Canadian Passport Photos &
Canadian Citizenship Photos — Santa Clarita
Canadian Visa Photos Near Santa Clarita —
Ready in 1 Hour ·
Zero Rejections
Karen Vaisman Photography is a listed resource for the Embassy of Canada specializing in Canadian Passport Photos and Canadian Citizenship Photos.
IRCC compliant,
Canadian passport, citizenship and visa photos — visitor visa, study permit and work permit — all require the same exact
If your photo is ever rejected, we retake it at no charge. In
to Agoura Hills
Families from
- ✓
5 studio lights —shadow-free photo - ✓Exact
50×70mm cut — dedicated Canadian cutter - ✓Permanent
non-smear studio stamp - ✓Children & infant photos welcome
- ✓Ready in 1 hour
Trusted by 300+ 5-Star Clients
Serving Valencia,
Zero Known Rejections In
See 300+ 5-star reviews on Google ›
We had a Canadian passport rejected that we had done at FedEx due to a shadow on my face. We could not see a shadow whatsoever but needed a new one done ASAP. Karen got me into her studio that same day and had the photos processed in 35 minutes with the correct stamp for the Canadian passport. She was excellent. We strongly recommend her work.
Why Santa Clarita Families Travel to Agoura Hills
Many Canadian citizens travel from Santa Clarita, Valencia, Newhall, Canyon Country and Stevenson Ranch to our Agoura Hills studio for Canadian passport and citizenship photos.
Families often bring multiple relatives for citizenship grants, proof of citizenship certificates, passport applications, children’s applications and infant photos. Many later return for Canadian passport photos after their citizenship is approved and frequently refer family members, friends and relatives.
Canadian photo requirements are much stricter than standard U.S. passport photos, which is why many clients tell us the peace of mind is worth the drive.
For many families, the peace of mind is worth the drive.
The required studio stamp — included on one Canadian passport photo and one Canadian citizenship photo. Permanent non-smear ink, studio name, address and date.
Canadian Passport Photo Studio Stamp — The Rejection Reason Nobody Warns You About
Most photo locations don't know the stamp exists. If it's missing or written in smearable ink, your application comes back — even if the photo itself looks perfect.
- ✓ Required commercial studio stamp — studio name, address & date
- ✓ Permanent non-smear ink formulated for resin-coated photographic paper
- ✓ Space left for any additional required information or signatures
- ✓ Digital text file with all required studio information included with every digital file order — ready to upload alongside your photo
- ✓ Non-smear pen provided at the session for anything you need to write
- ✓ Stamp on second photo available for an additional fee if your application requires it
- ✓ 30+ years photographing Canadian passport and citizenship photos with zero known government rejections
REAL CLIENT EXPERIENCE
Why Santa Clarita Families Travel To Our Agoura Hills Studio
Many Canadian citizens travel from Santa Clarita, Valencia, Newhall, Canyon Country and Stevenson Ranch to our Agoura Hills studio for Canadian passport photos, citizenship certificates, proof of citizenship applications and children's passport photos.
Families often bring multiple relatives for citizenship grants, passport applications, proof of citizenship certificates and infant passport photos. Many later return for Canadian passport renewals after their citizenship is approved.
Canadian photo requirements are significantly stricter than standard U.S. passport photos. Clients tell us the peace of mind is worth the drive because they know their photos will be prepared correctly the first time.
✓ Proof of citizenship certificates
✓ Multiple family members
✓ Children & infant photos
✓ Ready in about 1 hour
For many families, the peace of mind is worth the drive.
Canadian Passport Photos Can Be Rejected From the Back — Not Just the Front
For Canadian passport applications, the back of one photo must include the photo studio name, complete address, and the date the photo was taken. For new adult and child passport applications, a guarantor may also need to sign and certify one photo. If the wrong pen or ink is used on resin-coated photo paper, that required information can smear, transfer, or become unreadable.
Done Wrong: Standard Ink Can Smear on Resin-Coated Photo Paper
What can go wrong: drug stores may use standard ink or ballpoint pens on resin-coated photographic paper. That ink can smear, rub off, or transfer when the photos are stacked in the envelope — from the back of one photo onto the face of the other. Many people do not notice the damage until they get home.
