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Are you preparing for an international trip? Then it’s time to get your passport ready! To apply for a passport, you need a recent passport photo taken within the last six months. If you want a great passport photo, there are a few steps you need to take. In Vietnam, passports are valid for 10 years if you're 14 or older, so be ready to live with this photo for quite a while.
Steps
Preparation on the Day of the Passport Photo
Style your hair. Avoid changing your regular hairstyle when taking your passport photo. It should represent your usual look to avoid delays at customs.
- Do not wear hats or any accessories that cover your hair unless it's part of your daily routine for religious purposes. For U.S. passports, if you wear a headscarf, your face must remain fully visible. The headscarf cannot hide your hairline or cast any shadow on your face.
Apply makeup as you normally would. If you have a makeup routine, stick to it as usual. If you don’t usually wear makeup, you probably don’t want to go overboard just for a photo. Doing so can make your face look dramatically different, and you could be delayed at security checkpoints.
- Optionally, you can apply some oil-absorbing powder to control shine on your forehead and nose.
- Even if you don't often wear makeup, a little concealer or powder under your eyes can help cover dark circles, which could make you look tired or unwell.
Choose appropriate attire. Keep in mind that your passport will be used for several purposes other than just international travel (for example, you might need it for a background check when applying for a job). Go for simple, solid-colored clothing in muted tones.
- Wear something stylish and comfortable.
- Avoid overly flashy outfits that draw attention away from your face.
- Pay attention to your top, as it will appear in the photo. High-necked shirts or collared shirts are ideal. Avoid low-cut tops or strapless shirts, as they can give the impression that you're not wearing any clothes. Be cautious with necklines.
- Since the photo will be taken against a white or black background, avoid wearing these colors. Choose a color that complements your skin tone.
- Keep jewelry to a minimum.
- Uniforms or anything resembling a uniform (including camouflage) are not acceptable unless they’re part of your daily religious attire.
- Some people report that passport authorities have rejected their photos because they appeared too similar to a previous one, meaning the authorities couldn’t verify the photo was recent. So, you may want to wear something different from your previous photo if you're renewing your passport.
During the Passport Photo Session
Check your teeth. Make sure you brush your teeth in the morning before your passport photo to ensure your smile is bright. Before taking the photo, visit the restroom or use a handheld mirror to double-check your oral hygiene.
Do not wear glasses as this is a requirement.
- If you must wear glasses for medical reasons, bring a doctor's note when applying for your passport.
- Touch up your makeup. If your skin tends to get oily in photos, apply some oil-absorbing powder before the photo session. Also, check your lipstick for smudges or whether your eye makeup has smudged.
Check your hair. If you choose to wear your hair down (especially if it’s long), you may want to comb it forward if desired. For shorter hair, style it however you prefer. Apply a small amount of gel or mousse to your fingers and smooth it through your hair before the photo to keep any stray hairs in place.
- If your hair is very long, it’s best to pull just one side forward. If your hair covers both the straps of your shirt or sleeves, it could look like you’re not wearing clothes.
Follow the instructions carefully. When someone else is taking your passport photo, make sure to listen to their directions carefully. They aim to capture the most flattering angle for you, so be sure to follow their guidance and don’t adjust your posture unless asked. Passport photo regulations about distance are very strict, so ensure you’re in the right position.
- The photographer will ask you to look directly at the camera, as this is a requirement by the government. If you’re taking the photo yourself, ensure your back is straight and your eyes are focused on the camera.
- Your head should be positioned between 50% and 69% of the height of the photo. Measure from the top of your head (including any permitted accessories) down to your chin.
Keep your back and shoulders straight. Make sure you exude confidence with a straight posture. Keep your chest out and your back straight. Avoid tilting your head upwards to prevent the appearance of a double chin, as it can make your neck appear thicker. Instead, slightly push your chin forward (a little more than normal, but not too much).
Smile if allowed in your passport photo. Typically, a “natural smile” (without showing your teeth) or a neutral expression is allowed in passport photos. Choose an expression that enhances your face, but listen to the photographer if they suggest you look unnatural.
- If your expression appears “unusual” or you squint, the officer receiving your application may reject your photo, which could delay your passport application.
- If you decide not to smile, think of something pleasant so that your eyes look friendly and warm.
Get involved in selecting your photo. A thoughtful photographer will review the photos with you and point out the ones they believe are the best based on their professional opinion. Be confident and choose your favorite if you disagree with the photographer, but make sure the photo complies with the regulations.
Preparing before taking your passport photo
Choose the location for your photo. There are numerous options, each with its own set of benefits. Opt for a place that is convenient and suits your budget. You can take a great photo without spending much, but of course, professional photographers will provide the highest quality. In the U.S., some photo locations require an appointment, so plan ahead. Some options include:
- Shipping companies (such as FedEx and UPS in the U.S.)
- Membership-based locations (e.g., Costco and AAA)
- Costco offers passport photos at a very low cost. AAA may sometimes take photos for free if you book a trip through their travel service.
- Pharmacies and retail stores (CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and Walmart offer passport photo services)
- Professional photography studios
- Passport agencies (many offer photo services, but not all, so be sure to call ahead)
- Authorized passport services (if you need a passport in less than 2 weeks)
- At home (but remember to follow the regulations)
Get a haircut one or two weeks before the photo day. To avoid looking like you just got a fresh cut, it’s best to schedule your haircut a week or two prior to the photo. This gives your hair enough time to settle and look neat in the picture. However, if you're getting a new hairstyle and trust your stylist, you can wait until the last minute for the cut.
Trim your eyebrows if needed. If you plan to shape your eyebrows, it’s best to do so a day in advance to prevent any redness or uneven regrowth. You can also opt for waxing if you want to go the extra mile for this special occasion.
- If the skin around your eyebrows turns red after shaping, try applying a cold tea bag or aloe vera for soothing relief.
