Frantically Googling “passport photo near me” and need a passport photo ASAP? Whether you’re planning a last-minute trip, renewing your passport, or handling unexpected paperwork, finding a place that offers quick and convenient service is the easiest way to get a new passport photo stat. You don’t want to drive all over town or waste time with places that don’t meet photo requirements. That’s why searching passport photo near me often leads to frustration (or worse, blurry, unusable pictures).

But don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll help you understand what to look for in a reliable photo service, what makes a passport photo compliant, and where you can get it done without the hassle. Because when travel plans are on the line, every minute counts.

List of Contents

What Are the Passport Photo Requirements in the U.S.?

Before you head out in search of a passport photo near me, it helps to know what the U.S. Department of State actually requires. The rules are strict—and for good reason. A photo that doesn’t meet the guidelines can delay your application or get it rejected entirely.

Here’s what your passport photo must include:

Size: Exactly 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
Head Position: Your head should be centered and measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head
Posing: The photo must be a clear shot of your entire face horizontally centered in the photo
Background: Plain white or off-white, with no patterns or shadows
Expression: Neutral facial expression or a natural smile—no exaggerated expressions
Eyes: Open and clearly visible
Glasses: Not allowed (unless medically necessary with a signed note from a doctor)
Clothing: Everyday attire—no uniforms, camouflage, or anything that looks official
Head Coverings: Only allowed for religious or medical purposes (must not obscure or cast shadows on the face)

You also need to make sure the photo is recent—taken within the last six months—and that it’s printed in color on high-quality photo paper (either matte or glossy). No filters, no selfies, no retouching.

It might sound like a lot, but getting a photo that checks all the boxes doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, choosing the right place can make the process surprisingly quick and stress-free.

What About Baby Passport Photo Requirements?

Yes—babies and infants need passport photos too, and the rules are just as strict. While there’s a little more flexibility when it comes to expression and eye contact for newborns, the photo still has to meet U.S. passport requirements.

Here’s what parents should know:

No one else can be in the photo. That includes your hands! You can’t hold the baby, even to support their head.
The background still needs to be plain white. A simple white sheet or blanket can work if you’re laying the baby down.
Eyes should be open. For infants, a relaxed expression is fine—even if they aren’t staring straight at the camera.
No pacifiers, hats, or toys. These are all common reasons for photo rejection.

Taking a passport photo of a squirmy baby at home can be frustrating—and often leads to unusable results. At Mail Boxes Times in Beverly Hills, we know how to work with little ones and take baby-compliant passport photos that meet all the official standards. We’re patient, quick, and experienced in getting it right the first time.

Why “Passport Photo Near Me” Searches Don’t Always Deliver

Typing passport photo near me into a search bar brings up a long list of options—pharmacies, big-box stores, maybe even shipping centers. But just because a location pops up doesn’t mean it’s the right choice.

Many chain stores offer photo services as a side hustle, not a specialty. That can lead to blurry prints, incorrect sizing, or photos that don’t meet government requirements. Some places use outdated equipment. Others don’t train their staff on passport photo standards. And then there’s the wait—long lines, slow processing, or finding out their camera is out of service when you arrive.

A rejected passport photo can delay your travel plans by weeks. That’s why it’s worth going somewhere that does this right.

At Mail Boxes Times, passport photos aren’t just an add-on service—they’re something we take seriously. Our team is trained to follow all U.S. Department of State guidelines, and we make sure your photo is compliant before you leave. Our space is clean, bright, and set up to make the process quick. Most people are in and out in just a few minutes, with everything they need in hand. Whether you’re renewing a passport or applying for the first time, we make sure the photo part is done right—and fast.

What to Bring (and What to Expect)

There’s no need to bring paperwork, but do wear regular clothing (nothing too light or white, since the background is white). Skip hats, headphones, and anything that covers your face (religious or medical headcoverings are okay as long as they don’t obscure or shadow your face). If you normally wear glasses, plan to take them off just for the photo—passport rules don’t allow them, even if they’re prescription.

Once you’re here, the process moves fast. We’ll guide you through the photo setup, check lighting and framing, and capture your image using professional equipment. Photos are printed on the spot—on high-quality photo paper—and handed to you immediately. From start to finish, the whole thing usually takes just a few minutes.

Can I Take and Use My Own Photo? (And Why You Probably Shouldn’t)

Technically, yes—you can take your own passport photo. But getting it approved is another story.

Most DIY photos get rejected. The lighting and sizing required by the U.S. Department of State are difficult to replicate at home. Even things like subtle shadows or a slightly off-center head can cause issues.

Printing at home can be tricky too. Regular printers don’t produce the photo quality passport agencies expect, and resizing the image correctly takes more technical know-how than most people realize.

The truth is, taking it yourself often ends up costing more time and frustration than just getting it done professionally.

Ready to Check “Passport Photo” Off Your List?

Getting a passport photo near me shouldn’t feel like a chore, and with the right place, it isn’t. At Mail Boxes Times in Beverly Hills, we make the process fast, accurate, and stress-free, so you can focus on what actually matters—your upcoming trip, your paperwork, or that long-overdue passport renewal.

Need other documents shipped or notarized while you’re here? We can take care of that too. Our team is here to help streamline your to-do list, not just snap a photo.

Stop by when it works for you—no appointment needed. Or contact us if you’ve got questions. Let’s get that photo checked off today.