How to take a passport size photo at home

Start with the official rule

Before you take the photo, open the current instructions for the passport, visa, or form you are applying for. Size, background, glasses, head covering, and expression rules can change by country and form.

Set up the shot

• Stand in even light, facing a window or soft indoor light.
• Use a plain light background if possible.
• Keep your face fully visible and look straight at the camera.
• Hold the camera at eye level or ask someone to take the photo.
• Leave space around your head and shoulders so the crop can be adjusted.

Avoid common problems

Do not use a beauty filter, heavy shadow, tilted face, closed eyes, or a photo from far away. A document photo should look like you on a normal day, not like a studio portrait.

Before you submit

Export the size requested by the authority and compare it against the official example. No online tool can guarantee acceptance; the reviewing authority makes the final decision.