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How you can get a free headshot to help your job search

10,000 headshots initiative helping unemployed Virginians get free headshots
Posted at 1:46 PM, Jul 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-21 17:48:11-04

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Its been said, a picture is worth a thousand words and one group of photographers across the country is getting ready to take thousands of photos for unemployed workers, who lost their jobs during the CVOID-19 pandemic.

"One of my photographers and mentors on the site, his name is Tony Taafe, and said how are we going to help," said Peter Hurley, NYC Photographer and co- founder of Headshot Booker.

"We have to help people somehow. There's so many unemployed people in the country right now that need headshots. They need to look good for their resumes going out. "

Hurley says his team on his website Headshot Crew, began brainstorming and the idea of 10,000 headshots was born.

"We're doing it across 50 states. We figured we need a minimum of 200 photographers to shoot 50 people and we decided to do it in one day," said Hurley. " We're going to have to come together as a country. And we're going to have to get back to work. And I think things like this, this is the little thing that we as headshot photographers at Headshot Crew can do to give back. And it just feels good."

Normally, headshots cost more than $200, but this initiative is for free.

With the challenge, the crew reached out to Brookfield Properties to house the photoshoots across the country. And one location is right in Short Pump Mall. That's where local photographer, Emily Alwood with Emmie Clarie Photography will be participating.

"I'm looking forward to meeting and connecting with people. I'm excited to hear about where they are in their journey, with getting a job and maybe how they lost a job and how I can help them," said Alwood.

For those who would like to participate, you will need to sign up before showing up, as space is limited. Alwood will be taking photos from 11:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22.

"If you're coming tomorrow, It is still required to wear a mask up until the point where you get your photo taken of course. And we are still practicing social distancing, so there will be a check in spot for you and there will be plenty of signage for you to figure out where to go in the mall up in Short pump," said Alwood.

Virginia Together: The Rebound Richmond campaign is here to help. Find information on who is hiring, investigations into unemployment payment issues, financial advice on making ends meet, and mental health advice on managing the pressures. These stories will be featured often on CBS 6 News and can be found by clicking this link.