How to Take a Passport Photo at Home (Step by Step)

Published August 3, 2026 · 4 min read

You don't need a studio to get a compliant passport photo — a phone, a plain wall, and some daylight will get you most of the way there. Here's a simple setup that works.

1. Find a plain wall

Look for a smooth, light-colored wall with no texture, artwork, or shadows. White or very light grey works best for most countries' requirements. Stand about two feet in front of it so your own shadow doesn't fall on the wall behind you.

2. Use natural light

Face a window so the light falls evenly on your face. Avoid direct sunlight (it creates harsh shadows) and avoid standing with a window behind you (it will silhouette your face). Overcast daylight is often the most even light of all.

3. Set up the camera

Have someone else hold the phone, or prop it up at eye level roughly 4–6 feet away, then step back into position. Keep the camera at the same height as your face — not angled up or down — and make sure your head and shoulders are fully in frame with room to spare.

4. Check your expression

Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression or natural smile, both eyes open, mouth closed. Remove glasses unless your destination country explicitly allows them, and take off hats or head coverings unless worn for religious or medical reasons.

5. Crop and size it correctly

Once you have a good source photo, upload it to a tool like our Passport Photo Maker to crop it to your exact country's size using the built-in alignment guides, without applying any background removal or automatic enhancement.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take a passport photo with just my phone?

Yes, a modern phone camera is sharp enough. Focus on lighting and background rather than camera quality.

What's the best light source?

Indirect daylight from a window is usually the most even, flattering light you can get for free.

Do I need a photographer to hold the camera?

It helps to have someone else take the photo so you can stand a consistent distance away and keep your shoulders square, but a phone on a tripod or propped on a stack of books works too.

How do I know if my background is plain enough?

Look for a smooth, unmarked wall with no texture, shadows, or objects behind you. A plain white or light-colored wall works well.