Find Photo Studios Near You
Complete guide to getting passport photos in India. Compare photo studios, kiosks, and online alternatives to find the best option for your needs and budget.
Finding Photo Studios for Passport Photos
Getting a passport photo used to mean only one thing: visiting a local photo studio. Today, you have multiple options ranging from traditional studios to self-service kiosks to DIY at home. Each option has its advantages depending on your priorities: convenience, cost, or quality control.
This guide will help you find the best option for getting passport photos in your area, understand what to expect at different venues, and potentially save money by choosing the smartest approach for your situation.
All Your Options for Passport Photos
| Option | Cost | Time | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Studio | ₹100-300 | 15-30 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Local Photo Shop | ₹50-100 | 10-15 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Mall/Metro Kiosk | ₹50-100 | 5 min | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Mobile App + Print Shop | ₹10-20 | 10 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| PassportSizePhoto.in + Print | ₹0 + ₹10 | 5 min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Types of Photo Studios in India
Professional Photography Studios
Full-service studios with professional lighting, backdrops, and experienced photographers. Best for important documents and when you want guaranteed quality.
- • Professional lighting setup
- • Multiple retake options
- • Photo editing available
- • Higher cost (₹150-300)
Local Photo Shops
Small neighborhood shops found near markets, bus stands, and government offices. Quick service, reasonable prices, variable quality.
- • Convenient locations
- • Quick turnaround
- • Affordable (₹50-100)
- • Quality varies by shop
Photo Kiosks
Automated photo booths in malls, metro stations, and airports. Fast and consistent, but limited flexibility for adjustments.
- • Very quick (2-5 minutes)
- • Consistent output
- • No retake flexibility
- • Fixed lighting conditions
DIY at Home
Take your own photo using smartphone and an online tool like PassportSizePhoto.in. Most affordable and convenient option with full control.
- • Completely free online
- • Unlimited retakes
- • Your own timing
- • Only ₹10-20 for printing
Detailed Cost Comparison
Breaking Down the Costs
* DIY approach saves up to 95% compared to professional studios while often providing better results because you can take unlimited photos until you get the perfect shot.
What to Check When Visiting a Studio
Before You Pay
- ✅ Confirm the size: Ask for exactly 2x2 inches (51x51mm) for Indian passport.
- ✅ Request white background: Some studios use blue by default.
- ✅ Preview before printing: Ask to see the photo on screen first.
- ✅ Check head position: Your face should be centered and correctly sized.
- ✅ Ask for digital copy: If you need it for online applications.
- ✅ Inspect print quality: Check for blurriness, color accuracy, and paper quality.
- ✅ Get extras: Always get 2-4 extra prints as backup.
Red Flags
- ❌ Studio refuses to show preview before printing
- ❌ Photographer unsure about passport photo specifications
- ❌ Only offers one shot with no retakes
- ❌ Poor lighting or outdated equipment
- ❌ Significantly higher prices than market rate
Finding Studios in Major Indian Cities
| City | Popular Areas | Price Range | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | Fort, Dadar, Andheri, Borivali | ₹100-200 | Abundant |
| Delhi NCR | Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar | ₹80-200 | Very Common |
| Bangalore | MG Road, Jayanagar, Koramangala | ₹100-250 | Common |
| Chennai | T Nagar, Mylapore, Anna Nagar | ₹80-150 | Common |
| Kolkata | Park Street, Gariahat, Salt Lake | ₹60-150 | Common |
| Hyderabad | Ameerpet, Himayatnagar, Secunderabad | ₹80-150 | Common |
Tip: Search "passport photo near [your location]" on Google Maps to find nearby studios with reviews and ratings. Look for studios with 4+ star ratings and recent reviews.
Better Alternative: Create Photos at Home
With modern smartphones and free online tools, creating professional passport photos at home has never been easier. Here is why millions of people are skipping studios:
Why DIY is Often Better
Cost Savings
Save ₹100-250 per photo session. Only pay ₹10-20 for printing.
Unlimited Retakes
Take 50 photos if needed. Choose the absolute best one.
Convenience
Do it anytime, anywhere. No travel, no waiting in lines.
Privacy
Your photo stays on your device. No third-party storage.
How to Create Photos at Home
- 1. Take a photo against a white wall with good lighting.
- 2. Upload to PassportSizePhoto.in which is completely free.
- 3. Download the print-ready file with multiple photos.
- 4. Print at any nearby print shop for just ₹10-20.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do photo studios charge for passport photos in India?
Prices vary by location. Metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore typically charge ₹100-200 for 4-8 photos. Smaller cities charge ₹50-100, and rural areas may charge as low as ₹30-50. Premium studios in malls can charge up to ₹300.
How long does it take to get passport photos at a studio?
Most studios provide instant service taking 10-15 minutes total. This includes taking the photo, minor editing, and printing. Some busy studios may take 20-30 minutes during peak hours.
Should I make an appointment at a photo studio?
Most photo studios in India work on walk-in basis and do not require appointments. However, during peak season (exam times, before holidays), you might face queues. Some premium studios do accept appointments.
Can I get a digital copy of my passport photo from the studio?
Many studios now offer digital copies for an additional ₹20-50. Some include it free with print orders. Always ask beforehand if you need a digital file for online applications.
What if I do not like the photos at the studio?
Most studios will retake your photo if you are not satisfied. Ask to see a preview before printing. If you are still unhappy after multiple attempts, you can try a different studio or use an online tool at home.
Are photo kiosks as good as professional studios?
Photo kiosks at malls or metro stations are faster and cheaper but offer less flexibility. You cannot adjust lighting or retake easily. For important documents like passports, professional studios or DIY at home are more reliable.
Do studios know the correct passport photo specifications?
Most established studios know standard passport sizes, but requirements change and vary by document type. Always specify exactly what you need (2x2 inches for Indian passport) and verify the output before paying.
Can I take my own photo and get it printed at a studio?
Yes, many studios and print shops will print photos you provide. This is a cost-effective option: create your photo free at PassportSizePhoto.in and print at any shop for just ₹10-20.
What is the best time to visit a photo studio?
Visit during weekday mornings when studios are least crowded. Avoid weekends, evenings, and dates close to major holidays or exam season when passport renewal applications spike.
Are mall photo booths reliable for passport photos?
Mall photo booths are convenient but often have fixed lighting and limited retake options. The quality can be hit or miss. For important documents, a proper studio or DIY approach is safer.
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