Tag: Best Online Passport Photos

3 major health benefits of traveling

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

There are even more reasons to travel than just trying new foods, seeing new things, and becoming a more culturally seasoned person. In addition to the benefits of travel in terms of personal enrichment, traveling has also been demonstrated to pose real health benefits. By making a point to get out there and build your frequent flyer miles up higher, you’re doing yourself a service that will make your primary healthcare provider proud. The following are three of the most significant health benefits of making sure to satisfy your wanderlust on a regular basis.

Increased calorie burn rate

Simply by getting out there and moving from destination to destination on your travels, you’ll naturally be burning more calories from the increased physical activity demanded by walking from place to place. You may not be going to the gym every other day, but by consistently staying on your feet, your overall net calorie burn will actually be greater than it would be with only designated hours for periodic exercise in an otherwise sedentary lifestyle.

You’ll fortify your immune system

By being exposed to new environments, foods and pathogens, your body naturally adapts by strengthening its immune system to accommodate a more diverse array of energy sources and mild ailments. Though you might experience a slight bug upon exposure to unfamiliar germs in unfamiliar countries, this can act as an organic “vaccination” process that helps your body develop new defenses against it.

Decreased stress and susceptibility to depression

Being exposed to new places and experiences will provide a wonderful boost to your mood by dynamically stimulating your reward center with new, pleasant sensations that it hasn’t been desensitized to. The monotony of staying in the same place can elevate stress levels and can leave you feeling anxious and unfulfilled. Taking a trip to a new and exciting place helps you become more deeply immersed in the moment, creating a sense of fulfillment that can linger even weeks after returning home.

Get your passport photo approved with Paspic

In order to enjoy all of the benefits that frequent travel has to offer, you need to make sure that your passport photo checks out before go. If you want a passport picture that perfectly does you justice, contact us at Paspic today so that we can get you on the fast track to photo approval.

Photo: Travel by Moyan_Brenn licensed under Creative commons 2

What you shouldn’t take on your next trip

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Of course, you’ve already thought about everything you need to take for that next vacation. Sun lotion, always. A swimsuit, shorts, a nice and corny floral print shirt. It’s always easy to think in terms of what you need; not so easy to think in terms of what you don’t (especially if the trip is a long one). Here is an absolute must on any vacation: reduce clutter to avoid the very real possibility of losing something important. So get rid of the technology you cradle like a teddy bear at night, the series of novellas, the extra wardrobe and read this list of must-nots.

1. Books

If you’re checking in a bag, books will not only weigh down on you but weigh down on your travel budget. If your bag is over 50 pounds, you could end up paying an extra 25 dollars for every 25 pounds over. Seriously, how many novellas are you going to get through when you’re sorting out directions, relaxing with other people, and experiencing new things every day? If you’re going to bring a book, bring the shortest one to give you the satisfaction of finishing it, or simply buy a Kindle so you can read on the plane.

2. More clothes than you need

The golden clothes ratio? One outfit for every three days you spend there. There will be at least one affordable clothing store with copious amounts of nice clothing, and you’ll need space in your bag to bring your purchases with you. If you’re concerned about hygiene and you’re travelling with more than just yourself, encourage them to do the same and do laundry together at a local spot. A laundry mat can be a great cultural site for learning, especially when some even have coffee shops, bars, or arcades waiting for you inside.

3. Laptops, cameras, and jewelry

It’s not uncommon for routine maintenance people in hotels to do an inside job and take valuables. If you need to go on a computer, look up computer rental shops, internet centers, and local libraries. Need a camera? Use your phone or invest in a nice digital one that you can always have on hand along with your keys, wallet, and passport (because you don’t want to end up taking another one of those passport photos, either!).

In short, your trip should be about making space for the new: new memories, friends, and experiences. Why do you want to stuff it all up with your personalized clutter?

Vacationing on a budget: tips to save money on your trip

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Traveling the world is a unique way to gain knowledge and enrich your life through experiences. While many dream of traveling to their favorite destinations they are often discouraged when considering the cost of traveling, lodging and vacation excursions. These beneficial tips will help you plan your next budget-friendly vacation.

Plan your vacation properly

Planning your vacation will have a positive impact on your bottom line. Be sure to secure your passports and ensure that your passport photo has been approved. If you need to do this in a hurry, use a service like Paspic to make sure your passport photos are suitable for use and avoid any delays. If you can, be sure to schedule your next trip in advance. What places will you visit? Will you stay at a resort? Does your destination experience extreme seasonal changes? Questions such as these will help determine the cheapest time to go and therefore your travel budget.

