How to Prepare for Your Passport Photo at Photo Jovial in Jean Talon
Your 2025 guide to getting perfect passport photos at Photo Jovial, Montreal—covering every step, from what to wear to meeting Canadian passport photo guidelines. Get ready for a smooth, stress-free experience and passport pictures that pass inspection the first time.
At Photo Jovial, Jean Talon, Montreal, years of expertise have taught that preparing for your passport photos is more than just showing up and saying cheese. The smallest detail—a shadow, a smile, a white shirt blending into the background—can be the difference between a fast approval and a frustrating do-over. Let's make sure your passport size photo meets every official requirement, so you can travel with confidence.
Why Preparation Matters for Passport Pictures
A passport photo for passport isn't just a formality; it's a strict checklist. The Government of Canada requires two identical, unaltered photos, taken by a professional passport photographer within the last six months. The size? 50 x 70 mm. The face, from chin to crown, must measure 31–36 mm. The background? Plain white or light-coloured—no shadows, no patterns, no exceptions. For a complete breakdown of all requirements, check our detailed passport photo requirements guide.
What to Bring and Expect at Photo Jovial
No Appointment Needed: Drop in at your convenience. Fast, reliable service means you're in and out in minutes.
Bring ID: Bring your current passport or government-issued ID if possible. It helps confirm your identity and ensures your passport pictures match your documents.
Dress for Contrast: Avoid white or skin-tone tops. Choose darker, solid colours to stand out against the white background. Skip shiny jewelry and flashy accessories—they can cause glare or distraction. Whether you need photos for Canadian documents or international passport photos, the same contrast principles apply.
Personal Grooming: Go for a natural look. A light touch of powder can help reduce shine. For hair, avoid styles that cover your eyes or eyebrows. If you wear your hair down, ensure your face is fully visible.
Glasses: Remove glasses unless medically required (with documentation). No sunglasses or tinted lenses. If you must wear glasses, make sure there's no glare and your eyes are clearly visible.
Head Coverings: Only allowed for religious or medical reasons, and your face must be fully visible. Bring supporting documentation if needed.
How to Pose for Your Passport Photo
Neutral Expression: No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions. Mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera.
Head Position: Face square to the camera, head centered, no tilting or turning. Shoulders relaxed, posture natural.
No Accessories: Remove hats, headbands, and large earrings. Hair clips and ties should be subtle and not cover your face.
No Shadows: The lighting at Photo Jovial is set to eliminate shadows on your face and background, ensuring your passport photo studio delivers photos that pass inspection.
What Happens After the Photo
Review Your Photo: At Photo Jovial, you can review your photo before it's printed. Not happy? Ask for a retake—your satisfaction matters.
Photo Details: One photo will have the studio's name, address, and the date taken on the back, as required by Canadian passport photo guidelines.
Two Copies: You'll receive two identical copies, ready for your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Wearing white or light tops that blend into the background
• Smiling, frowning, or any non-neutral expression
• Glasses with glare or tinted lenses
• Hair covering eyes or eyebrows
• Shadows on your face or background
• Using old photos (must be taken within the last 6 months)
• Missing studio information on the back of the photo
Why Choose Photo Jovial for Photo Passeport Montreal?
Photo Jovial is trusted for photo passeport in Montreal because every detail is checked—size, lighting, expression, and background. With over 20 years of experience, the team knows the Canadian passport photo guidelines inside out, ensuring your photos are accepted the first time. No appointments, no stress, just expert service from your local passport photo studio.
Pro Tips
- 1Arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle in and check your appearance.
- 2Dress in dark, solid colours for best contrast.
- 3Remove glasses and accessories unless medically necessary.
- 4Practice a neutral expression in the mirror before your visit.
- 5Review your photo before printing—ask for a retake if you're not satisfied.
- 6Always use a professional passport photographer for guaranteed compliance.
