[Han Researcher Magazine vol.23] Top 5 FAQs About ID Photos from Japanese Job Seekers

[Han Researcher Magazine vol.23] Top 5 FAQs About ID Photos from Japanese Job Seekers

Top 5 FAQs About ID Photos from Japanese Job Seekers

When you start preparing for job hunting, the first thing you need is an ID photo.

But when you're about to get one, you have a lot of questions.

"Do I have to wear a suit?", "Is a blue background correct?", "Can't I just use an AI to change a selfie?"

I've compiled the questions I've received the most while running a studio for over 10 years.

Today, I'll answer those 5 Q&As clearly! 📸

Q1. Do I have to wear a suit for the photo?

A. It depends on the industry and company culture.

Japanese corporations, finance, and government-related jobs strongly recommend a recruit suit (navy/black suit).

On the other hand, IT startups, creative fields, and foreign companies can give a more natural impression with neat business casual attire.

The key is "Do I look like someone who works at this company?"

Check the atmosphere of employee photos on the company's recruitment page or SNS first. 💡

Q2. I heard that blue is always the best background color, is that true?

A. Blue is the most common, but it depends on your skin tone.

The most common background color for Japanese ID photos is blue (light sky blue).

It gives a sense of trust and cleanliness, so it goes well with job application photos.

However, if you have dark skin, a blue background can make your face look darker.

In this case, choosing a gray or white background can brighten your skin tone. ✨

Background selection criteria:

- Light skin tone → Blue or Gray

- Medium~Dark skin tone → White or Light Gray

- Wearing dark clothes → Give contrast with a bright background

Q3. How much makeup should I wear?

A. "Naturally dressed up" is the answer.

Too much makeup is counterproductive.

What's required in an ID photo is "a face that looks confident in front of the camera," not a pictorial makeup.

Basic points:

- Skin expression: Evenly arrange with BB cream or foundation

- Eyebrows: Fill in naturally without gaps (most important!) 👁

- Eyeliner: Fill in between eyelashes

- Lip: Coral/pink lip balm or lipstick with good color

- Cheek: Natural complexion

The point of hair is to neatly arrange the bangs and around the ears so that the face is clearly visible.

Q4. Can I use a selfie converted by AI as a job application photo?

A. If the quality is good, it's definitely possible.

There are many AI ID photo services these days, and some services actually produce studio-level results.

The important thing is "Is it awkward?"

Check points:

- Does the face look natural (no AI-specific awkwardness)?

- Is the background neatly processed?

- Is the outfit well implemented?

- Does it look like a studio photo overall?

In the case of Monkos.ai, changing the suit outfit with just one selfie is processed naturally,

Many people actually use it for job application documents.

It's available for 990 yen at the current promotion price, so it's good to test it out → monkos.ai 🔗

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Q5. Is there an expiration date for ID photos? When should I take it again?

A. We usually recommend photos taken within 3~6 months.

Most Japanese companies' recruitment guidelines state "taken within 3 months".

Some recognize up to 6 months, but it's best to take a new one just before applying if possible.

Because not only appearance changes, but also changes in hairstyle and weight can give a negative impression if the appearance in the photo is different from the actual interview appearance.

Advantages of AI ID photos: If the period expires, you can immediately remake it with a new selfie, which reduces the cost and time burden 💪

Finishing

One ID photo determines the first impression of the application.

I hope these 5 Q&As introduced today will be of some help in preparing for job hunting 😊

If you are curious about AI ID photos → monkos.ai.

It is available for 990 yen at the current promotional price!