On Wednesday, July 22, more than 200 professional photographers will be taking free headshots for people around the country who are out of work as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The initiative will create 10,000 headshots in every state in the country, providing a crucial service to those in the job market who use platforms like LinkedIn or personal websites.

The 10,000 Headshots project was created by photographers Tony Taafe, Peter Hurley, and Lauren Lieberman. Together, they are the founders of Headshot Booker, a booking agency. Commercial real estate company Brookfield Properties will be providing locations for the shoots, and local photographers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., are volunteering their time to create the photos.

New York City’s Rob Feiner, of RZF Images, is one of the participating photographers. “Our community, like so many others, was hit hard by COVID-19 and we were looking for ways to help our neighbors get back on their feet,” he said, noting that, according to LinkedIn, people who include headshots on their profile receive 21 times more profile views and 9 times more connection requests.

Headshots are also critical to a successful freelance portfolio site and social media presence. When you're building your business online, it’s important to give potential clients as much information about yourself as possible. A well-written bio can convey your personality and experience, but without a headshot, it’s hard to inspire that personal connection that is the key to getting the gig.

To be eligible for this free service, you need only to have lost work due to the COVID-19 pandemic and currently be looking for work.

These free headshots sessions can be booked online now. Find the one closest to you and book your 10-minute session by Tuesday, July 21, to take advantage of this special one-day program. Finished headshots will be made available for download for free from photo sharing site SpotMyPhotos.