Passport Photo Guide: How to Snap, Size, and Save Money
Need a passport photo fast and cheap? You don’t have to book a studio or waste time waiting in line. With a smartphone, a plain wall, and a few simple tricks, you can create a government‑approved photo in minutes.
Step‑by‑Step DIY Photo
First, find a neutral background – white or light gray works best. Stand about a meter away, keep your shoulders straight, and look straight at the camera. Make sure there are no shadows on your face; use natural light or a single lamp placed in front of you.
Set your phone to its highest resolution and disable any filters. Use the rear camera for better quality and hold it at eye level. Take a few shots, then pick the one where your expression is neutral, eyes open, and mouth closed.
Now comes the sizing. Most Indian passports require a 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) photo with the head occupying 70‑80 % of the frame. Use a free online tool or a simple photo‑editing app to crop the image to those dimensions. Keep the background pure white – many apps have a “background remover” that can help if your wall isn’t perfectly white.
Where to Print for the Lowest Price
Once your file is ready, you have three cheap options:
- Local kiosks: Small print shops in malls often charge ₹30‑₹50 per photo. Bring your file on a USB drive or email it to them.
- Online services: Websites like Printo or ZoomIn let you upload and get photos delivered for under ₹100 for a set of four.
- DIY at home: If you have a colour printer, buy a pack of photo‑paper (₹250‑₹300) and print the required size yourself. Just double‑check the dimensions before printing.
Remember to verify the printed photo against the official guidelines – the size, background colour, and head height must match exactly. A quick check with a ruler can save you a rejected application.
If you’re unsure whether your phone‑shot meets the specs, our post “Can You Use a Phone Photo for a Passport in 2025?” walks you through country‑specific rules and common pitfalls.
Need a budget‑friendly place in Delhi or Mumbai? Our “Cheapest Passport Photos” article lists the top spots with current prices, so you can compare and pick the best deal near you.
Finally, keep a digital copy of your passport photo on your phone. It’s handy for future renewals, visa applications, or any other ID that needs a recent picture.
With the right lighting, correct sizing, and a little research on printing costs, you’ll have a passport‑ready photo without breaking the bank. Try it today and skip the long queue at the studio!
