By Joe Van Allen
Looking to update your LinkedIn profile picture or bring some added professionalism to your e-mails? UMass Amherst now has an Iris Photo Booth, which lets you update your headshot with the same quality of a professional photographer, but on your schedule (and for free!).
What is the Iris Photo Booth?
The Iris Photo Booth is a feature of the Career Hub's office in Goodell that lets you have a professional picture taken by you! The booth is a fully automated system that provides you with ample lighting, a high quality camera, and even suggestions for how to pose. Once you take your pictures, you will receive a link in your e-mail that lets you edit them to suit your professional needs.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Book your photo session is simple:
- Log into Handshake and select Career Hub Photo Booth as your appointment type under your career center home page.
- Pick a date and time that works with your schedule.
- Fill out your information and then click submit.
Once you've booked your appointment, visit the Goodell Career Hub (located in Goodell 563) during your appointment time slot and you'll be good to go.
What do I need for my appointment?
Bring your most professional self - that's it! A member of the career staff will help you get set up with booth and answer questions you have. Here are some quick tips to help you get a great headshot.
- Be Punctual: Appointment blocks are for 15 minutes which is more than enough time to use the Iris Photo Booth. However, you'll want to be on time to do any prep before your picture (check a mirror, change clothes, etc.)
- Dress the Part: Your headshot is going to be your first impression in many digital settings. Solid colors will help you stand out - avoid busy patterns that distract in a negative way. Don't worry about going out and buying an expensive outfit - an ironed shirt, a well-fitting blazer (even if it's borrowed), or a simple dress can go a long way in looking professional.
- Body Language Matters!: The photo booth will let you take three pictures, and give you advice in between each, so make sure you use those pictures well. A strong posture and a natural smile will help you exude confidence.
Why should I have a professional picture?
More and more, your professional self will exist in physical and digital places. Your digital presence, whether it's your LinkedIn or Handshake profile, your profile picture on your e-mail address, or your professional social media accounts, should reflect the professionalism you bring along with your physical presence. And while including a picture is not common in most applications within the United States, a picture is common in some other countries' application materials.
Your picture will be a part of your first impression for future employers, networking opportunities, and colleagues. You will have a chance to show the friendly, engaging person that you know you are but can be hard to present in a resume or e-mail.
Where is the booth?
The booth is located in Goodell Hall/Goodell Building, Fifth Floor, Room 563. If you enter Goodell through the columned entrance, take a few steps forward and look to your left. Our suite will be the double doors to the left before you enter the atrium.
I'm a part of a student organization. Can we use the photo booth as a group?
The photo booth booking process is typically appointment-based for individual students. To book as a student group or department, fill out the Career Hub Photo Booth Request Form and Career Services will follow up with you.
Who can I contact if I have issues?
Reach out to Career Services at @email if you have any issues booking an appointment or have any other questions.
Joe Van Allen is the Senior Data Analyst and Associate Director of Communications at the UMass Amherst Career Development and Professional Connections Hub. He's passionate about connecting students with opportunities that showcase their skills, and bridging the gaps between what someone wants to do and their current experience. And spreadsheets - he can't get enough of spreadsheets.