A method of recoding a photograph for use in a personal photo identification document such as a passport includes using a digital image capture system, including a digital camera, a computer processor, and memory to store specifications and requirements for a photo print in order to be compliant for use in a user selected photo ID such as a passport for a selected country or jurisdiction, using the digital image capture system to capture a facial image, using facial image processing techniques to provide automatic detection of a face and facial feature points on the facial image, processing the facial image and generating a visual indication of compliance, and when compliant, generating the photograph based on the compliant facial image.