example at a main entry portal of a facility where it is desired to control access by personnel an image capture device 14 typically a conveniently mounted digital camera is used to capture a digital image of a visitor or other individual for whom it is desired to provide temporary access to the facility the image data file of the captured image is transferred to and stored in a database 17 of computer 16 computer 16 is also used to enter and store in association with the image data file the visiting or temporary individual 39 s name date and length of visit or any other visitor identifying information such as driver 39 s license number social security number and the like which is required the computer 16 is also used to associate an authorized access code with the individual 39 s other stored data this authorized access code is a unique identifier which operates much like the very familiar personal identification number pin used by the bearer of a transaction card to activate the card any unique numeric or alphanumeric code may be used for the access code in the present invention however when a reader at a control gate which is programmed to recognize the authorized access code is engaged with a badge containing the.