With staggering unemployment rates because of the coronavirus, a local photographer will be using his profession to help people get back into the work field.
Richard Maguire is a lifelong Spokane resident who started his own photography business last year. A few weeks ago he heard about a project called 10,000 Headshots, a nationwide effort calling on photographers to help out people who are unemployed by providing a professional headshot for free.
Maguire decided it was a perfect way for him to help out his community.
“I've been taking pictures all my life,” said Maguire.
On Wednesday, July 22nd Maguire will have a space inside the Spokane Valley Mall to photograph 50 people. That same day throughout the country, the same thing will take place in all 50 states for a collective total of 10,000 free photos.
For those that want to get their headshot taken, they can set up an appointment on 10,000 Headshot's website, and select Washington from the list of states available. From there, participants will be able to set up a time for an appointment with Maguire at the Spokane Valley Mall.
After that, participants will be provided with tips on what kind of professional attire they should wear before having their picture taken.
“I’m sure headshots are only a little slice of the pie for getting a job,” Maguire explained. “On LinkedIn, having a decent, professional-looking shot really does help.”
Slots are first come first serve and social distancing guidelines will be in place to make it a safe environment.
The whole process will only take about 10 minutes but masks must be worn until the moment you’re ready for photos.
“We’re going to bring all the lighting gear here that’s professional. Folks will come in and it’s all a no-touch zone so they don’t have to write anything down. It’s all done online and we’ll give them a great professional headshot that they can use the same day.”
The 10,000 Headshots project is the largest single-day initiative in the country. Alongside the pictures, training on how to use job sites like LinkedIn will also be available.
“I hope I hear back from somebody if they score work on this,” Maguire exclaimed. “Especially in this season, where I know there are employers out there looking for skilled workers, but it’s a rough time.”
