How to Slay Your Passport Photos (Without Breaking the Rules)

Whether you're updating your passport before a dreamy honeymoon or renewing it for your next big adventure—yes, you can look good in that photo. Here’s how to slay your passport pic and stay 100% legal.

Why This Matters

If you're one of the many brides who just changed your name and you're heading on a honeymoon soon (hello, name change checklist 👰🏽‍♀️), your passport photo is one of the first steps in the process. Or maybe it’s just time to renew yours and you’re dreading the standard “deadpan stare” look.

Let’s change that. Because this little photo is going to follow you for ten years. And while there are rules, that doesn’t mean you have to look like you just got off a red-eye flight. 😉

✨ In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know to legally slay your passport photo—from official guidelines and beauty tips, to the mistakes I made (so you don’t have to), plus quick makeup tricks that keep you glowing and confident on camera. Whether you're renewing for your honeymoon or just need a glow-up-friendly update, you're covered.

Passport Photo Requirements (U.S. + Global Guidelines)

First off, these are must-follow rules from the U.S. Department of State and commonly accepted international guidelines:

• 📏 Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)

• 🧍🏽‍♀️ Framing: Full face, facing forward, neutral expression

• 📸 Background: White or off-white, plain and free of shadows

• 👀 Eyes open, visible and not covered by hair or glare

• 🧢 No hats or head coverings (unless for religious/medical reasons)

• 🕶️ No glasses (as of 2016, glasses are not allowed)

• 💄 No heavy photo retouching or filters

• 🌟 Recent photo: Taken within the last 6 months

💡 My tip: Do NOT wear white! You will be turned away. I heard of this happening to a girl on TikTok—passport photos are taken on a white background, so your outfit needs contrast.

My Tips From Experience

Now, if you would rather trust the pros to take your photo (it costs around $15), here are my tips from when I updated my passport, and here’s what I learned firsthand:

• I booked my appointment for late morning/early afternoon on a slightly overcast day, and the lighting was chef’s kiss. Since my location took photos outdoors, that even lighting made a big difference. Try to book when you’ll have good natural light—not harsh midday sun or dim evening lighting.

• I accidentally filled out the wrong form beforehand 🙃 but the whole process still took under 15 minutes!

• If you're renewing an existing passport, make sure to fill out Form DS-82. That’s the one you need for most name-change or renewals. If you purchase a Name Change Kit, you’ll have the right forms.

Pro tip: Renew your passport before it expires and you’ll save a little money.

How to Slay the Shot (While Playing By the Rules)

Even though you can’t flash a big smile or go full glam, you can enhance your natural features and show up confident.

 1. Skin: Keep It Glowy, Not Shiny

• Use a matte primer or oil-absorbing setting powder to reduce flashback or shine.

• A little bronzer = just back from vacation vibes.

 2. Makeup: Soft, Photo-Ready Glow

• Stick to neutral tones, softly defined brows, and a tinted lip gloss or neutral lipstick.

• Skip dramatic lashes or bold eyeliner.

• Undereye concealer makes a huge difference!

🎥 Want to see my go-to photo makeup look in action?
Check out this Instagram Reel for my 15-minute event-ready makeup tutorial—perfect for passport pics, brunch, or a night out.

3. The Expression: Soft + Subtle Confidence

• You don’t have to look dead inside. A soft smile with closed lips is allowed!

• Gently raise your eyebrows and softly tighten your jaw for a natural, lifted look.

👉 And if your RBF is fighting to make an appearance... watch this Instagram Reel for my secret to looking pleasant without over-smiling. 👀

💍 Bride-Specific Tip: Passport Name Change Reminders

If you’re a new bride (congrats!) and you’re changing your last name:

• You’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate (no photocopies). They will mail it back to you (mine took about 10 weeks to be returned).

• Your legal name must match your travel documents, so get your name changed before traveling. 

• Allow 6–12 weeks for passport processing time (longer during peak seasons).
  
  

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