[Starting University This Spring?] How to Take a Student ID Photo for Japanese Universities
Your student ID is something you can't do without during university life!
As a new chapter begins, the moment you receive your student ID card feels special.
It is an important item that proves you are a university student, and you can even use it for student discounts at movie theaters, karaoke places, and more.
Since you'll be carrying it around, you probably want a photo you're happy with, right?
In this article, we explain how to take a photo for your student ID and what kind of look works best.
Contents
What do you use a student ID for?
Your student ID comes in handy in all kinds of situations during university life! For example...
1. Proving your identity on campus
When borrowing books from the library, taking exams, or using campus facilities.
2. Buying a student commuter pass
Use the student discount to save on transportation costs!
3. Getting student discounts
Student discounts are available at movie theaters, art museums, museums, and more!
4. ID for part-time jobs
Your workplace may ask to see your student ID.
5. Identity check for exams and certifications
It is often required for university exams and certification exams as well.
Because you'll use it so often, it's worth preparing a good ID photo!
Tips for taking your student ID photo
A student ID also works as official photo ID, so first impressions matter. With a few small touches, you can look your best!
1. Keep your expression natural!
- A completely blank face can look stern or intimidating.
- Don't overdo the smile, either! Just a slight lift at the corners of your mouth is best.
2. Your clothing matters too!
- Choose simple, clean-looking clothes.
- It's safest to avoid patterns and flashy logos.
- A collared shirt or a simple top is a good choice.
3. Style your hair neatly
- Keep your bangs out of your eyes.
- Styling your hair so your face is clearly visible is ideal.
- A tidy, clean look makes a better impression!
4. Keep the background simple!
- A plain background, such as white or blue, is best.
- Avoid selfies. Use an ID photo booth or a photo studio instead.
5. Be careful with glasses and accessories
- If you wear glasses, watch out for glare and light reflections!
- Take off large accessories such as earrings and necklaces.
6. Check the photo size in advance!
- The standard size is 4 cm tall × 3 cm wide, but it can differ from university to university, so be sure to check!
Not just photo booths! Different ways to get an ID photo
There are plenty of options, so choose the style that suits you best!
Here are the advantages of each.
1. Leave it to the pros at a photo studio!
- You get a high-quality photo.
- A professional photographer helps bring out a natural expression.
- The background and lighting are done perfectly!
2. Quick and easy with an ID photo booth!
- Booths are found in train stations and shopping malls, so they're convenient.
- They're inexpensive and take very little time.
- You can also retake the photo until you're satisfied.
3. Take it at home with a smartphone app!
- You can shoot at home and stay relaxed.
- Apps let you make small adjustments, but don't over-edit!
- Printing at a convenience store keeps the cost low.
Your student ID will be used for all four years of university.
If you want a polished photo you'll be happy with, we recommend having it taken at a photo studio!
Need a student ID photo in Shinjuku? We recommend 19Studio!
The quality of ID photo booths varies a lot by model. Older machines may have weak lighting that makes your face look dark, or may not let you receive your photo as digital data. If you want consistently high-quality ID photos, we recommend having them taken at a studio.
19Studio also accepts same-day reservations, so it's a good choice if you need your ID photo in a hurry.
Summary
Your student ID is an essential item in university life! That's why it's worth choosing the right ID photo and aiming for a clean, friendly impression.
Using a photo studio or an ID photo booth can help you get a higher-quality photo.
When you shoot, pay attention to the details too, such as your expression, clothing, and hairstyle. Prepare well and get a student ID you'll love!
- I'm involved in 19Studio as a new business of an IT company, and my day job is advertising and marketing. I'm good at thinking about how to get the right information to the people who need it, and I work on making our prices, services and booking as clear and easy as possible.
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