Travel discounts

While last-minute vacation deals pop up on a regular basis, these discounts are not guaranteed for your date of travel. Make sure you plan your travel far in advance. The more flexible you can be with your travel dates, the more money you can save. Purchase your plane tickets in advance. Make sure that you factor in the cost of carry-on luggage, checked luggage and preferred seating. Don’t wait until you reach the airport to check-in, these fees could increase at the airport.

Use your connections

Social media can be your best friend when it comes to traveling on a budget. Follow major airlines on social media to stay on top of specials and available discounts. Visit the tourist websites of your future travel destinations for discounts and free vouchers to explore tourist attractions and historical sites.

Check the forecast before you go

Weather and temperature changes can not only scupper your travel plans, but they can put a significant dent in your travel budget. Being proactive can save you money in this area. Whether traveling to far-off destinations or taking a quick road trip, make sure you are properly monitoring the weather so you can pack accordingly and avoid unnecessary outlays on new items of clothing and accessories. This will help you determine if you should bring a raincoat, an extra jacket or your snow boots with you. This prevents the need for purchasing these items when you arrive at your destination.

Style tips for your passport photo

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

When Mary went to her local post office, she was still dressed in her work clothes: an itchy navy polo with blaring white stripes, a blaring logo on the chest, and hair un-styled in an “It’s Monday” fashion. She figured when she told the worker she needed to get a passport to go to Mexico, he would hand her a couple of papers to take home with her, so that when she returned the next day, she could return straight from the Glamazon with hair freshly blow-dried, a nice blouse, and full make-up. Hey, passports are expensive, and you want your passport picture to be one you like! To her horror, the worker instead nonchalantly waved her in front of an enormous black camera, didn’t wait for her to blink first, and snapped the picture. Yikes.

Our first piece of advice for taking a good passport photo? Be prepared and feel comfortable. Whether you use a post office or a photo booth to get your picture taken, they’ll both be using a strong flash to avoid shadows, so don’t wear a bright color. That goes for makeup and clothing, although likely only your shoulders will appear in the shot. Wear something slightly muted, but a color that complements your skin tone.

If you tend to have oily skin or sweat a lot (and yes, this is for you too, guys!), think about powdering your face just ever so slightly in nude tones. You can’t wear heavy makeup, change the color of your skin or cover up defining features, but you can take some of the sheen off. Just make sure that you apply evenly over your face and neck (you don’t want them to mismatch!). Remember, you also can’t smile or show any emotion, but you can at least have good skin!

Bring a brush or comb. When you’re in line, feel free to preen away because the postal worker won’t want to wait and watch you as you untangle knots in your hair. As you wait, fix your hair the way you want to. Be wary of ponytails and up-dos: you need to look like you, so if your hair is a little non-compliant that day, run some serum through it – hair down is the best idea. You also can’t wear hats, sunglasses or other accessories, unless for religious reasons.

And last but not least, don’t blink – you need your eyes wide open! Want to ensure your passport photos don’t get rejected? Don’t make these top passport photo mistakes. Or use Paspic to check your photos are valid for use before you send them off.

Photo: 184 by Why Not Linh Vu licensed under Creative commons 2

Travel safety tips for solo travelers

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Have you got the travel bug for trekking off into the world on your own? There’s nothing quite so exhilarating as packing your bags and flying solo, going wherever the wind takes you. However, be warned. There are special safety precautions that even seasoned travelers should take when traveling alone.

Protect your passport

When you got your passport photo taken, it’s not likely you were picturing having your passport stolen while abroad. However, every day, travelers in foreign countries get their passports stolen, leaving them stranded far away from home.

To protect yourself, always keep your passport safe. Consider investing in a passport case with RFID blocking, which will keep savvy criminals from electronically pickpocketing your passport information. Not only that, but your passport will feel a little heavier in your pocket, giving you extra warning if someone tries to lift it.

Maintain sobriety

Part of traveling is enjoying the delectable food and drinks available in far flung places. But if you overindulge, you leave yourself particularly susceptible to cunning criminals who may try to take advantage of your lessened awareness after drinking more than your fair share. By all means, sample the goodness that foreign places have to offer, but as a solo traveler, it’s even more important to maintain your sobriety so you can get back to your hotel safely.

One tip to try is to have a glass of water in between each beer or cocktail. This will reduce the amount of liquid that you’re able to comfortably consume.

Keep in contact with friends and family

It’s fun to take off without telling anyone where you’re going. But if you’re traveling alone, this isn’t a safe option. Confide in at least one person so that if you run into trouble, you’ll have someone who can quickly get to you or lend you a helping hand. Add a layer of protection by giving that person a photocopy of your passport photo. If need be, this will help authorities locate you in a foreign country.

