Getting a passport photo might seem like a minor task in the passport application process, but it’s a crucial step that can cause delays if not done correctly. Government regulations are strict, and a rejected photo means delays in getting your passport. So, Where To Take Passport Photos to ensure they meet all requirements and save you time and hassle? This guide will walk you through the best options available, ensuring you get it right the first time.
Getting your passport photo taken correctly is essential for a smooth passport application process. A compliant photo avoids delays and ensures your application is processed without hiccups. Several convenient options exist, from drugstores and post offices to professional studios and even online services. Understanding your choices will help you decide where to take passport photos that best suits your needs and guarantees acceptance.
Key Requirements for Passport Photos
Before diving into locations, it’s vital to understand what makes a passport photo acceptable. U.S. passport photo requirements are detailed and specific. Generally, your photo must be:
- In Color: Black and white photos are not accepted.
- Size: 2×2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head Size: The head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm and 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
- Background: Plain white or off-white background, free of shadows.
- Clarity: Sharp and clear, not blurry or pixelated.
- Expression: Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open and mouth closed.
- Attire: No uniforms, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious or medical reasons and accompanied by a signed statement). Eyeglasses are no longer allowed in passport photos.
- Taken within the last 6 months: Reflecting your current appearance.
For the most up-to-date and detailed guidelines, always refer to the U.S. Department of State’s official passport photo webpage.
Top Locations for Passport Photos
Now that you know what’s required, let’s explore the best places where to take passport photos:
1. Drugstores and Pharmacies: Convenience and Speed
Drugstores like Walgreens and CVS are popular choices for passport photos due to their convenience and speed.
-
Walgreens: Walgreens offers passport photo services with printed photos typically ready in under an hour. They also provide a free digital copy via email. Their service is designed to be government compliant, ensuring your photos meet official standards. No appointment is needed; you can simply walk into the photo counter. Walgreens also caters to babies and children, understanding the specific needs for photographing young ones.
Alt text: A smiling woman having her passport photo taken at the Walgreens photo counter, highlighting the convenience of Walgreens passport photo service.
Walgreens passport photos cost around $16.99 for two printed photos and a digital copy. While they don’t process passport applications, they are a reliable option for just the photos.
-
CVS: Similar to Walgreens, CVS Photo centers also offer passport photo services. They promise photos ready in minutes and guarantee government compliance. CVS also offers digital passport photos and services for infants and children. Like Walgreens, no appointment is necessary. CVS passport photo prices are also in the same range as Walgreens.
Alt text: A close-up of two printed passport photos from CVS, showcasing the standard size and quality expected for passport applications.
Both Walgreens and CVS are excellent options for those seeking quick and readily available passport photos. Their widespread locations make them easily accessible for most people.
2. Post Offices: Official Government Option
Many United States Post Offices (USPS) offer passport photo services in addition to passport application processing.
-
USPS: Opting for the post office is a convenient choice if you plan to apply for your passport in person at the same location. USPS locations that offer passport services generally also provide photo services, ensuring compliance as they are familiar with passport requirements. It’s advisable to check if your local post office offers photo services and if appointments are needed, especially during peak travel seasons.
Alt text: A person handing passport application documents at a USPS counter, indicating that many post offices offer passport photo services along with application processing.
The cost at USPS varies by location but is generally competitive with drugstores. Using the post office can streamline the process if you’re applying in person, making it a one-stop shop for your passport needs.
3. Professional Photography Studios: Expertise and Guaranteed Quality
For those wanting extra assurance and potentially higher quality, professional photography studios are a solid choice.
-
Professional Studios: Photography studios specializing in portraits often offer passport photo services. These professionals have expertise in lighting, posing, and ensuring high-quality images. They are typically more expensive than drugstores or post offices but provide a higher level of personalized service and often guarantee photo acceptance. If you have specific concerns or require photos for international passports with different specifications, a professional studio can be particularly helpful.
