Variation of craniofacial representation in passport photographs

Abstract

Purpose: Passport photographs are routinely incorporated onto official travel documentation to ascertain an individual’s identity. In Australia, passport photographs may be provided by a range of retail suppliers and photographed to a set of standards developed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Whether these standards can provide consistency between craniofacial representation and other parameters throughout individual subjects is unknown. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach: This study tests the consistency of passport images with regard to parameters that are likely to affect suitability for use as passport documents. These parameters include, space and dimensionality, craniofacial representation, image sharpness, exposure and colour rendition. Findings: The examination found there was a significant degree of variation among the test results despite being completed using the same instructional guidelines designed to produce uniformity. Originality/value: The paper identifies a significant degree of variation among test results and suggests further review.