These travel safety tips for solo travelers will help to make your journeys even more enjoyable. You’ll be able to relax, knowing your passport is always safe and sound.

Photo: Travel by Moyan_Brenn licensed under Creative commons 2

Where can I get baby passport photos taken?

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

When you are traveling domestically or abroad with a baby or child, the passport photos are often the only government issued photographic identification parents have for their children. Baby passport photos have a reputation for being a challenge to parents, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Yes, it is true that all passport photos must adhere to the requirements set forth by the United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs. With the rare exception for newborns, a baby passport photo and child passport photo must meet the same requirements as an adult passport picture. Getting baby passport photos taken can be a stress-free experience.

Where can I get baby passport photos taken?

Our advice: take the baby passport photo yourself. Babies tend to be fussy with strangers. Even the Duchess of Cambridge chose to have a family member take the first released photograph of Prince George. Take a tip from the Duchess and treat your baby like a royal: take the baby passport photo yourself. With Paspic.com, you have the freedom to submit several baby passport pictures to ensure the passport photo meets the Passport Agency’s requirements.

Why take baby passport photos yourself?

There are two main advantages to taking the baby passport picture yourself: it’s convenient and relatively stress-free. You have the convenience to take the passport photos on the baby’s schedule. This eliminates the stress and expense of keeping an appointment with a professional photographer. Parents can easily meet the requirements for a baby passport. It doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

What are the regulations for a baby passport photo?

The United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs outlines the requirements for passport photos. The general requirements include: front facing, neutral expression, eyes open, white background, full face visible. The baby passport photo must show a clear, shadow-free image of the baby in a front facing position with the full face visible, and without its head tilted or rotated to the side. No shadows, no motion blur, and no exaggerated expressions are permitted. The background of the baby passport photo cannot have a parent or car seat holding the baby up. The baby cannot have its hands near the face (or in the photograph.) The baby cannot have a foreign object, such as a blanket, toy, or pacifier, in the photo.

The Passport Agency only makes one exception for passport photos: newborns can be photographed without fully opened eyes. Other than that one exception, a baby passport photo and child passport photo must meet the Department of State’s passport photo guidelines. If your baby is older than 28 days, don’t gamble with the passport picture regulations. Take your baby passport photo yourself and trust Paspic.com to find an approved passport picture.

Keep the baby passport photograph a experience stress-free by taking the baby passport photo yourself.

Top 5 reasons passport photos are rejected

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Do you know the primary reason why passport applications get held up? It’s because of unacceptable passport photos. In 2015 alone, the U.S. State Department received over 200,000 unacceptable passport photos. Make sure your passport application is processed smoothly and your trip goes ahead as planned by submitting an acceptable passport picture. Just be sure to avoid the top reasons passport photos are rejected:

Lighting

Bad lighting can instantly ruin a photo. Whether the image is too bright, too dark, or affected by shadows, a photo with unacceptable lighting will be unacceptable to the State Department. Remember, the goal is to reflect your true skin tone and facial features without any shadows.

Recency

You may have taken the perfect headshot one year ago, but it won’t be eligible for your passport application now. Recency matters, as physical features can change over time. Your passport photo needs to have been taken within six months of submission.

Image size

Your passport photo must measure 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51mm) in size. Any photos submitted that are too big or too small will not be accepted and will delay your passport application process.

Distance

The distance between you and the camera is an important factor for your passport picture. A selfie simply won’t cut it. Passport photos require the size of your head to be between 1 and 1-3/8 inches (25 – 35mm) within a 2 X 2 inch frame. use the State Department’s smart photo tool to crop your photo to meet distance guidelines.

Image and paper quality

Blurry, grainy, and pixilated photos will not be accepted. The photo must be clear in order to properly identify you. Make sure you use a high-quality camera and size the image appropriately. Also, you cannot print your passport photo on regular printer paper. You must use matte or glossy photo-quality paper.

If you are able to avoid the common reasons passport photos are rejected, and all of your other application materials are in line, your passport application should be processed quickly and smoothly. Soon you should have no problem obtaining a picture perfect passport.

Passport safety tips when traveling

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Most people only remember to check their passport when they have an upcoming trip. If it is close to the expiry date, you ought to take current passport pictures and make an application for renewal. While your passport is safe at home, what steps should you take to secure your passport when traveling?

Passport safety tips when traveling

Make some copies

Although you will use the original passport, there is no harm in making copies and carrying one or two with you. In the unfortunate event that you lose your passport in transit, you can use the copy to prove that you have a valid passport. The copy may not have an original passport photo, but it is enough to provide identification before you can consult the nearest US embassy.

