In the age of LinkedIn, online job applications, social media, internet networking, and particularly in the entertainment industry, a high quality headshot can mean the difference between having a job or being unemployed. But for those who have recently come home from a period of incarceration, a lack of financial means and resources can make this service unattainable.
Bromont Program decided to meet this need by hosting a day-long, free headshot clinic for our members. We provided professional hair and makeup, styling consultations, refreshments, and a team of two professional photographers to shoot industry-standard images.
Bromont Program gives system impacted youth and adults a pathway into the creative side of the film industry, allowing them to benefit from the transformative power of telling their stories through screenwriting, the catharsis one gets from acting, while also using the films that they create to change the way the world views the formerly incarcerated.
There's a lot of stigma that comes with being formerly incarcerated, and there is typically a history of trauma and disadvantage that leads up to the incarceration. This clinic was a way for members to see themselves as working professionals, inside an industry that typically portrays them only as monsters. Many of our members are just starting their lives over, so this was a roadblock removed for them.
Here are just a few of the professional headshots we were able to provide for our members:
"This was an incredible experience. It was so much fun and I felt like a star or a model for real. I can use these shots now to submit to agencies, go to castings, or even for my online resume."
Through continued support from the film community, volunteers, and generous donors, Bromont Program can continue to provide housing, training, resources, mentorship and specialized training. A follow-up workshop is in the works with involvement from one of LA's top talent agencies, where these members will receive further guidance on how to start a career in the entertainment industry. Also being hosted this month is a screenwriters workshop where we will be joined by a representative from our sponsor, Final Draft!
For more information on how you can become involved, or to donate to the upcoming member housing fund, please browse our sit and visit our crowdfunding page.
Special thanks to:
Nicole Barton of Nicole Barton Photography
Dylan of Dylan Pierce Photography
David Rosales of Luxe House Media
Shaina Paulson (Hair and Makeup Artist)
Wannisha Harris (Hair and Makeup Artist)
Bishop Donnie Williams of The Family Church International
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