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How to Caption USCIS Photos: Examples

How to write a short caption for each relationship photo: what was happening, the date, the place and who is in it. With examples.

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Is there an official caption format?

No. USCIS does not give a caption template for relationship photos. A caption is just a way to explain what each photo shows.

Four things to write in a caption

  • What was happening, in a few words.
  • The date. If you do not know the exact day, write the month or the year.
  • The place: city and state, or city and country.
  • Who is in the photo, especially the two of you.

Caption examples

Sample photos. Names, dates and places are made up. Each caption sits right under its photo.

A couple taking a selfie by the sea in Istanbul
Trip to Istanbul · May 15, 2018 · Istanbul, Turkey · Jordan Ellis and Avery Chen
A bride and groom walking out hand in hand as guests clap
Our wedding · December 27, 2018 · Charleston, South Carolina · Jordan, Avery, family and friends
A couple and their dog sitting with Santa
Christmas photo with Santa · December 21, 2019 · Denver, Colorado · Jordan, Avery and their dog
A couple spraying champagne on graduation day, with their dog
Graduation day · May 17, 2021 · Boston, Massachusetts · Jordan Ellis and Avery Chen

Tips for good captions

  • Spell names the same way as on your forms.
  • Do not guess dates, places or relationships. Only write what you know is true.
  • Keep the caption short and right next to its photo.
  • In group photos, say who is who.

Want help? Try our free photo caption generator.

PDF or separate photos?

For online filing, USCIS’s general tips accept PDF, JPG and JPEG files, but upload options depend on your form. One PDF keeps each caption next to its photo. If you mail your case, do not send a physical album or binder.

This is general information, not legal advice. Check the current USCIS instructions for your form, or ask an immigration attorney about your own case.

Frequently asked questions

What should a USCIS photo caption say?

What was happening, the date (or the month or year if you are not sure), the place and who is in the photo. For example: “Family dinner · June 14, 2024 · Denver, Colorado · Sam Lee and Jordan Lee.”

Can I write captions by hand?

USCIS does not say how to write captions. Typed captions next to each photo are easier to read, especially in an uploaded PDF.

Build your USCIS marriage photo album

Organize your relationship photos into a clear, printable PDF. Add accurate dates and captions. Preview free, then pay to save. Your files stay on your device.

Build my marriage photo album

Official references

Community examples (anecdotal, not USCIS policy)

Case Album is independent software, not affiliated with USCIS. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Read our editorial standards.

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