Where can I take a passport photo?

It is a common question before applying for an official document: “Where can I take a passport photo?” Most of you opt for the quickest and inexpensive option.

Last update:7/16/2024

Where can I take a passport photo?

You can take a UK passport photo in several places throughout the UK. Here are some common options:

1. Online Services

If you prefer to take your photo at home, our app is a popular and convenient option for taking a conform UK passport photo. We use AI and expert to check your passport photo in real time for an inexpensive price.

2. Photo Booths

Photo booths are widely available in various locations, including:

  • Supermarkets: Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s often have photo booths.
  • Shopping Centres: Most large shopping centres have photo booths.
  • Train and Bus Stations: Many major stations have photo booths for passport photos.
  • Pharmacies: Boots and some Lloyds branches may have photo booths or offer photo services.

3. Photography Stores

Professional photography stores or studios can take your passport photo:

  • Snappy Snaps
  • Max Spielmann
  • Jessops

These stores often have trained staff to ensure the photos meet the specific requirements for UK passports.

4. Post Office

Many Post Office branches offer a passport photo service, where staff can take your photo and help you apply for or renew your passport:

  • Post Office Photo Booths: Located in select branches.
  • Check and Send Service: Some branches offer a service where they check your photo against passport requirements.

5. Pharmacies and Convenience Stores

Stores like Boots, Superdrug, and some local pharmacies often offer passport photo services, usually through a trained staff member or a self-service booth.

6. Professional Photography Studios

For the highest quality photos, you may choose a professional photography studio, where photographers have experience with passport photo requirements.

How to take a passport photo?

Taking an official photo requires certain responsibility because it has to be approved by the authorities. It must conform with legal requirements, such as those regarding:

  • size
  • clothing
  • quality

and many others. They are described in a more detailed way on this page.

If you are thinking of applying for an official document such as a passport, you have to consider taking an image, because you will be asked for an up-to-date one. In order to obtain it, you can go to some places described below.


What are the pros and cons of each option?

First, let’s consider a photographer. You can be sure about the quality of a photo, but its price is typically high. Then, in some cases, you will have to wait for some time before receiving them. In the case of a photo booth you can use it almost anytime you want, but not each of them is entitled to take such a photo. Finally, you can take it at home.

If you want to follow this path, you may save:

  • the time needed to get to a studio
  • money
  • effort.

Using the Smartphone iD app you may be sure about the quality of the photo, its low price, and a valid ID Photo Code that you can use one HM Passport office website for passport application online. After our two step validation, you will receive a valid photo in your email and you can also order them printed to your home.

pros and cons

Sources

https://www.gov.uk/photos-for-passports

https://www.maxphoto.co.uk/id-photos/passport-photos/passport-photo-booth

https://www.tescophoto.com/id-photos/passport-photos/passport-photo-booth

Learn more