This is a misconception, because while the the passport pictures are not required for DACA application, IT IS REQUIRED for the EAD application, and that is why everyone is getting it done. The past argument that we don't need to submit further proof of identification because we're submitting it the same documents for DACA is a completely different requirement than the photo ID they ask for on the EAD application. It is also independent of the biometrics requirement, because it's true, they will take your picture themselves for that, and for the actual EAD card when you get approved, but you still need to provide photos for application purpose (the word MUST is in bold letters in the instruction). The reason why they ask a photo of you in the application is because they want to see a recent picture of you (within 30 days exactly as it says in the form) before they go on to call you for your biometrics.