A better passport photo isn't magic, but it does take effort

Passport HorrorErma Bombeck once wrote, "when you start to look like your passport photo, it's time to go home."

In my last driver's license photo, I looked a little like Charles Manson with a Dorothy Hamill bob. Well, maybe not that bad, but I cringed every time someone asked for it. "Is that really you???"

It is possible to get a decent passport photo though.

• Even though you'll be asked to wipe all the joy from your face.
• Even if you're smiling because you're going on a vacation.
• Even though you haven't stopped smiling since you booked your vacation.

Want to know how to get a passport photo that doesn't look like a mug shot? Try these suggestions:

1. Go for simplicity: Stay away from tops that have a bold pattern. Stick with a color you know you look good in - even if you opt for a black and white shot.

2. Choose a style that looks good on you: A turtleneck will hide that tricky spot under your chin, but a crewneck can give your neck length.

3. Close your mouth: Toothy smiles are prohibited anyway. Combat the joyless expression by opening your eyes as wide as possible and keeping your chin up (which makes you look thinner).

4. Wear makeup: It may sound like a no-brainer but wearing makeup will make you look younger, healthier and less like a criminal. It's all about definition, baby.

• Define your lips with a natural lip color, but pass on the gloss.
• Wear eyeliner (heavier at the outside of your eyes) to make your eyes look bigger.
• Swipe on some blush. Even if you don't normally wear any.
• Use a matte base to cut down on the wash-out effect.

Voila. No more cringing when you hand over your passport to security.

Do you have any passport photo tips? Share them with us!