Job-Hunting ID Photos in Japan: What Does a "Plain Background" (Muhaikei) Mean?

Job-Hunting ID Photos #Job-Hunting ID Photo #ID Photo #Resume

October 27, 2022November 6, 2026 Chiharu

Have you actually read the requirements for the ID photo you're submitting?
If you don't check them carefully, you may end up making a worse impression on the interviewer than you'd like...

In this article, we'll explain one of the most common photo requirements for Japanese job applications: the "plain background" (muhaikei)!

What Does "Plain Background" (Muhaikei) Mean?

A plain background means there are no patterns, scenery, or objects visible behind you.
It refers to a solid, evenly colored background.

This type of background is often required for photos used in certification exams, passports, and visas.
Some companies also ask for a plain background in their hiring process, so it's worth knowing what it means before you apply.

Photos You Can't Use for a Plain Background, No. 1: Gradient Backgrounds

If a plain background is required, a gradient background is not allowed.
A blue-to-white gradient is a very common choice for ID photos, but you can't use it if the company has asked for a plain background. Be sure to check the requirements of the company you're applying to.

If you're unsure, shooting against a solid-color background is the safe choice.

Photos You Can't Use for a Plain Background, No. 2: Photos With Shadows

A plain background means nothing should appear behind you at all.
That means a shadow of your body cast on the background is not allowed either.

This is especially important for passport and visa photos.
Your application may be rejected if there are shadows, so it's important to use bright, even lighting that doesn't create any.

What Color Should a Plain Background Be?

The short answer: "any color is fine"!

The most common colors for job-hunting ID photos are blue, white, and gray. If you're not sure what to pick, we recommend choosing one of these three.
For certification exams, passports, and similar uses, a specific background color may be required in addition to a plain background, so be sure to check.

Shoot at a Photo Studio and Meet the Requirements with Confidence!

ID photo requirements cover many things, including the background, file format, and size.
You may often find yourself wondering, "What does this mean?" or "How do I meet this requirement?"

When that happens, don't guess and shoot it yourself. It's best to leave it to a professional.
If you bring the requirements to a photo studio, they can take your photo to match them.

Your job-hunting ID photo is the first thing an interviewer sees of you.
You wouldn't want to submit a photo that unknowingly breaks the rules and give the impression that you can't follow instructions.

At 19 Studio, we support students with ID photos so they can have a job search they feel good about.
Get through your job hunt with an ID photo that shows off your best qualities!

Chiharu: Loves writing articles and is studying copywritingI love writing and I'm currently studying copywriting. I turn the questions our guests often ask and the things I notice in the studio into easy-to-read articles about job-hunting and ID photos, so that even first-timers can understand them.