I’m no stranger to getting my passport picture taken – especially as of late.  Between having to get an expedited passport last December, get my OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) booklet replaced (multiple times, ouch) and apply for my Russian visa, I’ve been a regular fixture at my local CVS’ photography counter.  And my many visits have taught me something I’ve been struggling with since I was 3 months old -taking a great passport picture.
– last year’s picture on the left, this year’s picture on the right –
Here are my tips:
Get your picture taken after a hair appointment. Â Freshly styled locks go a long way in getting a great photograph.
Go when the photographer isn’t busy – and don’t be afraid to get multiple pictures. Â Seeing as you have to live with your passport for 10 years, it’s worth the extra five minutes to take a better picture.
Keep your makeup natural. Â Who gets off the plane with a bold red lip and a smoky eye (and isn’t J.Lo)?
Bring a piece of aluminum foil and place it on your lap, or hold it at hip-level when your picture is being taken. Â The foil acts as a reflector and helps improve the fluorescent light’s unforgiving effects on the picture.
RE-TOUCH. Â I just discovered that my beloved CVS will do this – if you ask. Â So ask.
Wear a neutral, dark color – black, brown, or gray. Â White and pale colors blend into the background, causing you to suffer from floating head syndrome.
SMIZE. Â You are supposed to have a neutral, non-smiling expression (according t0 all the applications I’ve read recently). Â But a scowl is not exactly pretty – so smize. Â Relax your face and think about something funny (my favorite memory is my nephew’s Hindu Homies rap). Â And touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth – it firms the skin under your chin, helping alleviate multiple-chin-syndrome.
What tips/tricks do you have for taking a great passport picture? Â Share in the comments below.
