The U.S. requires that passport photos measure a 2 inches wide and 2 inches high. Most photo centers are already acquainted with size requirements and do not need special instructions. Many already have special areas set up that reflect established guidelines for passport photos.
Passport photos must be taken in color to accurately showcase your hair, eye and skin color. Photos must be printed on thin, good quality paper. The camera used to take the photograph must be well-focused to avoid distortions or blurring.
A passport photo must show your entire face from the front, including opened eyes that show eye color. Photos must also show the entire head, from the top of the hair, down to the tops of shoulders. Your face should have a natural, relaxed expression. Avoid expressions that are overly emotional. Keep your mouth closed and pull hair away from the face to expose all features.
Wear normal, casual clothing when sitting for passport photos. Avoid noticeable jewelry because it may interfere with the camera flash. Do not wear a uniform, unless it relates to religion. Avoid wearing hats or other headgear that casts shadows on the face or hides the hair or hairline. Individuals who normally wear glasses should wear them in their passport photos, but avoid wearing glasses containing dark lenses, unless they serve a medical purpose, which would require showing a medical certificate as proof. If you wear a wig in real life, wear it in your passport photos as well.
A passport photo should always contain a stark, white background. Off-white is also acceptable. The photographer should avoid creating dark shadows, using light that illuminates the face without casting harsh shadows that obscure facial features or skin color. Likewise, overexposed lighting will result in a bleached-like appearance to the photograph, resulting in an immediate rejection by travel authorities.
Often completed on the spot, most photo centers process passport photos in minutes. Include both passport photos in your passport application package. Note that photos must be a maximum of six months old at the time of application in order to convey a recent and accurate representation of what you look like.
