Tesco Passport Photo

Does Tesco have Photo Booths?

Yes, many Tesco stores across the UK are equipped with photo booths, primarily operated by Max Spielmann. These booths are a convenient solution for those needing quick and professional passport pictures, as well as other types of ID photos.

Tesco's passport photo price is around £6 for five prints.

Location and Accessibility

Tesco's photo booths are predominantly located in larger, more spacious Tesco Extra and Superstore locations. Generally, these booths will be near the entrance or in the customer service area.

The precise location can vary, so it’s a good idea to ask a staff member if you're visiting a store for the first time. These booths are designed to be accessible, with many accommodating wheelchair users, ensuring everyone has equal access to their services.

Features of the Booths

Tesco’s booths are generally equipped with instructions designed with the user’s ease. Here are some features that elevate the overall experience:

• Tesco's photo booths are more than just primary kiosks; think of them as mini, high-tech studios.
• Inside, a digital screen makes taking photos easy, guiding you every step of the way.
• They tell you exactly how to sit or stand, where to look, and how to hold your face for official photos.
• The lighting inside is set up to avoid shadows or too-bright spots, so your picture turns out clear and well-lit.

User Experience

Using a Tesco photo booth is straightforward and user-friendly. Here's what you can expect:

• Instructions will be on a screen to guide you as you enter the booth.
• You can take several shots; if you don't like your first try, you can take another one.
• After you pick the photo you like best, the booth will print it out in just a few minutes.
• The whole thing is quick and straightforward, perfect for when you're in a rush or need photos at the last minute.

Tesco's photo printing opening times can vary from one location to another. You can use the store locator feature on their website to locate the nearest outlet and then call to inquire about the timing.

How Much are Passport Photos at Tesco?

The cost of passport photos at Tesco is £6 for five prints.

The pricing at Tesco for passport photos is quite reasonable compared to other vendors, who often charge more. They offer top-notch images that are ideally suited for passport applications.

Their service ensures that the pictures adhere to the strict requirements set by UK passport standards, and they produce high-quality prints. Opting for Tesco’s passport photo service means customers can enjoy easy access and excellent quality.

Cost-Saving Tips

While the standard price for passport pictures at Tesco provides good value, there are ways to further reduce costs, especially if you require multiple sets of photos or are on a tight budget.

1. Discounts and Offers: Look for ongoing discounts or special offers at Tesco photo booths, usually around Christmas, Thanksgiving, or public holidays. There are also discounts for senior citizens on some occasions.
2. Use Tesco Clubcard Points: Tesco Clubcard members can access exclusive discounts using their membership cards. They can collect points that can be redeemed for complimentary passport images. Further details about these offers are available on Tesco’s website.
3. Standard Photo Prints: A clever hack is to take a passport-compliant photo at home and then print it in the required size of Tesco's standard photo printing service. It is significantly cheaper than the passport image service but requires ensuring that your home-taken photo meets all the official requirements.

What Are the Tesco Passport Photo Requirements?

Tesco’s passport photos must align with the specific requirements set by the UK Passport Office. These guidelines ensure that your passport picture is acceptable for official documents. Below are the detailed criteria you need to follow:

Passport Photo Size

• Dimensions: The standard UK passport picture size is 35mm x 45mm.
• Proportions: The photo must be correctly proportioned, with the image fitting precisely within these dimensions.

Face Position

• Orientation: Face the camera straight on, with your head and shoulders visible.
• Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes open.
• Eyes: Both eyes should be visible, not covered by hair or glasses.

Head Size

• Size in Frame: Your head should not occupy over 80 per cent of the frame.
• Height: The distance from the bottom of the chin to the crown of the head should be between 29mm and 34mm.

Background and Lighting

• Background Color: Plain cream or light grey background without patterns or shadows.
• Lighting: Even lighting on the face without shadows, glare, or red-eye.

Glasses and Lens

• Glasses: If worn, they should not cause glare or reflections and should not cover the eyes.
• Tinted Lenses: Tinted glasses or sunglasses are not acceptable.

Facial Hair

• Presentation: Facial hair is permissible as long as it doesn’t obscure the face.
• Consistency: Your appearance in the picture should match your everyday look. Avoid wearing wigs or extravagant hair jewels.

Makeup and Jewellery

• Makeup: Should be minimal so as not to alter your appearance significantly.
• Jewellery: Small earrings and necklaces are acceptable but shouldn’t obscure any part of your face.

Headgear

• Religious Reasons: Headgear is only allowed for religious or medical reasons.
• Facial Visibility: The face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead and both edges of the face.

Photo Quality

• Sharpness and Clarity: The photo must be in sharp focus and clear.
• Print Quality: High-quality, no smudges, creases, or marks.
• Digital Alterations: No image editing allowed, including removing red-eye.

Recency

• Image Validity: Photos older than a month can lead to rejection. It is best to click a new picture for your passport application.

Digital Passport Photo Services at Tesco

Tesco's digital passport photo services cater to the modern requirements of passport applications. The service is particularly useful for online passport renewals or applications requiring a digital copy of your passport picture.

