At Home Passport Photo — Price, Cheap Options, Requirements & Printing

Taking your passport photo at home can save you time and money — and with the right tools, it’s easy to create a picture that meets official requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide for 2025.

Step 1: Set Up Your Background

• Use a plain white or off-white wall
• Make sure there are no shadows or objects behind you
• If needed, hang a white sheet for a uniform background

Step 2: Get the Right Lighting

• Stand facing a window for natural light
• Avoid harsh overhead lighting that causes shadows
• Use lamps or soft lighting to balance shadows on both sides of your face

Step 3: Position Yourself Correctly

• Stand about 3–4 feet from the wall
• Have the camera at eye level
• Look straight ahead with a neutral expression and open eyes
• Keep both shoulders visible and head centered

Step 4: Take the Photo

• Use the rear camera on your phone for higher quality
• Have someone else take the picture (avoid selfies)
• Take multiple shots to choose the best one

Step 5: Edit for Compliance

Even a good photo needs to be cropped and checked for passport requirements. Use an online passport photo generator to:

• Crop to exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
• Ensure head size and eye position match official guidelines
• Adjust background brightness for a clean white look
• Create a printable 4×6 layout (4 inches by 6 inches) with multiple copies

Step 6: Print Your Photo

Print your 4×6 layout (4 inches by 6 inches) at any photo store (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) for under $0.50, or use a home printer with photo paper. Cut out the 2×2 photos with scissors.

Why Take Your Passport Photo at Home?

• How to Cut Your Cost by 60–80% compared to in-store services
• Unlimited retakes until you’re satisfied
• No need to travel or make an appointment
• Keep a digital copy for future use

Tip: Store your compliant digital file so you can reprint it anytime without retaking the photo.

Get a Compliant Passport Photo Now

Upload your at-home photo, preview it with official measurements, and download a perfect 4×6 layout (4 inches by 6 inches) ready for printing at any store or home printer.