Alt text: A photographer in a studio setting, preparing to take a portrait, representing the professional environment and expertise available at photography studios for passport photos.
Research local studios specializing in passport photos to find pricing and ensure they are familiar with the latest passport photo regulations.
4. Online Passport Photo Services: Convenience from Home
Several online services allow you to upload your own photo and have it processed into compliant passport photos.
-
Online Services: Websites and apps like Passport Photo Online and Persofoto enable you to take a photo yourself using your smartphone or digital camera and upload it to their platform. They use AI to check for compliance and offer options to print and ship the photos to you, or provide a digital code for printing at local stores like Walgreens or CVS. This can be the most convenient option if you have time to wait for shipping or prefer to take photos at your own pace at home.
Alt text: A smartphone screen displaying the Passport Photo Online app interface, showing how users can upload and process their photos for passport compliance online.
Be cautious when using online services and ensure they guarantee compliance and offer retakes if your photo is rejected. Check reviews and compare pricing before choosing an online service.
5. DIY Passport Photos: Proceed with Caution
While technically possible, taking passport photos yourself at home is risky if you are not meticulous about following all guidelines.
- DIY at Home: If you choose to take passport photos at home, you’ll need a high-quality camera or smartphone, a plain white background, good lighting, and editing software to ensure the photo meets size and background requirements. Print them on matte or glossy photo paper. This is the most cost-effective option but requires careful attention to detail and a good understanding of passport photo specifications. It’s generally recommended for those confident in their photography and editing skills and as a last resort if other options are unavailable. Always double-check your DIY photos against the official guidelines before submitting them.
Walgreens Passport Photos: A Closer Look
Walgreens stands out as a frequently asked-about location for passport photos. Let’s address some common questions specifically about Walgreens:
- Cost: Walgreens passport photos are priced at $16.99 for two printed photos and a free digital copy. This is competitively priced within the drugstore and post office options.
- Turnaround Time: Photos are typically ready within minutes of being taken, making it a very fast service.
- Digital Copy: Yes, Walgreens provides a free digital copy of your passport photo via email, which is a valuable addition for online passport applications or record-keeping.
- Baby and Child Photos: Walgreens is equipped to take passport photos of babies and young children. They are accustomed to the challenges of photographing infants and can assist in getting a compliant photo.
- Compliance: Walgreens uses tools to ensure photos comply with U.S. government and international regulations. They are generally reliable for meeting passport photo standards.
- Online Ordering: Currently, Walgreens passport photos are only offered in-store, not online.
- Attire Restrictions: Walgreens will inform you of attire restrictions, such as no eyeglasses, hats (unless for religious or medical reasons), uniforms, or camouflage clothing, aligning with official guidelines.
Preparing for Your Passport Photo Session
Regardless of where to take passport photos, some preparation can ensure a smooth and successful session:
- Attire: Wear everyday clothing. Avoid white tops as they can blend into the background.
- Eyeglasses: Remove eyeglasses unless you have a medical exception.
- Hair and Makeup: Style your hair so it doesn’t cover your face. Makeup should be natural.
- Relax and be natural: A neutral expression is best, but a natural, slight smile is also acceptable.
- Infants and Children: For babies, it’s often easiest to lay them on a white sheet for the photo. For toddlers, patience and perhaps a small toy can help.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Place for Your Passport Photo
Deciding where to take passport photos depends on your priorities: convenience, cost, speed, or guaranteed quality. Drugstores like Walgreens and CVS offer a balance of convenience and speed at a reasonable price. Post offices are a good option if you’re applying in person. Professional studios provide expertise and higher quality, while online services offer ultimate convenience from home. DIY photos are possible but require caution.
For most people, a drugstore like Walgreens or CVS is a reliable and convenient choice for passport photos. Their services are designed to be compliant, fast, and accessible. By understanding your options and preparing for your photo session, you can ensure this step of your passport application is stress-free and successful.
