I love it when I find websites whose sole purpose is to make my life easier.  Like Handipoints, for example.

My children still do not have passports.  We haven’t been out of the country in several years, and even then Canada didn’t require anything from you, other than your sparkling smile.  Okay the didn’t even require that from you.  Just drive across the border.  I think we always had our birth certificates on hand, but I don’t ever remember having to use them.  Ah, life in the pre 9-11 world.

I have been thinking that I want to get the kids passports.  Mostly because they cost so much money and the couple times we have thought about trips the additional cost made it a pretty daunting.  Let’s not even mention the hassle of applying for the passport now that both parents have to be present.  And the photos?  With all those requirements?  Egads.

Last week I came across this website, PasPic

 Paspic is the online solution for all passport size photographs, just like a regular photobooth.
However, all new passport photos now need to include unique, measurable physical characteristics (biometrics) which enable facial recognition technology to prevent fraud.
Paspic.com’s automated platform will advise you whether your photos are compliant with the new standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)or provide information as to why the photo may be rejected by the UK, EU or US Passport Office Authorities.*

Being able to take the photos at home instead of going somewhere is also a bonus when you are dealing with children. Because unfortunately photos of crying children are not acceptable.  Though they should be.  Lord knows little kids are more likely to look like that during a long journey.

Follow their directions for taking a photo.  Upload the photo to their website.  They will check it for compliance and then mail you the photos you need.  If you have ever needed a gazillion identical photos for a travel visa you will appreciate this also.