Q&A for How to Make Your Own Passport Photo (USA)

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Why do passport photos always look so bad?

Crystal Bear
Professional Photographer
Crystal Bear is a Professional Photographer and the Owner of Summer Bear Photography. Crystal specializes in weddings and portraits for women. She holds a BS in Interior Design and Consumer Science from San Francisco State University. Coming from a design background, Crystal brings a sense of style and artistry to her work that brings out her client’s inner confidence, showcases their beauty both inside and out, and puts them at ease. She also specializes in using the correct lighting and branding for women entrepreneurs.

Crystal Bear

Professional Photographer

Expert Answer

It's the angle and the light. You normally take these photos looking directly into the camera, so it can make your face look kind of flat. On top of that, the flash often washes your face out. It's a good thing when it comes to covering up blemishes, but it kind of makes your face look flat and undynamic.

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Question

What is the correct size of a passport photo?

Community Answer

A USA passport photo should be 51 mm x 51 mm (2 inches x 2 inches), in color and printed on quality photo paper.

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Question

What width and height should it be?

Community Answer

The width and length should be a perfect square. The measurements are two inches by two inches.

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Question

My Brazil visa passport picture needs to be 40 x 35 mm. Which number is the width?

Community Answer

35mm is width; 40mm is the height.

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