Passport photos are as exciting as getting them taken. But while there's nothing we can do about the former, we sure can improve the latter. Namibian-German artist Max Siedentopf has just released a photo series that pokes fun at traditional passport photography, trying to inject as much self-expression in this mind-numbing experience as possible.

"I recently had to renew my passport and, of course, also needed to get a new passport photo taken," the professional photographer told Bored Panda. "While sitting in front of the camera and keeping a straight face, I was wondering how something so dull could be 'tricked' and get some more excitement into the whole process of passport photography.

More info: maxsiedentopf.com | Instagram

Image credits: Max Siedentopf

#1

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Max Siedentopf Report

Since Max works across several disciplines, including design, photography, and publishing, he quickly came up with a photoshoot idea. The official passport photo requirements include that the subject needs to face the camera straight on, needs a clear background without shadow, no glare on glasses and most importantly; no smile. However, they say nothing about what happens behind the scenes.

#2

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Max Siedentopf Report

Neon Petra
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Yeah, I'll just... hang here, I guess..."

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"Passport photos have their purpose for being so strict, but in an age of funny selfies and Instagram filters, it would, of course, be nice to see if that could also be applied to your passport," Max added.

After coming up with all the crazy posing activities for his models, Siedentopf started shooting them. But the ridiculously over-the-top setup has taken its toll. For example, one of the funny photos had the subject standing behind a fire, which unexpectedly turned into a 10-foot flame...

"[It's] still a bit early to say if any of the models will use these interesting photos for their passports," Max said. "However, the pictures follow all the official requirements so I sure hope that some of them will use them in the near future."

#7

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Max Siedentopf Report

Wings
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She didn't do her chores when she was told so she became the chore

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#9

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Max Siedentopf Report

Iggy
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a great winter coat. It keeps her nice and toasty.

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#10

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Max Siedentopf Report

Demi Zwaan
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice Photoshop... Water (wine) level should always be straight, even when the glasses are not.

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#11

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Max Siedentopf Report

Iggy
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Adds a whole new meaning to 'family pack'.

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#14

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Max Siedentopf Report

Kioh81
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Help I've got a stage 5 clinger!

#15

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Max Siedentopf Report

SnowyLynx
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The face you make when you walk outside and have to act cool

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#16

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Max Siedentopf Report

ChaiDai
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Is that a teddy bear, or are you just happy to see me?

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#17

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Max Siedentopf Report

Kioh81
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

World's loudest sack race participant

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#19

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Max Siedentopf Report

Kioh81
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Excuse me while I powder my rolls

#22

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Max Siedentopf Report

Kioh81
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And that was when Karen finally knew it was time to get her son out of the house

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#25

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Max Siedentopf Report

Sophia Chan
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I knew something fishy was going on there...

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#26

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Max Siedentopf Report

Wyndmere
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I see the belly roller guy got de-dusted in the shower.

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#28

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Max Siedentopf Report

Non-New-Toni-An
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope that's a print and not a painting

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#29

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Max Siedentopf Report

Elis Malachov
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Has anyone seen Doctor Lecter? He is at it again!

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#30

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Max Siedentopf Report

SnowyLynx
Community Member
4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Makes you wonder what she wants to do out of the country... ; )

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Note: this post originally had 42 images. It’s been shortened to the top 30 images based on user votes.