It is a sad fact, but many people live to regret their passport photo. They end up cringing whenever they see it and take desperate measures to make sure others don’t lay their eyes on it as well. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Before posing for your next passport photo, consider these five steps and avoid the likelihood that you’ll one day look back and hang your head in embarrassment.
Choose a simple hairstyle
Hair really can make or break a passport photo. That is why your safest bet is to choose a simple and timeless style. Also, avoid too many hair products as these can make you look rather greasy.
Watch what you wear
Avoid the urge to wear anything that hasn’t already stood the test of time. This means steering clear of clothes that have just come into fashion. If not, the picture might haunt you like a bad 80s prom dress.
Don’t pose
Make sure you keep a relatively straight face and resist the urge to flash a smile. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t pout and should instead focus on looking directly at the camera.
Prepare for the picture
Believe it or not, you can actually prepare for a passport picture. This includes getting a new haircut or plucking your eyebrows. Men might want to trim their facial hair so it is neat and tidy.
Don’t leave it until the last minute
If you leave your passport photo until the last minute, you’re just increasing the chance that it could go wrong. Instead, take the picture when you have got time to reflect on if it’s right for you. If it’s not, you should still have time to snap another before the deadline.
Look back and smile
It really is possible to look back and smile when you see your passport photo. Just make sure you follow these relatively easy steps and you could be grinning for years to come (or at least until it’s time to renew your passport again).