AnswerUnited States online passport applicationchecked November 10, 2026
Using a selfie as a passport photo
The State Department says you can have a friend or family member take your photo. It does not ban selfies, but arm's-length selfies often fail: the camera is too close, the head tilts, and one arm shows in the frame. A timer and a stable surface work better.
Why it happens
- The lens is too close to the face, which distorts it.
- Holding the phone tilts the head and shoulders.
- The bottom of the frame cuts off the shoulders.
How to fix it
Use a timer or ask someone
Prop the phone at eye height 1 to 1.5 m away and use the timer, or ask someone to take it.
Use the live guide
The camera mode on this page guides head size, level and light, and only takes the photo when every check passes.
Frame to the shoulders
The bottom of the photo should be the edge of your shoulders.
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
Front or rear camera?
The rear camera usually has better resolution. With someone else holding it, use the rear camera.