JCPenney To Give Free Headshots To Thousands On The Job Hunt

ORLAND PARK, IL — In an effort to support those on the job hunt, retail chain JCPenney has launched a program designed to provide free professional headshots.

Beginning on Jan. 10, JCPenney will offer free professional photos at their locations with portrait studios, including Orland Park, Mokena, and Joliet. The headshots are available only to the first 3,000 people who sign up before Feb. 7, JCPenney said in a release.

Nearby studios are located at:

• 3 Orland Sq. Dr., Orland Park
• 11325 W. Lincoln Hwy, Mokena
• 3340 Mall Loop Drive Space 2, Joliet

JCPenney believes that everyone deserves the chance to pursue the career of their dreams. Professional headshots are a central part of the 21st-century job search, critical for remote work, the company said in a release, and especially valuable when overcoming resume gaps or joining the workforce for the first time. But often, they can also be cost-prohibitive and difficult to access.

"At JCPenney, we are committed to serving America’s diverse, working families. Snapshot for Success is one way we’re standing with our communities to help make the most of every customer’s career moments," said Andre Joyner, chief human resources officer at JCPenney. "Whether you’re graduating this Spring, overcoming a resume gap after stepping away from your career or looking for your next role, we want to be a part of this exciting stage of your life and career."

The Snapshot for Success offer started Jan. 10. Customers will first need to sign up to receive their offer code on the JCPenney website. Registration will remain open until Feb. 7, or until all the 3,000 headshots are claimed. Free headshot sessions should be scheduled by March 11, at a participating JCPenney Portrait Studio location. Sessions must be booked through the JCPenney Portraits by Lifetouch website and customers must present their coupon at checkout to be redeemed.

"Through our Make It Count promise, JCPenney is committed to matching the efforts of our customers as they work to make every moment count," said Katie Mullen, chief customer officer at JCPenney. "Shoppers already know they can rely on JCPenney for everything they need to land their dream role, but through services like JCPenney Portraits we’re uniquely able to equip them with an accessible, professional headshot."

JCPenney touts itself as a one-stop shop for the job force, "from the perfect interview suit to scrubs, work boots and made-to-last denim."

The retailer has a history of investing in job readiness programs including Suit Up events, in which the retailer partners with colleges and universities across the country to host nearly 500 events per year to help students purchase work-ready wardrobes at a 30% discount. In addition to a discount, the in-store team advises students on the latest career fashion trends, how a suit should fit, what size is best for them, how to tie a tie, and more. In 2024, there are already over 200 Suit Up events scheduled at JCPenney stores across the country between January and April.