US Passport Photo Requirements

Passport photos are required to be a clear and unobstructed representation of a United States citizen. The photos used are not taken by the government or by customs officials, and therefore every citizen should known the requirements governing the taking of a passport photo.

Face

A passport photo must include a full representation of the front of a person's face. The eyes must be open and all the features included.

Head

The passport photo, in addition to showing the front of the face, should include the area from the top of the hair to the shoulders.

Background

Passport photos must also be taken in front of a clear white background. The background cannot be obstructed by any colors or shadows, including one from the subject of the photo.

Shadows

The photo should be taken in a well-lit place. Shadows cannot cover the face of the person being photographed.

Expression

The face of the person being photographed should be neutral. Smiles and expressions are to be omitted, and the mouth of the person should remain closed.

Contrast

In addition to the lighting of the photograph, the contrast should be normal. With bad lighting, photos can appear miscolored. Most default camera settings will allow for a normal level of contrast.

Photo Size

The United States requires that passport photos be 2 x 2 inches, while most other countries around the world, including European Union countries, require that the photo be 3.5 x 4.5 inches.