I found photo guidelines doc from cic website which said the photo should be stamped by studio on the back and write subject's name, dob also. I wa thinking a pdf has to be uploaded with front and back both. But, the final document upload list asks for the photo in jpg.
I am confused whether only front will be attached or front and back? If both, then pdf?
I think the photo specifications you're referring to (the one with your name, date of birth, address of the photographer and date of photo on the back) are for the photos they request once your application is approved and they request hard-copy passport photos from you along with your passport for the PR visa stamp.
For the digital photo upload though, you only need to upload the front of the photo, so a JPEG is fine.
