How to Look Good in a Passport Photo?
A passport photo may be one of the most long-lasting pictures you ever take. It will represent you for many years, appear on visas, and be checked by border officials around the world. While passport photos must follow strict government rules, there is still plenty you can do to look neat, confident, and well-presented.
This guide shows how to look your best while staying fully compliant with official requirements.
Understand the Basic Rules First
Before planning your look, remember the universal requirements used by most countries:
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Neutral facial expression
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Both eyes open and clearly visible
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No heavy shadows on the face
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Plain light-colored background
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No hats, sunglasses, or large accessories
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Face fully visible from forehead to chin
These principles are almost universal, but always check your country’s specific rules.
Grooming Makes the Biggest Difference
Small grooming details can dramatically improve how your photo look.
Hair
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Get a trim a few days before, not the same day.
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Keep hair away from your eyes and eyebrows.
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Avoid styles that create heavy shadows on your face.
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If you have long hair, tuck it neatly behind your shoulders.
Facial Hair
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Either go clean-shaven or fully groom your beard.
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Avoid uneven stubble.
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Shape the neckline and cheek lines neatly.
Skin
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Exfoliate lightly a day before.
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Apply moisturizer so your skin looks smooth, not flaky or shiny.
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Get a full night’s sleep to reduce under-eye shadows.
Choose Clothing That Photographs Well
Your clothing matters more than you think.
Best choices:
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Solid colors
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Medium to dark tones (navy, burgundy, charcoal, forest green)
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Simple collars or crew necklines
Avoid:
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White (it blends into the background)
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Busy patterns or stripes
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Shiny fabrics
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Large logos
A structured top or collared shirt can subtly sharpen your posture and make you look more professional.
Makeup: Keep It Natural
Makeup is allowed, but it should be light and natural.
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Use matte foundation to prevent shine.
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Apply concealer under eyes if needed.
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Lightly define eyebrows.
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Use neutral lipstick or lip balm.
Avoid heavy contouring, false lashes, glitter, or bold colors. Your goal is to look like yourself on your best day.
Glasses and Accessories
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Remove glasses unless they are medically required.
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Avoid earrings that are large, dangling, or reflective.
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Remove necklaces, scarves, and hair accessories that cover your face.
Simple, minimal accessories are safest.
Master the Neutral Expression
You usually cannot smile with teeth, but you do not have to look stiff.
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Relax your jaw.
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Gently lift the corners of your mouth.
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Slightly raise your eyebrows to open your eyes.
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Think “calm and confident” rather than “serious.”
Practice in front of a mirror so your face looks natural, not tense.
Posture and Head Position
Good posture makes your face look better:
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Sit or stand straight.
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Keep your shoulders relaxed and level.
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Tilt your chin slightly down (not up).
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Keep your face centered and square to the camera.
This avoids a “mugshot” look and keeps your jawline defined.
Time It Right
Schedule your photo when:
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You are well-rested.
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You are not rushed.
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You feel physically comfortable.
Stress shows on your face more than you might expect.
Take Plenty of Photos for the Perfect Pick
Taking multiple photos allows you to explore different angles and find the most flattering one. Each shot gives you a chance to adjust your pose, lighting, and expression. Reviewing several photos helps you notice what works best for your face and posture. With more options available, you are more likely to end up with a photo you truly like.
Double-check your lighting, background, clothing, and appearance using our
Can You Wear Glasses in Passport Photos? 2026 Rules, Exceptions & Rejections,
Can You Wear Makeup in a Passport Photo?
Can You Smile in a Passport Photo?
What to Wear for a US Passport Photo? (2026 Guide: Do’s & Don’ts)
to avoid rejection.
Click here for the complete method to take a passport photo at home How to Take a Passport Photo at Home: A Simple and Reliable Method.