Resume Photos for Job Changes in Japan: Size, Attire & Where to Shoot
Resume photos for a mid-career job change follow different etiquette from the ones used in new-graduate job hunting. It's easy to feel unsure about what to wear, how to style your hair, and where to get the photo taken.
In this article, we'll walk through everything you need to know about photos for a job change in Japan!
If you're looking for a place to get your photo taken in the Shinjuku area, please consider 19Studio!
We're just a 2-minute walk from Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (and within walking distance of Shinjuku Station too), so we're very easy to reach. You can check today's availability on the 19Studio Shinjuku booking page.
Contents
Photo size and how recent it should be
The photo you attach to a rirekisho (the standard Japanese-style resume form) is generally 4 cm tall × 3 cm wide. Most resume forms sold in stores are designed for this size.
As a rule of thumb, the photo should have been taken within 3 months of the date you apply. Reusing an old photo can make it look different from how you appear now.
| Item | Basics |
|---|---|
| Size | 4 cm tall × 3 cm wide (follow your resume form's specification) |
| When taken | Within 3 months of applying |
| Pose and background | Facing straight ahead, plain background |
| Hats and accessories | Remove them |
If the company specifies a photo format, follow the instructions in the job posting first.
Where to get your photo taken: comparing your options
There are three main ways to get a resume photo for a job change.
| Method | Best for | Things to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| ID photo booth | People who need a photo as quickly as possible | You have to manage your own expression and posture |
| Smartphone / selfie | Applications that only need a digital photo | Shadows and angles can easily change your impression |
| Photo studio | People who want to make a strong first impression | Reservation required |
During the document screening stage, your photo is one of the first things the reviewer sees. If you're applying to many companies, or to one you're especially keen on, we recommend a studio shoot.
Clothing basics
Suit and shirt
A suit in a calm color such as navy, gray, or black is the standard choice. A plain white shirt will brighten the area around your face.
Tie and inner layer
For men, a plain tie or one with a small, subtle pattern is a safe choice. For women, pair your suit with a collared shirt or a blouse with a clean, simple neckline.
Checklist before the shoot
- Smooth out wrinkles in your suit and brush off any dust from the shoulders
- Check that your shirt collar isn't crooked
- Straighten your tie knot
Hair and makeup basics
In a job-change photo, a clean, neat appearance matters most. Choose a hairstyle that clearly shows the outline of your face and your eyes.
- Keep your bangs out of your eyes
- Tie back long hair, or arrange it so it doesn't fall across your face
- Aim for makeup that gives a natural, healthy glow
- Men should shave and tidy their eyebrows
For specific hairstyle examples, see the following articles (in Japanese).
- Recommended hairstyles for men's job-change photos
- Recommended hairstyles for women's job-change photos
Things to watch for when submitting a digital photo
These days, more and more companies ask you to upload your photo file through an application form.
File format and size requirements differ from company to company, so check the job posting before you submit ☑️
Sometimes you may need both a printed photo and a digital file. It's a good idea to confirm at the time of your shoot that you can get both.
Benefits of shooting at a photo studio
A studio shoot has these advantages:
- The photographer can adjust your posture, expression, and collar on the spot
- Proper lighting makes your complexion look bright
- You can look at the shots and choose one you're happy with
19Studio is a studio where you can have photos taken for job hunting and career changes. Photo data and retouching are all included, with no extra fees.
If you later need the photo in a different size, you're welcome to ask us.
We're a 2-minute walk from Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, and you can also walk from Shinjuku Station 🚶
Same-day bookings are available, so we're a convenient choice even when you need a photo in a hurry!
Summary
- The standard size is 4 cm tall × 3 cm wide, and the photo should be taken within the last 3 months
- Wear a suit in a calm color with a plain white shirt for a clean, neat look
- Style your hair so your face and eyes are clearly visible
- Check the job posting to see whether a digital photo is required and what file specifications apply
- If you want to make a good first impression, a studio shoot is a great fit
If you're getting a job-change photo taken in Shinjuku, you can check available times on the 19Studio Shinjuku booking page. Same-day bookings are also possible.
- I have conducted hiring interviews at both listed companies and startups. Drawing on my experience reviewing applications and ID photos as an interviewer, I explain what recruiters really look at in your photo and entry sheet.
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