AESMP Portal: Your Gateway to Army Visual Information Services
Quick Summary
- VIOS services moved to AESMP.
- CAC is essential for access.
- Request official Army photography.
- Manage various media requests.
The Visual Information Ordering System (VIOS) was a crucial online tool for military personnel to request various media services. However, as of October 1, 2025, the legacy VIOS platform officially transitioned. All visual information ordering and related services are now managed through the Army Enterprise Service Management Portal (AESMP). This modern digital portal streamlines requests for official photography, graphic design, videography, and audiovisual equipment for the U.S. Army. AESMP serves as the central hub for Department of Defense (DoD) ID card holders to access a wide range of visual information support. It ensures that commanders and units have the visual assets needed for tactical decision-making, strategic planning, and public communication. Whether you need a Department of the Army (DA) photo, event coverage, or a graphic for a presentation, the AESMP portal is your official gateway to these essential services. This guide will walk you through how to use the AESMP for your visual information needs, ensuring you can efficiently submit requests and manage your account within the new system.
- 📋 What You Need to Access Army Visual Information Services
- 📍 Accessing Your Army Visual Information Account
- ⭐ Services Available Through the Army's Visual Information Platform
- ⚠️ Addressing Access Difficulties for Visual Information Services
- 🔒 Ensuring Data Security on the Army's Service Management Platform
- 🎧 Official Help Desk Contacts
- ❓ Top Questions Regarding Army Visual Information Services
What You Need to Access Army Visual Information Services
- You must possess valid CAC credentials (Common Access Card) to log in and utilize the AESMP portal. This smart card acts as your digital identification for secure access to government systems.
- Access to a computer with a CAC reader and the necessary middleware installed to authenticate your card. Ensure your browser is compatible with the CAC login process.
Accessing Your Army Visual Information Account
- Open your web browser and navigate to the official Army Enterprise Service Management Portal at https://www.aesmp.army.mil.
- Insert your CAC into your card reader when prompted. You will be asked to enter your CAC PIN to authenticate your identity.
- Once logged in, look for the 'Get Something' option on the main page. This is your starting point for service requests.
- From the categories listed on the left, select 'Visual Information Ordering System (VIOS) Services'. This will direct you to the specific visual information request forms.
- Choose the type of service you need, such as 'VIOS Photography' for official photos or 'VIOS Graphic Design and Production' for graphics.
- Fill out all required information on the request form, including your contact details, physical location, and specifics about your request. Be sure to provide clear justification for your needs.
- Follow any additional prompts to confirm your selection and submit your work request.
Services Available Through the Army's Visual Information Platform
- Photography Services: Request official Department of the Army (DA) photos, command photos, event coverage, and portrait sessions. You can often select a specific studio and schedule appointments directly through the platform.
- Graphic Design and Production: Order custom graphics, presentations, briefing charts, and flyers tailored to your specific project needs.
- Videography and Audio Production: Request support for podcasts, video productions, and audiovisual documentation of significant events.
- Audiovisual Equipment Loans: Secure temporary use of audiovisual equipment for official Army functions and presentations.
- Work Order Management: Submit and track the status of your visual information requests from initiation to completion within your digital portal account.
- Appointment Scheduling: Schedule and manage your appointments for studio photography or other services, with the ability to see available dates and times.
Addressing Access Difficulties for Visual Information Services
⚠️ Cannot access the portal or receive an SSL error
Cause: This often occurs when trying to access an outdated VIOS link or due to CAC reader/browser configuration issues. The legacy VIOS site has been sunset.
Solution: Always use the official AESMP URL: https://www.aesmp.army.mil. Ensure your CAC reader is properly installed and your CAC card is inserted correctly. Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try a different browser. If the issue persists, contact your local IT support or the Visual Information (VI) office for assistance with your CAC or system setup.
⚠️ Need to reschedule or cancel an appointment
Cause: Changes in schedule or circumstances require adjusting a previously booked visual information service.
Solution: Contact the Visual Information (VI) office or the photo studio where you made the appointment as soon as possible. Many locations require supervisors to reschedule missed appointments. Some portals might allow direct cancellation; check your submitted work order details on AESMP.
⚠️ Unsure if a work request is approved
Cause: A user submits a request and is waiting for confirmation.
Solution: When you submit a work request through AESMP, the VI office reviews your justification. If your request meets Army regulations, it proceeds without a separate 'approval' notification. You will only be notified if your request is canceled. If you do not receive a cancellation, your work request is generally considered approved for processing.
Ensuring Data Security on the Army's Service Management Platform
- 🔒 Always access the AESMP portal directly through its official `.mil` domain: https://www.aesmp.army.mil. This ensures you are on a secure, authorized government website.
- 🔒 Verify the website uses HTTPS (indicated by a lock icon in your browser's address bar) before entering any information, confirming a secure connection.
- 🔒 Protect your CAC and CAC PIN at all times. Never share your PIN or leave your CAC unattended in a reader. Your CAC is your primary security credential for the platform.
- 🔒 Be cautious of unsolicited emails or links claiming to be from 'VIOS' or 'AESMP'. Always navigate to the portal by typing the official URL directly into your browser.
🎧 Official Support & Help Center
For specific questions or assistance with your visual information requests, contact your local Visual Information (VI) office or Visual Information Support Center (VISC). Many garrisons have local phone numbers and email addresses for direct support. For example, for Fort Riley, you can call 785-239-2479. For Stuttgart, you can email [email protected]. Check your installation's official website for their specific VI office contact details.
Top Questions Regarding Army Visual Information Services
Q: How do I make an appointment for an official Army photo?
You can schedule official Army photos, such as DA Photos or Command Photos, through the Army Enterprise Service Management Portal (AESMP). After logging in with your CAC, select 'Get Something,' then 'Visual Information Ordering System (VIOS) Services,' and choose the photography option. You will then be able to select your studio, date, and time. Always plan ahead, as appointments may be booked weeks in advance.
Q: What services can I request through the Army's Visual Information portal?
The AESMP portal, formerly VIOS, allows you to request a variety of visual information services. These include photography (DA photos, event coverage), graphic design and production (briefing charts, flyers), videography and audio production (podcasts, videos), and audiovisual equipment loans.
Q: Do I have to pay for Visual Information support?
No, Visual Information support for official Army purposes provided through the AESMP portal is generally free of charge.
Q: What if I need to transfer my VIOS account to a new installation?
If you are transferring installations, you typically need to update your location within the system. For specific instructions on how to transfer your account, you might need to select 'My Profile' and find an option like 'Permanently Transfer My VIOS Account' within the portal, then choose your new installation. If you encounter issues, contact the Visual Information Support Center (VISC) at your new duty station.
Q: Is the VIOS website still active?
No, the legacy VIOS website officially sunset on October 1, 2025. All visual information services and requests are now handled by the Army Enterprise Service Management Portal (AESMP). While some old links might redirect, the correct and active platform is AESMP.
Wrap Up
The transition from VIOS to the Army Enterprise Service Management Portal (AESMP) marks a significant step in modernizing how the U.S. Army manages its visual information needs. This robust online account management system provides a secure and centralized platform for military personnel to request and manage a wide array of media services. By understanding its functions and security measures, you can efficiently leverage AESMP to obtain the visual support essential for operations, communications, and official records.