- Ink can transfer from the back of one photo onto the face of the other
- Studio information or date may become illegible
- Guarantor writing or signature may smear when required
Done Right: Permanent Non-Smear Ink and Guarantor Space
How Karen does it correctly: the studio name, complete address, and photo date are applied with permanent non-smear stamp ink designed to stay clean and readable on photo paper.
- Permanent non-smear stamp ink used for the studio address and date
- Space left for guarantor certification and signature when required
- Non-smear ink pen available if the guarantor section is completed at the studio
Small detail. Big difference. The front of the photo, the back-side stamp, the date, and the guarantor section all need to stay clean and readable before the photos go into the envelope.
Specialist In Infant & Child
Canadian Passport Photos
& Canadian Citizenship Photos
- Large Studio Softboxes: Gentle professional lighting eliminates shadows—perfect for strict Canadian standards.
- Expert Flat-Lay Setup: Safe, white backgrounds for newborns—the gold standard for Canadian Passport Photos.
- Warm & Relaxed: Studio space heaters ensure your infant remains comfortable and calm.
- 30 Years of Success: Redos provided at no charge if a government rejection ever occurs.
Rejection Cause #1
Shadows on Photo
Meet our Shadow-Free Passport Photo Studio
This is not a drugstore passport photo.
Shadows on the face or background are one of the most common reasons passport photos are rejected — and one of the hardest to fix at home. Drugstore lighting creates shadows. Phone cameras create shadows. Even well-intentioned DIY photos often fail because the lighting isn't controlled.
Karen's studio uses 5 professional lights specifically to eliminate shadows — because a shadow-free photo is a compliant photo. Every passport photo is reviewed on an iPad before you leave so you can see exactly what's being submitted with your application.
Shadow-free lighting. Accurate sizing.
Ready in 1 hour.
Canadian Passport Photos Canadian Citizenship Photos Canadian Visa Photos Cut to Exact 50 x 70 mm Size
Canadian passport and citizenship photos must be cut to an exact 50 x 70 mm — a different size from standard U.S. passport photos. Karen uses a dedicated Canadian photo cutter to ensure every print meets precise government specifications.
An incorrectly sized photo is one of the most common reasons Canadian applications are returned — even when the photo itself looks perfect.
- Printed and cut to exact 50 × 70 mm — not approximated
- Covers Canadian passport, citizenship and visa applications
- Clean edges, accurate crop, proper head-size framing
- Zero known rejections in 30+ years
Or call Karen — (818) 991-7787
Mon–Sat, 9am–5pm
We are often asked to retake photos from applications that have failed to pass inspection by the Canadian government. We are PROUD to say that we have NEVER had a photo rejected. We have heard horror stories of applications being rejected 5 or 10 times because the photo was cut wrong, the size of the head was wrong, the person’s expression was incorrect or they were wearing inappropriate headwear or glasses, or the lighting was wrong. WE ARE METICULOUS about following the regulations and we have had a 100% PASS rate for all of our years in business (over 20 years.) We are very proud of our record. We understand no one is infallible, but we try REALLY hard to keep our perfect record. We will retake your photo for FREE if it fails, though it never has. Check our 5-Star reviews! We offer premium quality and the best customer service. Our turn around is in just one hour! We look forward to working with you!
Needed my Canadian Passport Photos done and Karen was phenomenal. She took multiple photos and made sure they were up to the rigorous Canadian requirements. Not only that, but she knew I was on a deadline and she followed up with me to make sure everything was on track. Karen goes above and beyond and I highly recommend.
New Canadian Passport Photos Near Me
Need a professional Canadian Passport Photos Near Me or Canadian Citizenship Photos
completed in Just 1 Hour in Thousand Oaks?
Passport Photos - and Canadian Citizenship Photos, ID and Immigration Photos - Quality that Speaks for Itself
When it comes to passport photos, the stakes are high. The Canadian government is strict about photo specifications for the official citizenship application for Canada citizenship, and rightly so. A quick glance at the Canadian passport official government site reveals the requirements on just how intricate these guidelines can be. Everything from the lighting and facial expression to the position of your head and eyes has to be just right in your passport photo, immigration photos, international passport, passport visa and official passport photographs.
