Passport photos are a necessary, yet often overlooked part of traveling. Whether you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, it’s important to ensure that your photo meets the criteria set by the government. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when taking your passport photo:
Do:
1. Choose a plain, light-colored background: The background of your passport photo should be plain and light-colored, such as white or off-white. Avoid busy backgrounds or patterns that could interfere with the facial recognition technology used by border control agencies.
2. Wear appropriate clothing: When taking your passport photo, it’s important to wear clothing that you would normally wear on a daily basis. Avoid wearing hats, scarves, or sunglasses that cover your face, as these items could be considered obstructive and may result in your photo being rejected.
3. Keep your facial expression neutral: When taking your passport photo, make sure to keep a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and eyes open. Avoid smiling or frowning, as this could interfere with the accuracy of the facial recognition technology.
4. Ensure proper lighting: Good lighting is key to taking a successful passport photo. Make sure to avoid harsh shadows or glare on your face, and ensure that your face is evenly lit with no reflections on your glasses, if applicable.
5. Follow the sizing guidelines: Passport photos must be a specific size, usually 2×2 inches in the United States. Make sure to follow the sizing guidelines set by your government to avoid your photo being rejected.
Don’t:
1. Use filters or editing software: Passport photos must be an accurate representation of your appearance, so avoid using filters or editing software to enhance or alter your photo. Your photo should be a true reflection of how you look in person.
2. Wear distracting jewelry or accessories: While it’s important to wear clothing that you would normally wear, it’s best to avoid wearing distracting jewelry or accessories that could draw attention away from your face. Keep it simple and avoid large or flashy accessories.
3. Take a selfie: Passport photos should be taken by a professional photographer or using a high-quality camera with a neutral background. Avoid taking a selfie or using a low-quality camera, as this could result in your photo being rejected.
4. Include other people or pets: Your passport photo should only include yourself, so avoid including other people or pets in the background. Your photo should focus solely on your face with no other distractions.
5. Wait until the last minute: It’s important to take your passport photo well in advance of your travel plans to allow for any re-takes or corrections that may be needed. Don’t wait until the last minute to take your photo, as this could result in delays in receiving your passport.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your passport photo meets the necessary criteria and helps to expedite the passport application process. Taking the time to take a proper passport photo now can save you time and hassle in the long run.
