Technology has come a long way when it comes to making a picture ID. Machines are common now, but until printers, digital cameras and computers became commonplace, photo ID cards were made and laminated by hand. First, the card maker would put the information on a blank card template – either using a typewriter, word processor, or by hand (before digital cameras became commonplace, some operators would also type information into the fields on a computer, then print out the template). Next, the card holder’s picture would be taken, usually with an instant ID camera like a Polaroid. The portrait would be cut out to the size of the photo field on the card template, and glued down. Finally, the ID card would be laminated with a special machine to ensure durability and prevent tampering.