Karen Vaisman Photography, a premier studio and master retouch artist, prides itself on its attention to detail. They ensure that your passport application photos aren’t just compliant; it's flattering. Their state-of-the-art equipment captures you in the best light, both metaphorically and literally.
Serving Santa Clarita, Valencia & Newhall
Many Canadian citizens from Santa Clarita, Valencia, Newhall, Canyon Country, Saugus and Stevenson Ranch choose our Agoura Hills studio because Canadian passport and citizenship photos have stricter requirements than standard U.S. passport photos.
Families often visit for:
✓ Canadian passport renewals
✓ First-time Canadian passports
✓ Proof of Citizenship Certificate applications
✓ Citizenship grants
✓ Children's passport photos
✓ Infant passport photos
✓ Multiple family member applications
Many clients tell us the peace of mind is worth the drive when the photos need to be done correctly the first time.
Travel in Canada knowing you have the highest quality Canadian Passport Photo possible!
Our Premier Professional Photography Studio for Canadian Passport Photos:
Karen Vaisman Photography
5624 Silver Valley Ave
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Call our Studio Store at
(818) 991-7787
for More Information for Visa, ID, Canadian Citizenship Photos or
Passport Photos Near Me in
Santa Clarita, California
(Los Angeles) Or Email Here:
Professional Canadian
Passport Photos
10 minute photo session
1 hour turn-around time
for your Photos
(818) 991-7787
Canadian Passport Photo Example
Need to know what to wear for the perfect passport photo? It is similar to wardrobe for professional headshots.
Schedule your passport photo appointment online
We are located in Agoura Hills
or call
Phone: (818) 991-7787
Canadian Passport Photos Near Santa Clarita
Serving the Santa Clarita Valley from Our Agoura Hills Studio
Santa Clarita is about 25 minutes from Karen Vaisman Photography's Agoura Hills studio via the 101 and 23. Clients from Santa Clarita, Valencia, and Newhall come to Karen because they know their Canadian passport and Canadian citizenship photos will be done correctly the first time — measured, stamped on one photo, and printed to exact Canadian government specifications.
"In 30+ years, not one Canadian passport photo has ever been rejected. I am meticulous about every measurement — because Canadian passport photos must meet exact biometric standards, and there is no margin for error."
Whether you need a Canadian passport photo, Canadian citizenship photo, or Canadian permanent resident card photo, every session includes the required non-smear ink studio stamp on the back of one photo — a specification many photo locations have never heard of.
Also offering: British passport photos and foreign passport photos for all countries — UK, Irish, German, Israeli, Australian, Indian, and more.
Canadian Passport Photos Near Me — also serving:
Palmdale & Lancaster ·
Burbank ·
Los Angeles ·
Woodland Hills ·
Westlake Village
Professional Canadian passport photo examples — Karen Vaisman Photography, Agoura Hills
See Karen's full wardrobe guide →
"Awesome, straightforward and effective if you need a Canadian Passport photo!"
Rating
Karen Vaisman Photography
Have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions — Canadian Passport Photos & Canadian Citizenship Photos
No — they are completely different. Canadian passport photos have their own strict government specifications including precise dimensions, background color, head measurements, lighting requirements, and a mandatory commercial studio stamp on the back. A photo taken for a U.S. passport will not be accepted for a Canadian passport or citizenship application. This is one of the most common reasons applications are rejected.
Yes. The Canadian government requires that passport and citizenship photos be taken by a recognized commercial photographer or studio. Many retail photo locations do not provide the commercial studio stamp, permanent non-smear ink, and documentation required for Canadian passport and citizenship applications.
Karen Vaisman Photography uses a professionally produced studio stamp with non-smear ink specially formulated to adhere to photographic paper, ensuring your application goes through cleanly.
The Canadian government requires a commercial studio stamp on the back of one of your two print photos. The stamp must include the studio name, address, and the date the photo was taken. Here is what is included in every Karen Vaisman Photography Canadian passport package:
- Two compliant prints sized to exact Canadian government specifications
- Commercial studio stamp on the back of one of the two prints
- Precise head measurements meeting strict Canadian government requirements
- Exact pixel dimensions and file specifications if a digital file is included in your package
Additional prints, a second stamp, or a digital file add-on are available for purchase separately if needed.
