A computing device stores an acquired image as a transient image template when there is a failure in an image-based authentication of the acquired image and the user of the computing device has provided user credentials that authorize the user to access the computing device. The transient image template may be used to further authorize the user to access the computing device during a predetermined time period. At the expiration of the predetermined time period, the computing device deletes the transient image template. The computing device then reverts to using a baseline image template for performing image-based authentication of the user. The transient image template may also be associated with a location such that the computing device uses the transient image template for image-based authentication when the computing device is at or near the location.