TravelTravelIf you get your application wrong, it could delay your passport and ruin your holiday07:14, 10 Jun 2026A rule all about the colour red could see your application rejected or delayed this year. According to Government officials, you must adhere to all of the rules or risk ruining your holiday if you don't get your passport in time.‌The GOV.UK website states that you will need a "digital photo to apply for a passport online. You must get a new photo when you get a new passport, even if your appearance has not changed."‌The quality of your digital photo matters, and any red eye could be an issue. As well as this, it adds that "your photo must have been taken in the last month. Your application will be delayed if your photos do not meet the rules."‌How do I take a digital photo for my passport?Your photo must be:clear and in focusin colourunaltered by computer softwareat least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tallat least 50KB and no more than 10MB‌The digital photo must:contain no other objects or peoplebe taken against a plain light-coloured backgroundbe in clear contrast to the backgroundnot have ‘red eye’If you’re using a photo taken on your own device, you need to make sure that it includes your head, shoulders and upper body. Make sure that you don't crop your photo as this will be done for you.‌In your photo, you must:be facing forwards and looking straight at the camerahave a plain expression and your mouth closedhave your eyes open and visiblenot have hair in front of your eyesnot have a head covering (unless it’s for religious or medical reasons)not have anything covering your facenot have any shadows on your face or behind youYou should avoid wearing glasses in your photo unless they are medically necessary. If you need to wear glasses, they must not be sunglasses or tinted lenses. Ensure that your eyes are fully visible and not obscured by the frames, glare, reflections, or shadows.‌How to take a passport photo for babies and children?Children must be on their own in the picture. Babies must not be holding toys or using dummies.Children under 6 do not have to be looking directly at the camera or have a plain expression.Children under one do not have to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, but your hand must not be visible in the photo.Children under one should lie on a plain light-coloured sheet. Take the photo from above.How can I get a digital photo?You can get a digital photo either by taking one at a photo booth or shop before applying for your passport. You can also take one using your own device during your passport application.Article continues belowGOV.UK cautions: "Photos from a booth or shop are more likely to be approved than a photo taken using your own device."If you get your photo taken at a shop or booth, make sure to choose the option to get a code with your photos. You will be asked to enter the photo code during your passport application and your digital photo will be added to your application.There are a few different rules for printed pictures here, such as the size of the photo and how to send it alongside your application. However, not having a "red eye" in photos remains the same.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌TravelAir travelTravel TipsTravel money