Free On-Demand Headshots

McCombs students, faculty, and staff can use the Ford Career Center’s self-service photo booth to take professional-quality headshots in just a few minutes

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Over 700 McCombs faculty, staff, and students have updated their professional headshots using the Ford Career Center’s interactive photo booth since it opened last semester.

Starting Aug. 28, the Ford Career Center will open its headshot photo booth for the fall semester. The booth is available to McCombs students, faculty, and staff anytime during regular career center hours, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no appointment necessary.

The interactive photo booth is set up with well-rounded soft lighting and built-in photo processing to ensure that users can take the most flattering photos possible. Users can preview photos on the spot and reshoot as desired. The photos are available to download instantly via email and add to LinkedIn, personal websites, McCombs Connect profiles, and more. The average session time is less than five minutes.

Whether students are seeking their first professional opportunity or looking to grow their networks, a good, professional headshot can be a valuable asset. A 2022 internal study from LinkedIn showed that profiles with professional headshots were 14 times as likely to be viewed by other users — including potential recruiters — as those who did not. “Having a professional headshot is crucial because it’s often the first impression employers get,” says Morgan Medina, the director of BBA Career Education and Coaching. “A polished, professional image can set you apart and showcase your readiness for the business world,” she says.

Although it can sometimes be time-consuming and costly to arrange a portrait session with a photographer, members of the McCombs community can use the Ford Career Center headshot photo booth free of charge — and sessions take only three minutes on average — allowing students, faculty, and staff to update their headshots and make the best possible first impression. Since the booth was installed in Spring 2024, 705 McCombs community members have used it to update their headshots.

To use the photo booth, visit the Ford Career Center (GSB 4.114, across from the fourth-floor elevator) from Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The booth is available on a walk-in basis with no appointment required.

Story by Amanda Waxman