AnswerUnited States online passport applicationchecked November 10, 2026
Blurry, grainy or pixelated photo
Your photo must be sharp and in focus, without grain, pixelation or printer dots. Blur usually comes from movement or low light; pixelation usually comes from sending the photo through a messaging app, a screenshot, or a digital zoom.
Why it happens
- Low light makes the camera use a slow shutter, and the photo blurs.
- Digital zoom or a screenshot reduces the real resolution.
- Text messages and some chat apps compress photos.
- A photo of a printed photo, or a scan, shows grain and printer dots.
How to fix it
Use good light
More light means a faster shutter and a sharper photo.
Tap to focus on the face
Hold the camera still and focus on the eyes.
Use the highest quality setting
The State Department suggests setting the camera to its highest quality.
Move the file without compression
Use a cable, AirDrop or a cloud folder, not a text message.
Check your photo now, free
Checks
- Add a photo to see the crop and the checks.
Bought your photo here and it was still rejected? You get a free redo or a refund. See the guarantee
Questions
Can I sharpen the photo in an app?
No. Sharpening is a digital change. Retake the photo.