The Process of Obtaining Digital Passport Photos at Tesco

1. Photo Taking: Just like the traditional process, you start by having your photo taken at a Tesco photo booth. These booths are equipped with digital technology to ensure the picture meets the required standards for passport images.
2. Digital Format: Once your photo is taken, it is processed to fit the specific digital requirements. It includes the correct sizing, resolution, and formatting compliant with the UK passport photo regulations.
3. Obtaining the Digital Code: After the photo is processed, Tesco provides a unique digital code which can be used to retrieve your digital passport photo online.
4. Using the Digital Photo: You can use the digital code to upload your photo directly onto online passport applications, making the process seamless and efficient.
5. Validity and Security: The digital photo provided by Tesco is valid for online applications. Tesco ensures that your digital image is securely handled, respecting privacy and data protection laws.

Additional Services Offered at Tesco

Besides offering standard passport picture services, Tesco has expanded its range to include additional services catering to various documentation needs. These services are designed to streamline the process of applying for passports and visas, making it a one-stop solution for customers.

Apply and Go Service

Tesco's Apply and Go service is a comprehensive passport application and renewal solution. It is designed to simplify and expedite the process for customers.

Key Features of the Apply and Go Service

• Assistance with Application Forms: Tesco provides expert assistance in filling out passport application forms, ensuring that all details are accurate and complete.
• Photo Service Integration: The service includes taking a passport picture that meets all the required specifications. The integration ensures that customers leave with a complete application package.
• Document Checking: Tesco offers a document-checking service where all the necessary documents for the passport application are reviewed for completeness and accuracy.
• Submission Guidance: Customers receive guidance on submitting their passport application, including information on the nearest passport offices or online submission processes.
• Renewal Services: For those looking to renew their passports, Tesco's Apply and Go service provides a streamlined process, including updating photos and ensuring all renewal criteria are met.

Visa Photo Services

In addition to passport pictures, Tesco offers specialised visa photo services catering to the different requirements of visa applications in various countries.

Alternative: How to Take a Passport Photo at Home Using Pixelied?

In the digital age, taking a passport photo at home has become a convenient alternative to visiting Tesco’s passport photo booths, as this method is generally cost-effective.

Pixelied, an online passport image tool, offers a user-friendly platform for creating pictures that meet official standards. Here’s a detailed guide on using Pixelied to take passport photos at home.

Step 1: Take a Photo and Upload It

• Find a Suitable Location: Choose a well-lit area with a plain, light-coloured background. Avoid areas with shadows or uneven lighting.
• Set Up Your Camera: Use a digital camera or a smartphone with high-resolution quality. Place it on a stable surface or use a tripod to ensure the camera is at eye level.
• Take the Photo: Stand 1.5 to 2 feet away from the camera. Ensure your face is fully visible, with a neutral expression, and both eyes open. Follow the standard guidelines regarding headgear, glasses, and appearance.
• Upload the Photo to Pixelied: Visit the Pixelied website and upload your photo. Ensure the picture is clear and in focus.

Step 2: AI Image Processing

• Automatic Adjustments: Pixelied’s AI technology automatically adjusts the photo to meet passport photo requirements. It includes cropping to the correct size and adjusting the lighting.
• Compliance Check: The AI checks for compliance with passport picture standards, such as background colour and face positioning.

Step 3: Download the Digital Photos

• Review the Photo: Once satisfied with the adjustments, review the final image to ensure it meets all requirements.
• Download: Download the digital version of your passport image. Pixelied provides the picture in the correct format and size for passport applications.

Step 4: Place Order for Printouts

• Printing Option: If you need physical copies, Pixelied often offers options to order printouts directly through their platform.
• Local Printing: Alternatively, you can take the downloaded digital photo to a local print shop or use a home printer to print the images on high-quality paper.

How to Print Photos from iPhone at Tesco?

Printing photos from an iPhone at Tesco is a straightforward process, thanks to the technology available in many Tesco stores. The service allows customers to print photos directly from their iPhones, making it convenient to get physical copies of digital images. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do this:

Preparation

• Select Your Photos: Before heading to Tesco, choose the photos you wish to print from your iPhone gallery. It’s a good idea to create a separate album for easy access.
• Check the Photo Quality: Ensure the photos are of high resolution and quality for optimal print results.

At the Tesco Store

• Locate a Photo Printing Kiosk: Once you're at Tesco, look for the photo printing kiosk. These are usually located in the electronics or photo department. If you can't find it, ask a staff member for assistance.
• Connect Your iPhone: Most Tesco photo kiosks have a docking station or a cable to connect your iPhone. Connect your phone to the booth using the provided cable.

Using the Kiosk

• Follow On-Screen Instructions: The kiosk will display step-by-step instructions on how to upload and print your photos. Follow these instructions.
• Select Photos to Print: Access the album you created earlier and select the photos you want to print. You can choose different sizes and formats, depending on your needs.
• Confirm Your Order: After selecting your photos, review your order and confirm the print request.

Payment and Printing

• Payment: The kiosk will display the total cost of printing your photos. Pay for your prints at the booth. After payment, the kiosk will start printing your images. The process may take a few minutes, depending on the size and number of prints.
• Collect Your Photos: Collect your photos from the designated kiosk area once the printing is complete.

Using the Tesco Photo App

• Download the App: For an even more convenient experience, download the Tesco Photo app if available. The app allows you to upload photos from your iPhone to the app and then use the app at the kiosk for quicker printing.
• Transfer via App: Follow the instructions in the app to select and transfer your photos to the Tesco photo printing system.