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How to take a resume photo in Japan: size, outfit, background, and printing

Learn the 30 x 40 mm resume photo size, outfit tips, background checks, phone shooting points, and convenience-store printing flow.

Machi Photos2026.06.29
How to take a resume photo in Japan: size, outfit, background, and printing

A Japanese resume photo looks better when size, outfit, background, and face position are consistent. With Machi Photos, you can create a 30 x 40 mm resume photo from a phone picture and print it on an L-size sheet at convenience stores.

1. Check the standard resume photo size

Japanese resumes commonly use 40 mm high x 30 mm wide photos. Select the resume 30 x 40 mm preset in Machi Photos and the print layout is prepared automatically.

Choosing the 30 x 40 mm resume photo size

If the employer or application form specifies another size, follow that instruction first. When there is no special instruction, 30 x 40 mm is usually the safest choice.

2. Choose a clean outfit

For job hunting and career changes, a jacket or collared shirt usually works well. For part-time applications, avoid loud patterns and large logos so the photo fits the resume format.

If you wear white on a white background, the shoulders may disappear. Use a jacket or a light plain background when needed.

3. Take a bright front-facing phone photo

Use a bright place, face the camera, and keep the head, chin, and shoulders inside the frame. Check that the eyes are not covered by hair or glasses glare.

Uploading a phone photo for a resume photo

Use a natural expression and avoid heavy retouching or filters.

4. Adjust background and face position

If the background has furniture, shadows, or patterns, change it to white or a plain light color. Align the face center, headroom, and shoulders inside the 30 x 40 mm frame.

5. Print the L-size sheet at a convenience store

After confirming the photo, create an L-size print sheet. A 30 x 40 mm resume photo can be placed multiple times on one L-size photo print.

Resume photo L-size sheet

For convenience-store printing, issue a reservation number or QR code and use it at supported 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and other store copiers.

Resume photo convenience-store print code

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid dark faces, cluttered backgrounds, cut-off heads or shoulders, overly casual clothes, and photos that are too old. Check the employer instructions and the photo box size before printing.

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How to take a resume photo in Japan: size, outfit, background, and printing