You don’t need a booth or a shop. With your phone, a plain light wall and a free tool, you can make a compliant 35×45 mm UK passport photo and print it at home in a few minutes.
Note: the digital photo you upload with an online passport application follows the same look, but the pixel size differs. Always confirm the current rules on GOV.UK before you submit — this guide is for general help only.
Step by step: take the photo
Pick a plain, light wall — pale grey or cream works best (pure white can look washed out to the checker). Stand about half a metre away so you don’t cast a shadow on it.
Use soft daylight — face a window. Even light on the face avoids shadows under the eyes and nose.
Have someone photograph you from about 1.2 m at eye level, phone held upright. Look straight at the lens.
Neutral expression — mouth closed, no smiling, both eyes open and clearly visible.
Take several and keep the sharpest, most evenly lit one.
💡 Applying online? Many UK applications let you upload a digital photo instead of printing. Take the same well-lit, plain-background shot — good lighting and a clean background matter far more than an expensive camera.
Common reasons UK passport photos get rejected
Shadows on the face or behind the head — the most common cause. Fix with even, front-on daylight.
Background too busy or too white — use a plain, light grey/cream wall.
Head too big or too small in the frame — keep chin-to-crown within the size guidance.
Glare on glasses or eyes hidden — clearest to remove glasses.
Smiling or hair over the eyes — keep a neutral face and eyes visible.
FAQ
Can I take a UK passport photo with my phone? Yes. Any modern phone has enough resolution. Lighting and a plain background matter most.
White or grey background for a UK passport? A plain light grey or cream is recommended. Avoid strong white, patterns and shadows.
Do I need to edit the background? No. Shoot against a clean, plain wall to begin with — the tool crops to size and does not alter your background.
How many copies should I print? One is needed for a printed application, but the 4×6 sheet gives you several for visas and future use at the cost of a single print.