How to Print Passport Size Photos at Home
Complete guide to printing professional passport photos. Save money by printing at home or take our print-ready file to any local photo shop.
Print at Home
Using your own printer
- ✓ Cost: ₹10-15 per sheet
- ✓ Time: Ready in 5 minutes
- ✓ Requirement: Photo printer + paper
Print at Shop
Local photo printing shop
- ✓ Cost: ₹5-10 per sheet
- ✓ Time: 10-30 minutes
- ✓ Requirement: Just the digital file
Step 1: Choose the Right Paper
Photo Paper Recommendations
| Type | Finish | GSM | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glossy | Shiny, reflective | 200-260 | Vibrant colors, professional look |
| Semi-Matte | Slight sheen | 180-220 | Balanced, less fingerprints |
| Matte | No shine | 180-200 | No glare, official documents |
Popular Brands in India
Epson Premium Glossy • Canon Photo Paper Pro •HP Premium Plus • Kodak Ultra Premium
Available at: Amazon, Flipkart, local stationery shops. Cost: ₹150-300 for 20 sheets.
Step 2: Configure Printer Settings
Windows Settings
- 1. Open photo file and press Ctrl+P
- 2. Select your photo printer
- 3. Click More Settings or Preferences
- 4. Set Quality: Best or High
- 5. Set Paper Type: Photo Paper Glossy
- 6. Set Paper Size: 4x6 inch (4R)
- 7. Set Scaling: 100% or Actual Size
Mac Settings
- 1. Open photo in Preview
- 2. Press Cmd+P to print
- 3. Select printer and click Show Details
- 4. Set Paper Size: 4x6 Photo
- 5. Set Quality: Best
- 6. Set Media Type: Photo Paper
- 7. Scale: 100%
Critical Setting
Never use "Fit to Page" or "Scale to Fit". This will change photo dimensions. Always select 100%, Actual Size, or No Scaling.
Step 3: Print Your Photos
- 1
Load Photo Paper
Insert paper with glossy/coated side facing up (or per your printer's instructions). Use paper tray guide for alignment.
- 2
Print Test Page
Print one sheet first to check colors and alignment. Adjust settings if needed before printing more.
- 3
Allow Drying Time
Let prints dry for 2-5 minutes. Avoid touching printed surface to prevent smudging and fingerprints.
Step 4: Cut Your Photos
Tools Needed
- Sharp scissors or paper cutter
- Ruler or scale (inches/cm)
- Cutting mat (optional)
- Pencil for marking (optional)
Cutting Tips
- • Cut along outer edges of each photo
- • Use ruler as straight-edge guide
- • Make smooth, single cuts (no jagged edges)
- • Measure final size: 2x2 inches (51x51mm)
Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost per Sheet | Photos | Cost per Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo Studio | ₹50-100 | 4-6 | ₹15-25 |
| Local Print Shop | ₹5-10 | 4-8 | ₹1-2 |
| Home Printing | ₹10-15 | 4-8 | ₹1-3 |
* Home printing costs include paper (~₹8) and ink usage (~₹5). Actual costs vary by printer and paper brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paper should I use for passport photos?
Use photo paper with 180-200 GSM weight. Glossy or semi-matte finish works best. Popular brands include Epson, Canon, HP, and Kodak.
Can I print passport photos on regular paper?
Not recommended. Regular paper absorbs ink differently and produces lower quality that may be rejected. Always use photo paper.
What size photo paper works best?
4R (4x6 inches) or 6R (6x8 inches) photo paper is ideal. These sizes accommodate 4-8 passport photos per sheet.
How much does it cost to print at home?
Around ₹5-15 per sheet depending on paper and ink costs. Much cheaper than ₹50-100 at photo studios.
How can I print at exact size?
Set print scaling to 100% or "Actual Size" - never use "Fit to Page". Measure printed photos to verify.
Glossy or matte finish for passport?
Both are generally accepted. Matte reduces glare and fingerprints. Check specific requirements - some documents prefer matte.
Can I take print file to local shop?
Yes! Download our print sheet and take to any photo printing shop. They charge ₹5-10 per 4R sheet.
How do I cut photos accurately?
Use a ruler and sharp scissors or paper cutter. Cut along the outer edges of each photo. Leave no white borders.
What if photos come out too dark/light?
Adjust your original photo brightness before processing. Also check printer ink levels and paper settings.
How many photos fit on one sheet?
Our tool offers 4, 6, or 8 photo layouts. 4 photos is standard and leaves room for cutting marks.
Ready to Create Your Print-Ready Photos?
Our free tool generates print sheets optimized for home printing and local shops.
Create Print Sheet Free →