Keep it with you or locked up

Many travelers assume that, since they are staying in an expensive hotel, there are minimal chances of losing their valuables. You should not make such an assumption. It is better to have the passport on you or securely locked when you have to leave your hotel room.

Protect it

Taking good care of your passport does not just entail keeping it safe. You ought to take great care to ensure that you protect it from the elements. The best way of protecting your passport is by keeping it in a weather-proof pocket to prevent water damage. Moisture is likely to destroy your passport photo, making it harder to identify you.

Learn about your rights

While visiting a foreign country, you need to know where you are required to provide your passport and where you do not have to present it. If you know your rights, you will avoid falling for the tricks of scammers that want your details to rob you. Apart from the airport and when booking into the hotel, few other places will insist on the production of your passport.

If you are unfortunate enough to lose your passport in a foreign country, the first step is to report the loss at the local police station. You should then ask for directions to the nearest embassy or consulate to seek further assistance.

Photo: My Passport by bryansblog licensed under Creative commons 2

3 reasons to use an online passport photo service

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

An online passport photo service can save you time, money, and frustration on your passport photos, offering a variety of benefits you’d struggle to replicate with a photo booth or other passport solutions. You see particular benefit when dealing with difficult pictures, such as photos taking advantage of certain allowances for headgear, or photos for baby and child passports, where the smallest flaw can render your pictures useless. Here are just three of the pros of online passport photos.

1. Take difficult pictures on your own schedule

Getting an adequate photo of a baby or toddler can be an extremely finicky, difficult task with even the best-behaved child. So can photos when you need to account for certain special rules and requirements unique to your situation. Obtaining the perfect photo in the short period of time you have access to a photo booth requires more than a little luck, which is one reason taking your own photos, then leveraging a photo service online, makes a lot of sense.

2. Maximize your chances of receiving your passport in a timely manner

There are a lot of little details which can render your passport photos unacceptable. When you submit these photos, fully expecting them to be accepted, it can cause unreasonable delays and ruin your ability to travel. By working with a passport service which adjusts and screens photos to achieve high acceptance rates, you’ll find it much easier to plan around receiving your passport when you need it most.

3. Avoid hunting for a photo booth.

Passport-friendly photo booths aren’t always easy to find, depending on where you live. Sometimes the best argument for not using one is that there aren’t any present to use in the first place. It doesn’t make much sense to take a lengthy trip to a photo booth, when you can take perfectly serviceable photos from your home.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to avoid the booth and stick with an online service. If you want to save on time, money, and headaches, strongly consider using a passport service online to obtain passport photos that you and your nation’s compliance rules will like.

Photo: Passport by seantoyer licensed under Creative commons 2

Beyond the passport: a travelers checklist

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Accommodations, check. Transportation, check. Passport, check. Some travelers think that those three ingredients are all the preparation one needs before embarking on a trip. Savvy travelers know the traveler’s checklist includes more boxes to tick off to ensure smooth travels. Amateur travelers and professionals can always benefit from a handy reference guide to international travel, so bookmark our smart traveler’s checklist for quick and easy access.

Learn about your destination

Visit the state department’s website to research your destination. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs and be sure to review the country’s policy on passports. Although the United States will allow you to re-enter the country until the date your passport expires, some countries require your passport to allot an exit date at least six months prior to the expiration date on your passport.

Obtain required documents

In addition to a passport, some countries might require a visa. Again, you can refer to the state department’s website to verify your entry documents. If you are on medication, request a letter from your physician outlining the medications that you are bringing. Be aware: some countries have very strict policies on entering the country with drugs, even over-the-counter medications. Review your destination’s drug policy. Also, if you are traveling with minor children, your destination might require custody documents or written consent from the absent parent. The destination’s embassy can advise you on the particulars.

Plan for health emergencies

In the event of a medical emergency, will your insurance provide for your treatments? After checking with your insurance provider, consider adding a supplemental insurance policy for your travels. Depending on your location, you might required to be vaccinated and proof of updated shots. Finally, review the websites of the US Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization for any health precautions.

Financial security

Remember to communicate with your bank and credit card companies about your planned trip to prevent awkward and unnecessary declined transactions. Review their foreign exchange fee, and also check the currency exchange rates.

Final tips

Make several photocopies of your travel documents, including your itinerary, flight ticket, and passport. Give a copy to a trusted friend or family member, along with the contact information for your accommodations. Before you depart, record the contact details of the US Embassy or US Consulate at your destination. Finally, enroll in the US State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for travel and security updates.