Your portrait on ID card is where you make your first impression on official occasions and how officials identify you. A high-quality ID photo is always your first ticket to draw viewers’ attention and make you look professional. In South Africa, there are some items that you need to know before you take such a formal photograph on your ID card or other identification. Scroll down the blog and learn where to take ID photos near you.
South African ID Photo Requirements
Before you apply for a South African smart ID card, it’s important to check official requirements and avoid rejection. Below are general South African ID photo requirements.
- The size of your ID image should be 35 mm×45 mm.
- Light grey is the required color for the backdrop.
- The photograph that you submit should be on resolution, 600 dpi.
- The ID photo is supposed to be printable.
- Filters or effects are forbidden by the authority. The image must be able to identify the applicant by accurately representing his current appearance.
Where to Take ID Photos Near Me
Several options available when you need to take ID photos near you. The following photo stores have built a strong location network at community level. With walk-in services for various kinds of photos, you can take and print quality South African ID photos in those stores that are reachable from your home.
Postnet
Postnet provides small businesses and customers with high-quality printing and shipping service. Whether you are applying for a new ID card or renewing a existing one, Postnet can deliver the compliant ID photo.
Services: copy & print services, courier services, digital services, criminal record checks, mailbox services, stationery products and so forth. For ID photo services, scroll down to “Our Business Administration Services” section and click the red bar “copy & print ” service for more information and it will guide you how to print ID photo.
Pricing: Each PostNet store is individually operated. Products, Services and Pricing may vary. Please contact the one that you are going to beforehand for more details on pricing. You can find a nearby PostNet and its contact at PostNet.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 08:30 – 14:00
Sunday: CLOSED
Public Holidays: 09:00 – 13:00
CVS pharmacy
To get your South Africa ID photo in a quick and convenient way, you can visit CVS pharmacy. With numerous locations worldwide, CVS can provide a hassle-free solution to your passport and ID photo needs. You will get professionally taken photos that meet official requirements. Visit the CVS pharmacy during the opening hours and pick your standard ID photos.
Services: Apart from online printing services and same-day pick-ups, CVS pharmacy provides valid picture checker for official photos, including South African ID photos. CVS ensures that provided photos meet all mandatory parameters set by US State Department.
Pricing: The base fee at CVS pharmacy is $16.99 for two printed copies of the photos. If you need extra services, the price varies based on your service demands.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 21:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
Kodak Express
Kodak Express is another reliable option to print South African ID photo in minutes. This photo processing network provides several services including photo books, digital cameras, gifts, frames and traditional printing.
Services: Kodak Express is equipped with advanced technology that is designed specifically for capturing high-quality images. More importantly, it automatically verifies photo compliance with government criteria for ID.
Pricing: For ID photos, it costs R77.00 for 8 pieces, black and white or in color
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 08.00 – 17.00
Saturday: 09.00 – 13.00
Sunday & P/holidays: CLOSED
The Portrait Studio
The Portrait Studio also can help in taking and printing photos for ID, passport and visa. This photo studio can deliver ID photos that meet standard South Afircan requirements.
Services: photographing, photo printing, canvas printing, studio renting, photo editing, online photo shopping, etc.
Pricing: ID photo service takes R135.00 in the store.
Opening hours:
Monday – Saturday: 09.00 – 17.00
Alternative Ways to Create South African ID Photo
You can consider one of the above-mentioned photo studios to take and print high-quality ID photos near me. Alternatively, you can get a South African ID photo online, without waiting in line. AI-driven ID photo editor such as AiPassportPhotos makes it much easier to create a printable and compliant ID photo template. It supports over 150+ formats and can make standard photo for passport, driving license, visa, ID card and more. Follow these simple steps to create South African ID photo online.
- Go to AiPassportPhotos website and choose South African ID photo type
- Simply upload a photo from your device or take a new photo.
- The AI-backed tool will automatically resize photo to required ID size, change background color and check compliance.
- Download the standard ID photo to your device.
Tips for Taking a Good-looking ID Photo
Having a good ID image will help you build your personal impression. There are some tips for you to look good in ID portrait.
- Take a deep breath to relax your facial expression and body posture before shooting. It would help you present neutral facial expression before a camera. A natural smile is more welcomed than a big, toothy grin for an ID portrait.
- Shoot 15-45 minutes after sunrise or before sunset. These periods are known as the golden hours for a more dynamic look. They are the periods in the day when the light is softer and natural for shooting.
- Dress in clothing that contrasts with the background.
- Use a mirror to check your appearance and adjust your hair and clothing. Make yourself look professional in advance of sitting before a photographing device.
- Set the camera about 3 feet away so your face takes appropriate proportion, 50%~69% of the whole picture.
FAQ
1) Q: Does PostNet take photos?
A: YES. PostNet offers photo taking services with high quality and simple steps.
2) Q: Can you take an ID photo at home?
A: Yes, absolutely. As long as your headshot taken at home meet ID photo specifications, it is acceptable to take your portrait at home. Nevertheless, it is still recommended to follow professional advice or ask assist from image verifying tools.
3) Q: How much is a new ID in SA?
A: It takes R140.00 if you apply an ID for the first time in South Africa. However, it would cost R280.00 for ID renewal in SA. If you need more other supporting services such as personal information updates, the price will also change accordingly.
Conclusion
Generating an image for a South African ID can be as easy as pie. Basic knowledge on ID photo standards in SA, nearby stores to take an ID picture, tips for a good image, and a photo editing tool is a solid recipe for a satisfying ands professional ID photo in SA. If you are ready, get started and have fun in no time!
Erin Lo