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How to put the front and back of an ID document on a single page

To open an account, rent a home, apply for a job or complete an online procedure, you are often asked for a copy of your ID on both sides. Sending two loose photos, crooked and with shadows, makes a poor impression and can lead to rejection. With a few minutes of preparation you can present a single clean, tidy page.

Why a single page is better

A document with front and back on the same page is easier to review, print and file. The recipient sees all the information at a glance and there is no risk of losing one of the sides. Also, many portals only allow one file per requirement, so joining both sides solves the problem.

It also helps you control what you share: one clearly identified file is easier to manage than several loose images in your gallery.

How to photograph the document

Place it on a flat, plain, dark surface so the contrast highlights the edges. Use indirect natural light or a lamp to one side, never the flash, which creates a white glare on the plastic. Hold the phone parallel to the document and frame it so it is fully visible, without cutting off the corners.

Check that the data, photo and numbers are sharp when zoomed in. Retake the shot if there are reflections, fingers covering it or blur.

Cropping and straightening in Zipnify

Open the front and back tool, and choose the photo of the front and of the back. The auto-crop option detects the document edges and removes the surplus background. If it is not perfect, adjust the corners by hand and rotate the image if needed.

Everything happens in your browser. Images of your document are not uploaded to any server, which is especially important for this kind of file.

Choosing layout and orientation

By default, the two sides are placed next to each other. You can change the layout so they sit one below the other, and choose whether the sheet is portrait or landscape. On a portrait sheet, two cards side by side come out smaller; stacked, they use the width better and read more easily.

You can also choose the sheet size, A4 or Letter, or a size fitted to the content, and enable a thin border so the edge of the document is distinguishable.

Output format

If the procedure asks for a PDF, choose PDF. If it only accepts an image, choose JPG or PNG; JPG weighs less and is usually enough. For portals with size limits, generate the file and, if needed, reduce it with the exact size tool.

Name the file clearly, for example 'ID - First Last', and avoid sending expired documents.

Staying safe when sharing your identity

Share the copy only with those who really need it and for the stated purpose. When possible, add a usage note on the sheet itself, for example 'For rental only - date', which makes misuse harder.

Delete copies you no longer need from your gallery and downloads folder, and avoid sending identity documents through channels you do not know.

Try the tool: Front & back on one page

Frequently asked questions

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