Portraits with Purpose: Uplifting CDC Workers After Layoffs

When I offered free headshots to CDC employees impacted by mass layoffs, I thought a few people might respond. Over 120 did—and the requests are still coming.

Professional headshots help people show up with confidence as they apply for new jobs. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference—and I want to keep offering this complimentary service throughout the summer to everyone who needs it.

Each session includes:

A 10-minute professional portrait session

Light retouching

A downloadable gallery of images

This GoFundMe will help cover:

Where Your Support Goes

Your donation helps provide complimentary professional headshots for displaced CDC employees—and helps us grow this effort to reach even more people. Every dollar helps restore dignity, visibility, and confidence during a time of transition.

Cost Breakdown:

Studio space & location rentals** $3,000–$4,000

Photographer assistants (event support) $1,200–$1,800

Equipment upkeep & lighting gear $1,000

Editing time (100+ sessions) $3,000

Scheduling platform & admin tools $500

Travel & setup expenses $800

Total Goal $10,000

* While we currently have a few generous offers of commercial space, ongoing access will likely require paid rentals as demand grows.

If you’ve ever been laid off, you know how hard it can be to feel seen. This is about restoring dignity, visibility, and hope—one portrait at a time.

Please consider donating and sharing. Every bit helps.

Thank you,

Michele Noma

Photographer | Founder, Michele Noma + Co. Photography