04/26/16 cypm/kb/cu
HAYS, Kan. -- Trying to pass off a selfie as your business professional headshot or trying to get your son motivated for his senior pictures is why the Fort Hays State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America will host a headshot fundraiser during the Hays Arts Council's Spring Art Walk from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 29, at Sweet Zoo, 115 W. Eighth.

"This inaugural fundraiser for the chapter wants to make it quick, easy and affordable for community members to take those photos that they've been meaning to get," said Sophia Young, president of the FHSU Chapter of PRSSA.

The cost is $10 for two headshots and $20 for two headshots and two poses. Photos with multiple people, such as a family portrait, will cost $20.

Individuals may choose from a gray or wood panel backdrop.

Businesses are also invited to stop by and take photos of their employees for occasions such as employee of the month or to use in newsletters and directories.

Paige Thompson, a senior art education major at FHSU, is the photographer. Thompson also owns her own photography business in Hays.

PRSSA, a new student organization at FHSU, is raising funds to help bring speakers to campus and provide conference registrations that will help in developing the chapter.

"The FHSU chapter is a new local chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America, which is part of the world's largest organization of public relations professionals," said Young. "Having a local chapter of PRSSA in Hays is beneficial to other local organizations and businesses. With enough community support, we will be able to establish a student-run firm that can offer PR assistance, such as crisis communication plans and campaign plans, at little to no cost."

Currently students are working on campaign plans for the Chamber of Commerce, the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Hays Regional Airport.

The idea for this event came to Young after some unsuccessful attempts of taking professional photos of herself.

"Over a year ago as I was applying for an internship with a large company in Kansas City, I needed a professional-looking photo for my LinkedIn account and online portfolio. I spent an embarrassing amount of time dressing up and taking selfies just to try and get that one perfect business professional-looking photo that I could use. I ended up unsatisfied with all of them. The lighting was never good, and the angles were bad," she said.

If businesses or individuals are unable to make it on the date of the event, the chapter is also setting up appointments during the week of Monday, May 2. Anyone can set up an appointment for their photos. Other dates and times are available by contacting Young at 913-526-9401 or at sryoung4@mail.fhsu.edu.

Search "Headshot Fundraiser for FHSU PRSSA" on Facebook for more details.