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How to take a 2x2 passport photo with your iPhone
You've got all your tech items for your trip and are ready to set off on an epic vacation. Unfortunately, you quickly come to the realization that your passport is about to expire (or, maybe it already has). Perhaps you don't even have a passport yet to begin with. Whatever the case may be, you'll need a passport photo to get the passport, and these photos come with strict requirements. For example, you can't wear glasses, can't smile or show any teeth, and many other such specifications.
The good news is that while these rules are strict, they're simple to follow if you'd like to take the official photo for yourself. The even better news is that if you have one of the best iPhones with a good camera, you can use that to take your high quality 2x2 passport photos.
How to take a 2x2 passport photo with your iPhone
Setting things up properly
To take a proper 2x2 passport photo, you can't just pick up your phone and start snapping pictures. First, get ready for the photo shoot by removing any eyeglasses, headgear, or jewelry that is distracting or reflective. If you wear makeup, make sure it’s a moderate amount (or none) for a natural look. Also, if you have bangs, make sure they are moved to the side or clipped back so that they don’t cover your forehead. Finally, wear a neutral colored shirt that won’t blend in with the background and that doesn’t cover your neck.
: Storing Your Passport Here Could Bar You From The Country (The Weather Channel)
Next, find a spot inside with neutral lighting and a white or beige background. There should not be anything else visible in the background but the wall or other backdrop, such as a curtain or even a white sheet. Make sure nothing is casting any shadow on your face.
Ideally, wait until the “golden hour” to take the photos, which could be the last hour before sunset or the first hour after sunrise. This will afford the most favorable lighting so that you'll look your best in the photo. If there are objects on the far edges of the photo (if you can’t find a big enough wall, for example), don’t worry as you can crop those out later.
Oh, and if you're wondering, any relatively recent iPhone will do a good job of taking these photos. You don't really need an iPhone 15 Pro, but it certainly helps with the overall quality.
Taking the photo
Now that your face, hair, makeup, and lighting are on point, it's time to set up your iPhone and take the photo. Follow the steps below for the best results.
Please note that the photos provided here are for demonstrative purposes only. We cannot confirm that the photos would be accepted for a passport in the U.S. or another country. They are merely part of a guide to help you set up and take a photo to use.
- Set the iPhone in a vertical orientation on a tripod or on a flat surface with something that will keep it steady (it must be straight, not titled at an angle like you might get with a kickstand). Make sure the phone is about 5 feet away from you.
An iPhone on a tripod in front of a beige wall.© Provided by XDA Developers
- Go into Settings > Camera and scroll down to find Grid under Composition. Enable to toggle to turn on Grid View.
An iPhone home screen with the Settings icon selected.© Provided by XDA DevelopersThe iPhone settings menu with Camera selected.© Provided by XDA DevelopersThe iPhone Camera settings menu with Grid view selected.© Provided by XDA Developers
- Now, launch the Camera app and make sure you're using the rear camera for a sharper photo (no selfies). Don't activate any filters, portrait mode, or zoom in - just use the standard Photo mode.
The iPhone Camera on showing a beige wall.© Provided by XDA DevelopersThe iPhone Camera app open showing a beige wall and standard Photo mode selected.© Provided by XDA Developers
- Stand at the wall and look directly into the camera lens. Snap a test shot. You will likely need help from a second person or use a mirror behind the phone to see what is on the screen.
- Alternatively, you can use the iPhones built-in camera timer, or use a remote shutter. You could also use the camera app on an Apple Watch to take a photo with at least a three-second delay to position yourself accordingly.
- Check the photo and fix any issues with lighting, positioning, expression, or otherwise. If you see any shadows being cast on your face, for example, you might need to either relocate to another spot or wait until a different time of day to take the photo.
- Its a good idea to take multiple photos, so you can review them all and choose the best one.
A woman posing for a photo with red circles showing where shadows are being cast.© Provided by XDA DevelopersA woman posing for a photo on a beige background.© Provided by XDA DevelopersA woman posing for a photo on a beige background.© Provided by XDA DevelopersClose
- Once you are happy with a photo, straighten or crop it to the right specifications. It should be 2x2 and at least 600x600 pixels. You can use software like Adobe Photoshop or the iPhones own editing feature. You may also need to use background removal software like Remove.bg.
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What else to know about using an iPhone to take passport photos
Keep in mind that this guide follows the rules required for a U.S. passport. These rules could vary from country to country, so make sure to check the specific rules for the country in which you reside when taking a passport photo with your iPhone.
The demonstrative photos shown in this guide were taken with an iPhone 14 on iOS 17. Again, we can't confirm that the photos taken here would work for a passport in the U.S. or other countries. But you should have an acceptable photo by the end of the process if you follow all of the rules we've laid out. It’s also important to note that you aren’t looking to get a flattering image. You aren’t going to be posting these photos to Instagram anytime soon. But they will make it possible for you to travel the world. Make sure you do it right, then laugh about your serious pic with friends later while you sip margaritas on the beach in Cabo.
