It can be tempting to look your best for your passport photo – after all, these photos will likely follow you for years to come, so it makes sense that you’d want to look as stylish as possible! However, it’s important to ensure that your pursuit of style does not get in the way of the photo itself.
Here are some tips to make the most out of your passport pictures while still keeping things easy and practical. Follow these and you will be on your way in no time, passport in hand.
1. If possible, leave the glasses off
The lenses of your glasses can cover your eyes, cast shadows over your face, or catch a glare from the camera lens. To make sure that your face is not obscured when your passport photos are taken, leave the glasses off.
2. Don’t wear distracting prints
You’ll want to wear clothing that you wear on a daily basis – something that looks like “you”. However, try to keep the prints and colors of your clothing as low key as possible, so they do not distract from the most important part of the picture – your face!
3. On the other hand, avoid wearing white
If you’re getting your passport photo professionally done, chances are that you will be standing in front of a white or off-white background. You don’t want to blend into the background, so make sure you wear something colorful (but not TOO colorful, as you can see above!).
4. Avoid hats and other head coverings
Hats, scarves, helmets, earmuffs, and other head coverings should not be worn when taking your passport photo. Not only can they be bulky and distracting, but they can also cast a shadow over your face and make your features difficult to see.
5. Don’t wear jewelry
Jewelry – particularly necklaces and earrings – can catch the glare of a camera lens and ruin your passport photo. As pretty as they may be, leave your accessories at home – or save them to wear on your trip after your passport has been approved!
