograph is ready to submit with confidence.