Updating your passport: what you need to know

English weather and the winter blues can leave all of us daydreaming about our next holiday abroad. Whether we are seeking warmer climates or looking to enjoy a spot of winter snow, one thing is for certain; travelling outside the UK requires a passport (ideally with at least six months remaining before the expiry date).

While filling out the passport application form can be a lengthy process, getting your new passport photo need not be. Snappy Snaps offer in-store professional passport photos both in digital format and in print. Our highly-trained photography experts know what to look for when taking your photo to ensure it meets all of the required guidelines.


When applying for a new passport you will need to provide two identical printed or digital passport photos (sized 45mm by 35mm). These photos need to be recent and should have been taken within the past month, even if you feel as though your appearance has not changed since your last passport.

Your photos need to be printed to a professional standard and should clearly show your full head and upper shoulders against a plain cream background. Alongside the photo quality rules, there are also several requirements as to how you should look in your passport photo:

• You are required to look forwards, facing the camera head-on. 
• Your facial expression should be neutral, so resist any temptation to smile. 
• Glasses should be removed, and your eyes should be open and visible.
• Do not allow your face or eyes to be covered by your hair or anything else.
• Do not have anything covering your head (unless for religious or medical reasons).
• Do not have any shadows on your face.

With the strict government guidelines that have been outlined for passport photos, getting a professional to help out should be considered to guarantee your application will not be rejected. Visiting your local Snappy Snaps is a great way to ensure you get it right first time.