Passport Photo Booth: How To Use? (The UK)

Today, many tasks can be performed more efficiently with the help of automated services and machines. Obtaining a passport photo is no exception, and the advent of passport photo booths provides a convenient way to do this.

Below, we will show you how to find a passport photo booth in the UK, how to use it to take a compliant passport photo, and how to significantly simplify the passport photo-taking process with the mobile passport photo booth app — 7ID.

Finding a Passport Photo Booth
- Locations and Availability
- Cost and Payment Options
Preparing for Your Passport Photo
Using the Passport Photo Booth
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
Reviewing and Editing Your Photo
- Checking for Errors
- Retaking the Photo (if necessary)
An affordable alternative: 7ID app — your mobile passport photo booth!

Finding a Passport Photo Booth

Passport photo booths are an easily accessible resource, strategically placed in various locations to facilitate your photo needs. Although they provide a self-service solution, their use may be unfamiliar to many. Here's how to find one and what it costs.

Locations and Availability

Passport photo booths are conveniently located in high-traffic areas, making them easily accessible. In the UK, these booths are usually located in supermarkets, railway stations, shopping centres, and post offices. Popular locations include Tesco, Asda, Boots, and larger Post Office branches. They are generally available during the opening hours of their location, meaning they are accessible virtually all week.

You can also find the nearest passport photo booth based on your current location using online tools such as “Find a photo booth” or “Photo-Me UK”.

Cost and Payment Options

The photo booth prices vary, but generally, you will find it in the range of £5 — £10 for a set of four passport photos. Payment options include both cash and card payment facilities. Some modern booths also accept contactless card payments and mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, for added convenience.

Preparing for Your Passport Photo

Once you have found a self-service passport photo booth, you will need to take a moment to prepare for the photo to ensure that your image meets the requirements for the passport photo.

There are no rigid rules regarding dressing for your passport photograph in the UK; however, it is better to follow these recommendations:

Wear darker shades as they contrast well with the light background.
Uniforms, clothing similar to uniforms, or clothing with visible logos should be avoided.
Keep your hair tidy, make sure your face is visible, and remove any heavy jewellery that might cast a shadow on your face.
If you wear glasses regularly, you can keep them on, but make sure the frame does not cover your eyes.
Head coverings are generally not permitted unless worn for religious or medical reasons.

The UK government has precise rules regarding passport photographs:

The size should be 45 mm high by 35 mm wide – the standard size used in photo booths in the UK.
The photo must be clear, in focus, and true colour with a plain cream or light grey background.
The photographs must be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders, with no other objects or people in the frame.
You must be facing forward and looking straight at the camera with a neutral expression and your mouth closed.

All these rules are typically displayed in the photo booth for passport photos. It's essential to follow them strictly to prevent your passport application from getting rejected.

Using the Passport Photo Booth

Upon entering a photo booth, you will find yourself in a private, enclosed, and well-lit area that ensures control over the environment in which your photo is to be taken.

Step-by-Step Instructions for using a photo booth

Using a passport photo booth is a straightforward task. Here are the steps to follow:

First, depending on the payment method allowed by the booth, you will need to insert your payment — coins, notes, cards, or contactless payments. The cost of the photo set should be indicated on the booth.
After accepting your payment, follow the instructions on the screen. They will guide you through the process, including adjusting the seat so that your face and shoulders fit into the screen's marked area correctly. This ensures your photo matches your passport dimensions.
Lastly, before taking your photo, the booth will signal you. Ensure you bear a neutral facial expression, with both eyes open and mouth closed, looking straight into the camera. Normally, the booth will take a few photos, and you can select the one you're happiest with.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the process is simple, there are common pitfalls you should be aware of:

Incorrect positioning: Ensure you are in the middle of the photo, not too close or too far away. Your face should occupy between 29 and 34 mm from top to bottom. Make sure your face fits into the marks on the screen.
Poor Lighting: The photo booths have their own light source. Don't stand where a shadow can be cast on your face.
Expression and glasses: A neutral expression and a closed mouth are necessary. If you wear glasses, ensure there are no reflections and your eyes can be clearly seen.
Dress code: Avoid white or pale-coloured clothing that does not contrast the light background adequately.
Taking only one set: It's a good idea to take a backup set of photos, in case there is an issue with the first set.

Reviewing and Editing Your Photo

Once you have followed the on-screen instructions and successfully taken your picture, the machine allows you to review your photo and make minor edits to meet the guidelines. A thorough review and editing process ensures your passport photo meets all official requirements.

Checking for Errors

When checking for errors, focus primarily on common issues such as improper framing, the photo being too bright or too dark, your facial expression, and whether your eyes are clearly visible — especially if you're wearing glasses. Some booths may provide simple tools for adjusting the brightness, contrast, and cropping.

Retaking the Photo (if necessary)

The benefit of a photo booth is the immediate opportunity to retake photographs. If any issues contradict the listed requirements — including direction, facial expression, contrast, or size of the image — you can opt to retake your photo. Some booths allow for retakes without extra payment, while others might require an additional fee. Make sure you understand the terms before you begin the process.

When retaking the photo, adjust your pose based on the error. For example, if the photo missed the upper part of your shoulders, adjust your seat height or your position.

While traditional photo booths provide a reliable service, the latest mobile apps, such as 7ID, bring the process directly to you, offering greater flexibility, convenience, and control. It is like having a mobile photo booth in your pocket, saving you money, time, and hassle.

An Affordable Alternative: 7ID App — Your Mobile Passport Photo Booth!

For those seeking cost-effective convenience, consider the 7ID App — your pocket passport photo booth!

7ID is an accessible app that simplifies the passport photo-taking process right from your iPhone or Android. Whether it's for online or physical submissions, you are sorted with 7ID. So the next time you need a passport photo, skip the trip to the photo booth and pick up your phone. Snap, upload and let 7ID take care of the details. Here's what you'll enjoy about the tool:

Automatic image resizing: Not sure what your image dimensions are? No problem! 7ID intelligently resizes your photo to the required format, ensuring correct head and eye positioning.
Change background colour: Here, you can switch the background to white or blue, fitting most standard official document requirements. When using the Pro Subscription feature, it is very helpful if your initial image is against a monochrome background.
Ready-to-print templates: When your passport photo meets your approval, 7ID will offer you a printable template in your preferred size. It's compatible with popular paper formats like (4×6 inches), A4, A5, B5. Just print it, and a neat cut-out is all that's needed. Also, you don't need to search for a “digital passport photo booth near me” because 7ID will provide you with a digital passport photo file.
Advanced editing algorithms (Expert feature): For crucial documents, such as passports, 7ID extends an expert passport photo editing service. This premium option offers detailed editing, image quality enhancement, and efficient background removal.
24/7 support and quality check (Expert feature): As an expert feature user, you're guaranteed unlimited technical support. If you're unhappy with the final image or if it's rejected, 7ID promises to replace your photo.

Whether it is a passport, visa, or any other official document, trust 7ID App to get you the perfect photo!