Passports are a critical piece of international travel! When your passport expires, you’ll need to get a new one – which can be a pain. So, the question is, can you print your own photo for your passport? The answer is yes – but there are some restrictions. Keep reading to find out more about passport photo printing!
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What type of photo is required for a passport application?
Just like you need a passport to travel to another country, you also need a passport photo to apply for a passport. But what type of photo should you use? The U.S. Department of State has specific requirements for passport photos.
- First, the photo must be in color and taken within the last six months.
- Second, it must be two inches square and have a white background.
- Third, you must be facing the camera directly with a neutral expression.
- And fourth, your hair should be pulled back from your face.
If you’re looking to get that perfect passport photo, make sure you follow these guidelines.
How to take a good passport photo
Let’s face it, nobody looks good in a passport photo. The harsh lighting and close crop combine to create an unflattering image that will be accompanying you on all your international travels for the next ten years. But there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage. First, make sure your hair is neatly styled and out of your face. If you wear glasses, take them off for the photo. And most importantly, try to relax and give a natural-looking smile. With a little effort, you can ensure that your passport photo is the best possible representation of you!
Passport Photo Printing at Home
While you could go to a professional photographer, it’s actually quite easy to take your own passport photos at home. All you need is a digital camera, a printer, and a few sheets of paper. Here’s how to do it:
- First, find a well-lit space with a plain background. You don’t want your photo to be too dark or too bright, and you definitely don’t want anything in the background that will distract from your face.
- Second, set your camera on a timer or tripod so that your hands are free to hold the passport photo template against your face.
- Third, position the template so that your head is in the middle and your eyes are level with the top line.
- Fourth, take a photo.
- Fifth, print it out on photo paper or use an online service to print it for you.
- Sixth, cut out the photo using the template as a guide. And that’s it! You’ve just taken and printed your own passport photo at home.
Tips for ensuring your passport photo meets all the requirements
Anyone who has ever been through the passport application process knows that one of the most important (and often most difficult) requirements is to submit a passport photo that meets all the criteria. Here are a few tips to ensure that your passport photo is up to snuff:
1. Make sure you have a plain background. A solid color wall or sheet is ideal.
2. The photo should be taken from directly in front of you, with your face taking up approximately 60% of the frame.
3. Wear plain clothes with no patterns or logos. If you must wear a uniform, make sure the details are not visible in the photo.
4. Remove any glasses or hats that you normally wear. If you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, make sure there is no reflection in them.
5. Try to have a neutral expression – no smiling, mouth open, etc.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to getting a great passport photo!
What to do if your passport photo is rejected
Your passport photo was rejected… Now what?
You have two options: you can either try again, making sure to follow the guidelines exactly, or get your photo professionally done.
If you’re not sure whether your photo meets all of the requirements, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have it taken by a professional passport photographer. And if all else fails, you can always try again. After all, they say that the third time’s the charm.
Now that you know everything there is to know about taking the perfect passport photo, go ahead and book that international trip you’ve been daydreaming about. And don’t forget to snap a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower while you’re there!
Mail Boxes Times is the perfect place to get your passport photo taken. We have years of experience and know exactly what the requirements are. Plus, we can print your photo on the spot, so you don’t have to worry about it being rejected. Come into our store today and let us help you get one step closer to your dream vacation!