✅ 100% Government Compliant • 10+ Locations in Mercer Island • Same-Day Service
📸 Local Guide + 10 Photo Locations

Passport Photos in Mercer Island, WA

Mercer Island offers convenient passport photo services through several local pharmacies and professional studios. Residents can quickly obtain official passport photographs at locations like Walgreens, CVS, and local print shops along Island Crest Way and North Mercer Way.

10+ Locations
$10-15 Avg Cost
5-10min Service Time
3.09★ Avg Rating
4.8/5 on Google
🏛️ State Dept Authorized
📰 Featured in Forbes, NYT
500K+ Customers

📍 Local Tips for Mercer Island

Insider knowledge from our Puget Sound Metropolitan Area experts

Plan your passport photo session during off-peak hours to minimize waiting time. Consider checking multiple providers for the best pricing and quickest turnaround.

💡 Popular neighborhoods: East Seattle Neighborhood and West Mercer Neighborhood

Compare Providers in Mercer Island

Quick comparison to help you choose the best option

Provider Price Speed Hours Best For
CVS Pharmacy $16.99 5-10 min 8am-10pm ⚡ Fastest
Walgreens $14.99 5-10 min 7am-10pm 💰 Best Value
UPS Store $14.99 10-15 min 9am-7pm ✓ Most Reliable
FedEx Office $14.95 10-15 min 8am-8pm Digital + Print
US Post Office $15.00 10-20 min 9am-5pm One-Stop (forms too)

How to Take a Perfect Passport Photo

DIY guide for 100% compliant photos, or visit any location below

1
📏

Correct Distance

Front camera: 16-20 inches from face
Rear camera: 4-6 feet away
Use tripod or ask for help

2

White Background

Stand 1-2 feet from plain white wall. No shadows, patterns, or objects. Uniform color throughout.

3
💡

Perfect Lighting

Natural daylight near window (not direct sun). Face the light. No flash. Soft, even lighting is key.

4
😐

Neutral Expression

Look at camera. Head straight. No smiling with teeth. Eyes open. Remove glasses.

5
👔

Dress Code

Dark, solid colors. Avoid white. No uniforms or patterns. No hats (except religious).

6

Or Get Pro Help

Visit any of 10+ locations below. Staff trained on requirements. Ready in 5-10 min. $10-15.

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

Passport Photo Locations in Mercer Island

All 10+ verified locations with hours, ratings, and directions

💡 Tip: Call ahead to confirm passport photo service availability, especially at smaller locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about passport photos in Mercer Island

How much do passport photos cost in Mercer Island? +
Passport photo services typically range from $12-$15 per set of photos. Most providers offer digital and printed options at competitive rates.
Where can I get passport photos in Mercer Island? +
Walgreens and CVS on Island Crest Way provide reliable passport photo services. The Mercer Island Community Center also offers occasional photo assistance.
Can I take my own passport photo at home? +
While DIY photos are technically allowed, professional services ensure compliance with strict government requirements. Professional photographers guarantee correct lighting, background, and dimensions.
How quickly can I get passport photos? +
Most passport photo sessions take approximately 5-7 minutes from start to finish. Digital processing is typically completed immediately.
What are the passport photo requirements? +
Photos must be 2×2 inches with a plain white or off-white background. Subjects must have a neutral facial expression with both eyes open.
Can I smile in my passport photo? +
Passport photos require a neutral, natural facial expression with mouth closed. Slight, natural smiles are permitted but exaggerated expressions are not allowed.
Do I need an appointment? +
Many locations offer walk-in passport photo services without prior scheduling. Peak times can have longer wait periods, so early morning or midweek visits are recommended.
What should I wear? +
Wear everyday attire avoiding white tops that might blend with the background. Neutral colors work best for consistent, professional-looking passport photos.
NEXT STEP

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10-minute online form
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Photo service included
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