Passport Photo Guidelines: Get Your Perfect Shot Quickly

Need a passport photo that passes every check? You don’t have to run to a studio if you follow a few simple rules. In this guide we break down the exact size, background, and pose requirements, then share quick tips to fix common issues right on your phone.

Know the Exact Size and Background Rules

First thing – the dimensions. Most Indian passports need a 2" x 2" (51mm x 51mm) photo with a clear, white background. The face must fill about 70-80% of the frame, so the top of the head is about 1.4" from the top edge. Keep the shoulders straight and the eyes level with the camera.

Lighting matters. Use natural light or a soft lamp to avoid shadows on the face or background. Position the light source in front of you, not above, so there are no dark spots on the cheekbones.

Dress simply. A solid-coloured shirt works best; avoid white shirts because they blend into the background. No uniforms, hats, or sunglasses. Glasses are allowed only if there’s no glare – otherwise, take them off.

Tips for a Flawless Photo Any Time

Ask a friend or use a tripod. Set the camera at eye level and keep a neutral expression – no smile, no frown. Look straight into the lens and keep your mouth closed.

If you’re using a phone, use the rear camera for better quality. Turn off any beauty filters; they can distort facial features and cause rejection.

After snapping the shot, crop it to the exact size using a free app like “Passport Photo Maker” or an online tool. Double‑check the head height measurement – most apps show a ruler overlay.

Before you print or upload, zoom in 100% on a computer screen. Make sure the eyes are clear, the background is uniformly white, and there’s no red-eye.

Printing tip: Use matte photo paper and a high‑resolution printer. Set the print quality to “photo” and avoid scaling – the image should be exactly 2" x 2".

Got a rejection? Usually it’s because of shadows, wrong size, or a non‑neutral expression. Re‑shoot using the same lighting but adjust the angle a little, then re‑crop.

That’s it – follow these steps, and you’ll have a passport photo that passes every test without a pricey studio visit.