Different packages offer different products. Please review the packages above carefully before booking. As a general guide:
- All packages include two compliant prints with the commercial studio stamp on the back of one print
- Digital files are available in select packages or as an add-on — they meet the exact pixel dimensions and file specifications required by the Canadian government for online applications
- Digital files are sized to government specifications — not to be used for printing
- Additional prints, a second stamp, or digital file add-ons can be purchased separately
Questions about which package is right for you? Call Karen at (818) 991-7787.
The key difference comes down to the stamp requirements on the back of the print. Canadian passport photos and Canadian citizenship photos are governed by different departments and each has its own specific stamp requirements. Karen is experienced with both and will provide the correct stamp and documentation for whichever application you are submitting. If you are unsure which you need, call Karen at (818) 991-7787 before booking.
Photos are ready in just 1 hour. Karen normally works by appointment — book online using the widget above. If you have an urgent situation, call Karen directly at (818) 991-7787 and she can sometimes accommodate same-day appointments depending on availability.
Karen Vaisman Photography is located in Agoura Hills, approximately 35–45 minutes from Santa Clarita. Because government requirements for Canadian photos are so precise, many residents find it worth the drive to have their photos done correctly the first time by a specialist. Photos are ready in 1 hour. Book online or call (818) 991-7787.
While retail locations often struggle with Canadian compliance, we provide a specialized, stress-free experience. Residents choose us for our certified studio stamp, non-smear ink, and proven zero-rejection record. We frequently accommodate entire families in one appointment, providing the peace of mind that comes with professional expertise.
Yes. Karen photographs both Canadian passport photos and Canadian citizenship photos. Although the photo sizes are similar, the stamp and documentation requirements differ depending on the application type. If you're unsure which type of photo you need, call before booking and Karen will help determine the correct requirements.
We have never had a Canadian passport or citizenship photo known to be rejected. If yours ever is, we will retake it for free — though we have never needed to. Karen is meticulous about every detail: precise head measurements, exact print dimensions, correct pixel specifications, proper lighting with no shadows, and the correct commercial studio stamp. Clients travel from Bakersfield, San Diego, Lancaster, Pasadena, and Marina del Rey specifically because they trust our compliance record.
The Canadian government has strict technical requirements. Karen handles all of these for you, but here is what goes into a compliant photo:
- Neutral expression — no teeth showing, no smile
- Chin at proper level relative to the camera
- Both eyes fully visible and open
- Head size meeting precise government measurement specifications
- Exact print dimensions per Canadian government requirements
- Plain white background with no shadows
- Commercial studio stamp on the back of one print
- Photo taken within the last 6 months
It is all in the details — and Karen is meticulous about every single one.
Yes! Karen specializes in infant and child Canadian passport and citizenship photos. Even if your baby cannot sit or stand on their own, Karen has techniques to get a compliant, accepted photo every time. Call ahead so Karen can prepare for your little one: (818) 991-7787.
Wear a solid colored top that contrasts with the white background. Avoid white, off-white, or very light tops. Do not wear glasses, hats, or any headwear unless worn daily for religious reasons. No uniforms.
One tip Karen shares with clients concerned about neck appearance: since no retouching is allowed on government ID photos, some women choose to wear a turtleneck or higher neckline to feel their most confident in the final photo. For more wardrobe guidance visit our What to Wear page. Karen is also happy to advise you before your session — call (818) 991-7787.
Yes, depending on the package selected or as an add-on. Digital files meet the exact pixel dimensions and file specifications required by the Canadian government for online applications. These files are sized to government specifications — not to be used for printing. See our full products and services page for details.
Absolutely. We frequently help clients whose photos were rejected elsewhere. The most common reasons are:
- Shadows on the face or background
- Incorrect head size or measurements
- Wrong print dimensions
- Missing commercial studio stamp
- Stamp written in ballpoint pen that smeared on the photo paper
Karen will make sure your new photos meet every requirement precisely. Same-day appointments are often available for urgent situations — call (818) 991-7787.
Karen Vaisman Photography is a premier photography studio located at 5624 Silver Valley Avenue, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 — just off the 101 Freeway at Reyes Adobe, minutes from Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village. Book online using the widget above or call (818) 991-7787. Monday–Saturday, 9am–5pm, by appointment only. Same-day appointments sometimes available — call to check.
