Hair
The work that starts with what's on your head.
Hair modelling is a distinct category with its own requirements and its own rhythm of work.
The shoots range from salon portfolio work (where a hairdresser documents a colour treatment, cut, or style for their portfolio or social media) through to brand campaigns for haircare manufacturers and editorial hair features in fashion and lifestyle publications.
You need hair that photographs well and that a stylist can work with freely. For colour work, natural hair that takes colour cleanly matters. For cutting and styling, length and texture are relevant depending on the brief. For editorial hair, dramatic, high-volume, or otherwise distinctive hair is often specifically sought.
Hair modelling is also distinct in what happens to you during the shoot. Depending on the job, you may spend two to six hours in a chair while a stylist works on your hair. That process is the job, not just the preparation. Sitting comfortably for extended periods while remaining engaged and communicative with the team is part of the professional skill set.
Remuneration in this category varies significantly. Salon portfolio work is often time-for-time: you allow them to use your images, they do your hair. Brand and editorial hair work is paid commercial work. Understand what you are being offered before you agree.
A strong hair portfolio shows technically well-lit images where your hair is the undeniable focal point, variety across at least two looks or treatments, and some evidence of versatility.
