2x2 Photos Online

What is a 2 x 2 Photo?

2x2 pictures refer to a photograph with dimensions of 2 inches by 2 inches (or approximately 51 millimeters by 51 millimeters). It is a standard size for various identification purposes, including passport pictures, green card photos, visa photos, and other official documents.

The 2 x 2 photo typically shows a person's head and shoulders centered within the frame and follows specific composition and formatting requirements outlined by the Department of State for U.S. passports.

Remember, every passport image must meet the specified dimensions and any other guidelines mentioned on the official website of the U.S. State Department.

How Much Does a 2x2 Picture Cost?

The cost for 2” by 2” photos can be anywhere between $5 to $20. The price varies depending on factors such as type of photo, print quality, photo paper, and location where you take it.

The cost typically includes the following services:

1. Professional photoshoot
2. Processing the image (editing, resizing, etc.)
3. Printing a set of two photos

Furthermore, if you want cheap 2 by 2 photos, then take a photo on your own and get it printed for a few dollars at a nearby print shop.

Here’s a general overview of cost for digital pictures in the US:

What Are the Requirements for 2x2 Pictures?

The official requirements for a 2x2 passport photo are mentioned below:

Photo Background and Head Size in Photo

• The background of the 2x2 photo cannot be any color other than white.
• The head size in a 2 by 2 photo should be between 1-1 ⅜ inches from the top of the head to the bottom of the chin.

Print Specifications

• The color photo should be printed on good-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
• A 2x2 photo cannot be a selfie.
• Do not apply filters on photos as it is used for identification purposes, and filters might alter the original face.

Glasses & Other Accessories

• Take off glasses to take passport pictures.
• Wireless devices, hands-free, headphones, or other accessories are also prohibited.

Clothing & Headgear

• The clothing for taking a 2x2 photo must not be a uniform or camouflage attire.
• Head coverings are not permissible for taking such images per the US Department of State guidelines. It is only allowed for religious or medical purposes if you submit a signed statement with your passport application.

Permanent Tattoos

• There is no restriction for taking photos with permanent tattoos.

Where Can I Get a 2x2 Passport Photo?

To get 2x2 photos, there are many options where you can have it taken. Some of the most convenient and affordable options are:

Drug Stores and Pharmacies

Pharmacies are the most convenient options to get perfectly sized passport images as they offer high-quality service at a reasonable price range across various locations. Rite Aid, Walgreens, and CVS are among the largest pharmacy chains in the US. There are over 20,000 locations of these pharmacies, so finding a nearby location won’t be an issue.

1. Rite Aid: Rite Aid is one of the most affordable and convenient places to get 2x2 photos. Take your photos at Rite Aid pharmacy for $8.99.
2. CVS: CVS uses KODAK Biometric technology that automatically verifies the compliance of photos with technical guidelines specified by the US Department of State. Take your passport snaps at CVS for $16.99.
3. Walgreens: There are almost 7700+ Walgreens outlets offering photo labs. You can opt for Walgreens to get your passport pictures for $16.99. All the requirements for passport snaps are considered while generating your photos.
4. Target: The passport photo cost at Target is $9.99 per set of two pictures. Target takes great passport snaps that have both sharpness and balanced saturation. The photos are printed at Target on good Kodak paper quality.

Photography Studios

Professional photo studios are an optimal choice for obtaining biometric passport photos due to their comprehensive understanding of the essential requirements and advanced equipment capable of producing superior-quality images.

Their seasoned photographers are well-versed in the nuances of lighting, angle, and composition, thus ensuring that your photograph meets all strict passport picture guidelines. Furthermore, these studios offer quick services for those in need of immediate results, making them a reliable one-stop solution for all your passport image needs.

Shipping Centers

Another good option for taking good passport snaps is the shipping center services. FedEx offers expedited passport services and passport photos, making it a more suitable choice for people who need a passport. Among various shipping centers, FedEx offices and UPS stores are the most viable options to take and print your passport pictures.

1. FedEx: You can get 2x2 passport photos for $14.95 at FedEx. FedEx's specialized software ensures that the captured photos align with the requirements to help customers avoid delays while submitting.
2. The UPS Store: Get inexpensive passport pictures at UPS for only $11.99. It is one of the cheapest options to get quality passport pictures.
3. Postal Annex: Postal Annex is another viable option for receiving quality passport picture services. You can get high-quality passport images at PostalAnnex for $15.
4. Staples: Get same-day passport picture service at 1000+ Staples stores. Visit the Staples store during business hours to get your photos taken. The cost for a set of two photos at Staples is $14.99.

Post Offices

Post office is another option in the US to get photos and submit your passport applications. So, if you have limited time, take advantage of the one-stop shop provided by the United States Post Office (USPS). It will help you save both time and effort. The price of taking passport pictures at USPS is $15. It includes a professional photoshoot and two 2” by 2” physical prints but doesn’t include the passport application fee.

Online Passport Photo Tools

Online passport photo tools have revolutionized the way we create professional-looking images conveniently from home. Pixelied stands out among these solutions with its user-friendly interface and quick processing.

Allowing users to upload and automatically make changes to the image to fit the precise dimensions set by the US Department of State takes the guesswork out of compliance. It is a convenient, effective, and budget-friendly alternative to traditional passport picture services.

How to Use Pixelied’s 2x2 Photo Converter?

Using Pixelied’s 2x2 picture converter is very simple. All you have to do is:

1. Open the Pixelied website.
2. Click on ‘Upload Your Image.’
3. Choose a photo from your computer/phone.
4. Within a few seconds, you will see an edited image of a 2x2-inch size.
5. The AI automatically adjusts the image and ensures it meets State Department requirements.
6. Download the digital photo or order the printouts delivered to your doorstep.

How to Take a 2 x 2 Picture Using a Smartphone?

Here are simple stepwise guidelines on how to take a 2”x2” picture using a smartphone:

1. To take a biometric photo, you need to find a background without shadows. The background color should be white with no shadows on the face.
2. A selfie cannot be used as a passport image; therefore, take a photo using a tripod stand. You can also request any friend or family member to click your pictures.
3. Mostly, smartphones have square ratio mode, which can automatically take a correct size photo. Otherwise, crop an image to a 2x2 size photo using Pixelied.
4. While clicking a photo, ensure the face is centered in the frame. The head should be tilted slightly upwards, and the face must be directed toward the camera. The attire can not be a uniform or camouflage clothing. Snap multiple shots until you are satisfied with the captured image.
5. If you have a printer at home, take it to print. Or you can visit a nearby photo/print shop to take the print of your image.

How to Print a 2x2 Passport Photo at Home?

To take a print of a 2x2 passport at home, follow these steps:

1. Open the photo you want to print.
2. Crop it into a 2x2 size photo and save it. You can use photo editing software for this purpose as well.
3. Now, right-click on the photo and select the print option.
4. Select the quality, paper size, and number of copies you want.
5. Make sure to use glossy photo-quality paper and then click print.

The photo must match your current appearance. If you’ve undergone significant facial piercings, facial surgery, or gender transition in the last six months, you must take a new photo.