When you apply for a passport renewal, you’ll need to send in new, updated photos of yourself. If you don’t want your application to be delayed, you’ll also need to make sure that the passport photos you send meet the government’s requirements. The best way to do this is by having your photos taken by someone who knows what they are doing. Here are some of the recommended places you can go to get passport photos taken:
Drug Stores
Most drug stores have photography departments that will take passport photos on request.
Wal-mart
You really can get almost anything at Wal-mart, including passport photos. Just head on down to the photography department and one of the associates will assist you.
Post Offices/Passport Acceptance Facilities
Some post offices and other facilities that accept passport applications also offer passport photos. However, not every location that accepts passport applications offers photos, so check with the facility before you arrive ready for your close-up. Also, depending on the facility you may need to call ahead and make an appointment to have your picture taken.
Professional Photographers
If you’re really concerned about how your passport photo comes out and you don’t mind spending a little bit of extra money on it, a professional photographer is another option. If you’re extremely busy, some photographers will even come to your office to take the photos. Make sure you get someone who has experience offering this service and is familiar with the Department of State’s requirements.
No matter where you get your passport photo taken, you should also be willing to exercise some quality control on your own. Make sure that the image you send is in focus, high quality and neither too light nor too dark. You must be facing forward, and there must not be any shadows on your face. If your pictures don’t seem to meet these criteria, have them retaken before you send them in with your passport renewal application.
Alison Kroulek is a freelance writer and blogger with a focus on the travel industry.
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