UNC Pembroke Launches State-of-the-Art Iris Air Photo Booth
UNC Pembroke’s Career Center is taking professionalism to the next level with the arrival of a state-of-the-art Iris Air Photo Booth.
Iris Air Photo Booth is a cutting-edge, self-service studio designed to help students — and the entire campus community — capture professional-quality headshots in minutes.
Housed in the Career Center lobby, the photo booth is the latest addition to UNCP’s growing portfolio of career readiness resources, joining services such as résumé reviews, mock interviews and the professional clothing closet.
“This technology is about professionalism — a skill we strive to build in every student,” said Career Center Director Jimarr Williams. “In today’s digital age, your LinkedIn profile is essentially your online résumé. A professional headshot helps students make a great first impression, builds confidence and supports their personal brand.”
The new resource – made possible through a partnership with the University Communications and Marketing Office and a generous sponsorship from Enterprise – will allow students to take free, self-service professional headshots in minutes, helping them elevate their digital presence as they prepare to enter the workforce.
“We’re proud to partner with the Career Center to give our students access to a professional resource that supports their success,” said Jennifer McCarrel, vice chancellor for University Communications and Marketing. “At UNC Pembroke, we’re committed to helping every Brave go beyond the classroom, building the confidence, skills and experiences that prepare them for what’s next.”
Williams said the Iris Air model was selected for its versatility, speed and advanced technology. Standing four feet tall, the booth features professional lighting, guided photo prompts and instant delivery directly to students’ university email addresses.
“Students can walk in, follow on-screen instructions and have a polished headshot ready within minutes,” Williams said. “The system adjusts lighting, gives positioning feedback and even allows users to retake photos until they’re satisfied with the final result.”
No appointments are required — students can use the photobooth on a walk-in basis between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Career Center is located on the second floor the Chavis Student Center.
“The photo booth is going to be a major hit,” Williams said. “It complements our professional clothing closet and we’re already planning special ‘Headshot Day’ events around graduation and career fairs. The fact that it’s mobile means we can take it to other parts of campus for pop-ups and open houses.”
For many students, access to a professional-quality headshot can help remove financial barriers and level the playing field in terms of career readiness.
“This is a free service to students,” Williams said. “Not everyone can afford professional photography, and this gives every student the chance to build their portfolio with confidence. We’re giving our students the same opportunities as those at much larger universities.”