Passport Photos in Santa Monica, CA — Locations, Hours & Photo Checker
Santa Monica offers multiple convenient passport photo services across its vibrant coastal neighborhoods, with options ranging from professional photography studios to pharmacy locations like CVS and Walgreens. Professional photographers and local print shops can quickly capture government-compliant passport images within minutes.
Passport Photo Locations in Santa Monica
All 17 verified locations with hours, ratings, and one-tap directions
Ambassador Passport and Visa Services, Inc.
The UPS Store
The UPS Store
FedEx Office Print & Ship Center
The UPS Store
Santa Monica Notary & Live Scan
💡 Tip: Call ahead to confirm passport photo service availability, especially at smaller locations.
Photo Providers in Santa Monica
Quick comparison of providers based on this city’s actual locations and ratings
| Provider | Locations in Santa Monica | Avg. Rating | Typical Hours | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UPS Store | 5 locations | 3.9★ | 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | $10-15 |
| CVS | 5 locations | 3.0★ | Open 24 hours | $10-15 |
| Walgreens | 4 locations | 2.7★ | 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM | $10-15 |
| FedEx | 1 location | 3.9★ | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | $10-15 |
📍 Local Tips for Santa Monica
Insider knowledge from our Los Angeles County experts
Consider taking your passport photo early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh midday sunlight typical of Southern California. The Third Street Promenade area has several convenient photo services with consistent, high-quality results.
US Passport Photo Requirements
Official specifications from the U.S. Department of State
📐 Size & Dimensions
Photo must be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
- Head height: 1 to 1⅜ inches
- Eye level: 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches from bottom
- Print on matte or glossy paper
📸 Photo Quality
High resolution, in focus, proper exposure
- Taken within last 6 months
- Color photo (no black & white)
- Natural skin tones
⚪ Background
Plain white or off-white only
- No patterns or textures
- No shadows on background
- Uniform color throughout
👤 Head Position
Face forward, directly at camera
- Head straight (not tilted)
- Full face view, ears visible
- Eyes open and clearly visible
😐 Expression
Neutral expression, mouth closed
- No smiling with teeth
- Both eyes open
- Natural expression
👓 Glasses & Accessories
Generally not allowed
- Remove eyeglasses (unless medical)
- No sunglasses or tinted lenses
- No headphones or devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about passport photos in Santa Monica
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Need to Renew Your Passport After Getting Your Photo?
Got your photo? Skip the 10-13 week wait. Our 3-day expedited renewal service handles your DS-82, expert review, and hand-delivery to the regional passport agency. Santa Monica residents save weeks.