> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.1kosmos.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.1kosmos.com/identity-verification/capture-and-tips.md). # Capture & Tips *** ### Overview The resolution of the image should be at least **1080p** (1920×1080 px). Smaller resolutions are accepted, but won't provide optimal results. Larger resolutions are also accepted, but won't improve the scanning process significantly. We **don't recommend going above 4k in *****any***** case**, but even 4k is not necessary for most use cases. ### Prepare Your Document

Tips

Capture clear, well-lit images of both the front and back of the ID document, ensuring all details are legible. Orient the document properly during scanning to avoid distortion or misinterpretation of data.

Positioning the document

Position the ID document so it fills 60–70% of the frame, avoiding extreme angles. Lay the document flat on a dark surface, or hold it in your hand. Do not block any data on the document.

Using lighting

Use natural lighting or a soft, even artificial light source. Avoid harsh overhead lights or direct bright lights that can cause glare or shadows. Find a location with ambient lighting.

Focusing the camera

Ensure the camera focuses on the document, avoiding blurriness. Adjust your distance from the document if necessary.

Ensuring image clarity

Ensure all four edges of the document are visible and all details, including the face (if applicable) and security features, are clear and legible. Avoid obstructions such as fingers or shadows.

Preparing the background

Keep the background clean and uncluttered to avoid distractions.

Avoiding obstructions

Ensure nothing blocks any part of the document, including the edges.

Checking document quality

In some cases, documents in poor condition (for example, peeling laminate, crumpled pages, or moisture damage) may cause the verification process to fail. Ask the customer for an additional ID or substitute document.

Visual Guidelines

The following examples illustrate the correct and incorrect application of the visual best practices outlined above.
### How to capture a Driver's License 1. Avoid glare on the document. Glare is typically from overhead lights or exterior lighting.
No Glare Document Capture
2. Do not use or accept photocopied, expired documents, or screen captures of a document.
No Photocopied & Expired Document
3. Remove all background distractions. This can be defined as objects within the camera screen for document capture, objects on the table or base where the document is positioned etc.
No Background Distraction
4. Ensure entire reverse of document is viewable and no barcodes are blocked by fingerprints or objects.
Align document within the frame
5. Do not cover the document with your fingers on or around the edges.
Do not cover the document
### How to capture Passports 1. Avoid glare on the document. Glare is typically from overhead lights or exterior lighting.
No Glare on the document
2. Do not use or accept photocopied, expired documents, or screen captures of a document.
No photocopy or expired document
3. Remove all background distractions. This can be defined as objects within the camera screen for document capture, objects on the table or base where the document is positioned, etc.
No Background distractions
4. Do not cover the document with your fingers on or around the edges.
Do not cover document
5. Move to the next or back page in the passport with additional biographical details.
Align document within the frame
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