If you‘re a Costco member preparing for international travel, you may be wondering: can I still get my passport photos taken at Costco? In the past, the popular warehouse club was a go-to choice for many shoppers looking to check this errand off their list while stocking up on bulk groceries and household essentials. However, as of February 14, 2021, Costco made the decision to permanently close all photo centers in its U.S. stores, discontinuing passport photos and other photo services.
This announcement took many loyal Costco customers by surprise – especially those who had come to rely on the retailer‘s affordable and convenient passport photo service. To understand the context behind this change and what it means for consumers today, let‘s take a closer look at Costco‘s photo service history, the changing retail landscape, and where you can get passport photos now that Costco is no longer an option.
The Rise and Fall of Costco Photo Centers
Costco first began offering photo printing services in 1997 following the acquisition of a photo lab company. Over the years, the retailer expanded its photo department capabilities, and by the early 2000s, getting passport photos taken at Costco had become a popular choice for many shoppers. The retailer charged $4.99 for a set of four passport photos, which was significantly cheaper than many drug stores and post offices at the time.
However, in the late 2010s, demand for in-store photo services began to dwindle. The rise of smartphone cameras and social media made printing photos less of a necessity for the average consumer. One market research report found that the total number of physical photo prints processed in the U.S. declined by over 50% between 2014 and 2019. Costco felt the impact of this industry-wide shift and began closing some of its less busy photo centers as early as 2019 before ultimately deciding to shutter them all in 2021.
"Since the introduction of camera phones and social media, the need for printing photos has steeply declined, even though the number of pictures taken continues to grow," Costco explained in a statement on the photo center closures. "After careful consideration, we have determined the continued decline of prints no longer requires on-site photo printing."
How Costco‘s Photo Service Shutdown Reflects a Changing Retail Landscape
Costco‘s decision to close its photo centers is just one example of how the retail giant is adapting to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry. Known for its "treasure hunt" shopping experience, Costco has long relied on impulse purchases to drive sales. However, as more consumers embrace online shopping, the company has had to rethink its strategy.
"Costco needs to figure out how to get more out of its existing members," said Timothy Campbell, a retail analyst at Kantar. "It‘s not just about driving traffic to the stores anymore. It‘s about increasing the value of each member."
To that end, Costco has been investing heavily in its e-commerce capabilities in recent years. The company‘s online sales grew by 50% year-over-year in 2020, driven in part by the COVID-19 pandemic. Costco has also been expanding its selection of online-only products and services, such as prescription glasses and hearing aids.
At the same time, Costco is doubling down on the product categories that are most profitable for its business model. The company is known for its low margins and relies on high sales volume to generate profits. By eliminating less popular services like photo printing and focusing on core categories like groceries, home goods, and appliances, Costco can optimize its inventory and keep prices low for shoppers.
Where to Get Passport Photos Now That Costco Isn‘t an Option
While the loss of Costco‘s photo centers may be disappointing for some consumers, there are still plenty of convenient and affordable options for getting passport photos. Most national drug store chains, including Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid, offer passport photo services at select locations. You can also get passport photos taken at many FedEx Office and UPS Store locations, as well as at some United States Postal Service (USPS) offices.
When comparing prices, expect to pay around $15 for a set of two passport photos at most retail locations. However, you may be able to find discounts or promotions from time to time. For example, AAA members can get a free set of passport photos at any AAA branch location.
If you have a good quality photo printer at home, you can also save money by taking and printing your own passport photos. The U.S. Department of State has specific guidelines for passport photo composition, including size, background, and lighting requirements. You can find a full list of passport photo criteria on the Department of State website.
Here are some tips to keep in mind if you go the DIY route for passport photos:
- Use a plain white or off-white background
- Make sure your face is fully visible and centered in the frame
- Keep a neutral facial expression with both eyes open
- Avoid wearing glasses, hats, or other accessories that obscure your face
- Print the photo on high quality photo paper using a color printer
- Make sure the printed photo measures 2 x 2 inches with your head between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head
Of course, a passport photo is just one piece of the application puzzle. If you‘re applying for a new passport or renewing an expired passport, here‘s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Fill out the appropriate application form (DS-11 for new passports, DS-82 for renewals)
- Gather required documentation, including proof of citizenship and a valid photo ID
- Get a new passport photo taken if your appearance has significantly changed
- Calculate the applicable fees based on the type of passport you need (book vs. card)
- Submit your application, supporting documents, photo, and fees in person or by mail
- Wait for processing (4-6 weeks for routine service, 2-3 weeks for expedited)
Passport processing times have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing shortages, so it‘s a good idea to build in extra buffer time if you have upcoming travel plans. The State Department provides estimated processing times on its website, but these are subject to change based on application volume and other factors.
The Psychology Behind Costco‘s Popularity
While Costco may have discontinued its passport photo service, the retailer still holds a special place in the hearts of many shoppers. Costco has cultivated an extremely loyal customer base over the years, with a 90% membership renewal rate in the U.S. as of 2021.
So what is it about Costco that inspires such devotion? Retail psychology experts point to a few key factors:
- The thrill of finding a great deal: Costco is known for its low prices on bulk items, which activates the "treasure hunt" mentality in shoppers. The satisfaction of scoring a bargain can be a powerful motivator.
- A sense of belonging: Costco‘s membership model creates an exclusive, "club" feeling for shoppers. Paying for the privilege of shopping at Costco enhances customers‘ investment in the brand.
- Consistency and reliability: Costco rarely changes its store layout and consistently stocks the same high quality merchandise, which appeals to shoppers who value a predictable retail experience.
- Focus on customer service: Costco is known for its generous return policy and responsive customer service, which builds trust and loyalty over time.
Interestingly, Costco‘s decision to eliminate its photo centers plays into some of these psychological factors as well. By focusing on the product categories that are most essential to its business model, Costco is doubling down on its reputation for consistency and reliability. And by investing in e-commerce and other digital capabilities, the company is finding new ways to offer value and convenience to its members.
Conclusion
Costco‘s decision to close its photo centers may have been an inconvenience for shoppers who relied on the retailer for affordable passport photos. However, it reflects broader shifts in consumer behavior and the retail industry as a whole. As more consumers embrace digital photography and online shopping, retailers like Costco must adapt to stay relevant and competitive.
If you‘re in need of passport photos, there are still plenty of options available at other retailers, as well as the option to take your own photos at home. The key is to make sure your photos meet all the necessary requirements and to submit your application well in advance of any travel plans.
As for Costco, the retailer‘s popularity is unlikely to wane anytime soon, thanks to its strong value proposition and loyal customer base. By focusing on what it does best and investing in new growth areas, Costco is well-positioned to maintain its status as a retail industry leader for years to come.
