Sovos Docs

Image capture requirements and tips

Image requirements and practical tips for capturing document and selfie photos during verification.

Document positioning

Capture your entire identity document so all text and security features are clearly visible.

  • Follow the on-screen instructions during the entire process.

  • Include the entire document in the frame with all four corners visible.

  • Avoid placing the document too close or too far to the camera.

  • Keep the document flat and parallel to the camera.

  • Ensure no parts of the document are cut off or outside the frame.

Face positioning

Position your face directly in front of the camera with your entire face visible in the frame.

  • Face the camera straight on, not from the side or at an angle.

  • Keep your entire face in the frame.

  • Avoid shots taken too close or too far from the camera.

  • Don't tilt your head up or down, unless the system instructs you to.

  • Keep both eyes open and look at the camera.

  • Remove items that obscure your face or interfere with facial recognition, such as glasses, hats, caps, or any head coverings, masks or face coverings, or scarves covering any part of the face.

Tip:

Keep your device steady and avoid moving while the camera focuses and captures. If necessary, tap the screen to focus the image before taking the photo.

Lighting conditions

Take photos in well-illuminated environments to avoid glare and shadows.

  • Use natural light or bright indoor lighting.

  • Avoid direct overhead lights that create shadows.

  • Don't use camera flash.

  • Eliminate reflections on the document by slightly tilting it.

  • Avoid direct reflections.

Quality validation

Tip:

Check that images are sharp and all text is readable before submitting them for validation.

Online ID automatically checks image quality during capture by validating:

  • Image resolution meets minimum requirements.

  • Document fits within frame guidelines.

  • Lighting is sufficient for processing.

  • Face is detected and properly positioned.

  • Image sharpness is acceptable.

The system rejects images that are blurry, distorted, pixelated, out of focus, or taken from an incorrect camera distance. When validation fails, you receive immediate feedback with instructions to recapture the image.