I went to my local post office, got photos at CVS before hand because it was cheaper. It helped to have an appointment at the post office when i turned in my application. I get my passport very quickly this way.
These days it has become a lengthier process (post 9–11). One option noone mentioned here was using a passport expediting service. Here is one to consider: http://www.casto.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13&Itemid=30