If you’re gearing up for a photoshoot, whether it’s for a professional headshot or a fashion shoot, one important aspect to consider is your hair. Your hairstyle can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your photos. Finding the right hairdo that complements your outfit, makeup, and theme of the shoot can make a big difference.

Read on to discover some tips and ideas on how to have your hair styled for a photoshoot. You’ll soon be confidently stepping in front of the camera and capturing stunning images that will nail the brief.

Whether you’re a seasoned model or someone who’s new to being in front of the lens, read on for some hair inspiration for your upcoming photoshoot!

Do I Need to Style My Own Hair for Photoshoots?

Firstly, don’t panic! You don’t have to be a hairdresser to also be a model. But you do need to know some basic skills and knowledge to keep your hair in good condition. Models must have their hair constantly styled, usually with heat appliances that can cause a lot of damage over time. Add to that excessive back-combing, product build-up, and general wear-and-tear and it’s easy to see why some models may struggle to keep their hair healthy.

Lucky for us, the United Kingdom is blessed with a huge pool of talented hair stylists that photo shoot teams can dip in and out of at their creative pleasure. Your hair for a photoshoot will be styled to perfection. The same goes for UK Models; whenever we work with an aspiring model to produce portfolio pictures, a talented hair and beauty team is on hand to transform the model’s hair.

Whether a model needs to have their hair curled to high heaven or ironed poker straight, there’s normally a very capable hairdresser ready to do it, but when it comes to the photoshoot day they will not have the time to work on unkempt locks.

For that reason, as a model, it’s imperative to follow these industry tips:

Top Hair Modelling Tips

When it comes to hair modelling, it’s essential to pay attention to the little details that can make a big difference in your final shots. Here are some top tips to ensure your hair is on point for your next photoshoot:

1. Start with Clean Hair: Make sure to wash your hair the day before your shoot, rather than on the same day. Freshly washed hair can sometimes be too slippery for styling products to grip onto, so having slightly “day-old” hair can actually make it easier for the hairstylist to work their magic. (The only time this doesn’t apply is if you are having your hair bleached; a slightly oily scalp will protect you from the burning sensation bleach can often cause, while a freshly washed ‘do will make it worse!)
2. Keep it Dry (Unless Instructed Otherwise): Unless you’re specifically asked to arrive on set with wet hair, ensure your tresses are completely dry before the shoot. This allows the stylist to start styling right away without having to spend time blow-drying your hair.
3. Knot-Free Hair is a Must: Save time on your shoot day by ensuring your hair is knot-free. This way, the hairstylist can begin styling immediately without any delays. Detangle your hair beforehand by keeping a detangling brush in your bag so it’s ready for the stylist’s creative touch.
4. Avoid Bobby Pins and Strong Hold Sprays: If you usually wear your hair tied up, opt for a hair tie that can be easily pulled out instead of using an excessive amount of bobby pins or strong-hold hairspray. This way, the hairstylist can easily work with your hair and create the desired look without any hindrances.

They are our basic on-the-day tips for models and their hair. Both apply to men and women and are especially important for people with long hair.

Important Hair Care Tips for Models (and Everyone!)

When it comes to hair care, models face unique challenges. From constant styling with heat tools to harsh hair sprays, their locks go through a lot of wear and tear. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with some essential hair care tips that will not only keep your tresses in top shape, but also ensure you’re always camera-ready:

Trim, Trim, Trim!

Regular haircuts are a must for models. With all the backcombing, hair sprays, and heat application, split ends can quickly become a problem, as well as faded colour and damage. Getting regular trims will keep your hair looking fresh, healthy, and free of split ends. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to experiment with new styles and keep up with the latest trends!

Maintain Your Color

If you dye your hair, it’s crucial to maintain your color. The last thing you want is for your roots to start showing in front of the camera. Keep up with your color appointments and touch-ups to ensure your hair looks flawless and vibrant in every shoot. After all, your hair is your canvas, so make sure it’s always a work of art!

Consult with Your Agency

Thinking of making a drastic hair color change? It’s always best to check with your agency first. They are your partners in the industry, and it’s important to keep them informed about any significant hair changes. Not only is it a professional courtesy, but it also ensures that your agency has updated records, which can help you land the perfect gig that matches your new look.

Avoid Excessive Colouring

While experimenting with different hair colors can be fun, excessive colouring can damage your hair. Frequent use of hair dye and bleach can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage. Opt for less damaging options like semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair color, and give your hair enough time to recover between color treatments. Consulting with a professional stylist can also help you find the best colour options for your hair type and minimise damage.

Don’t DIY Your Hair

As tempting as it may be to try out haircuts, colour treatments, or styling at home, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. DIY hair treatments can often result in uneven cuts, patchy color, or even hair disasters that are difficult and costly to fix. Invest in a skilled stylist who understands your hair type and can provide expert advice and treatments tailored to your needs.

Don’t Over-Saturate with Products

Using too many hair care products or applying them excessively can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy and limp. Remember, a little goes a long way with most hair care products. Follow the recommended usage instructions and avoid overloading your hair with products. If you’re unsure about which products to use, consult with your stylist for personalised recommendations.

If you’ve got a build-up of product and are struggling to remove it, try a clarifying shampoo to remove the build-up.

Don’t Wash Hair Every Day

Washing your hair every day can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage. Instead, try to extend the time between washes and opt for dry shampoo or other hair-refreshing techniques to keep your hair looking clean and fresh. This allows your hair to retain its natural oils, which are essential for maintaining healthy and shiny locks.

Don’t Use Heated Appliances When Unnecessary

Heat-styling tools like straighteners, curlers, and blow dryers can cause significant damage to your hair if used excessively. Avoid using heated appliances when unnecessary, and always use a heat protectant spray before styling. When you do use heat-styling tools, opt for lower heat settings and limit the frequency of use to prevent damage to your hair’s structure.

If you want to style your hair without heat, there are now plenty of options on the market to help! Try plaiting freshly washed-and-dried hair and leaving overnight for beachy waves. Or invest in a heatless curling rod for beautiful, bouncy curls that last all day – without a curling tong in sight.

Use Conditioner

Conditioner is a crucial step in any hair care routine. It helps to nourish and moisturise your hair, making it soft, smooth, and manageable. After shampooing, apply conditioner from mid-length to the ends of your hair, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Regular use of conditioner can help improve the overall health and appearance of your hair.

Use a Good Detangling Brush

Investing in a good-quality detangling brush can work wonders for your hair. A detangling brush with soft, flexible bristles can help to gently remove knots and tangles without causing breakage. Start brushing from the ends of your hair and work your way up to prevent unnecessary pulling and tugging, which can lead to hair breakage. Remember; try not to brush wet hair with a standard brush as this is when it is in its most vulnerable (breakable) state.

Take a Hair Supplement

If you’re struggling with hair loss, thinning hair, or slow hair growth, consider adding a hair supplement to your routine. Hair supplements that contain essential vitamins and minerals like biotin, folic acid, and zinc can help promote healthy hair growth from within. Consult with your healthcare provider or a professional stylist to determine the right hair supplement for your specific needs.

Use Hair Masks Regularly

Hair masks are like a spa treatment for your hair. They provide deep conditioning and nourishment, helping to repair damaged hair, improve its strength and elasticity, and enhance its overall health and appearance. Incorporate a hair mask into your hair care routine at least once a week to give your hair that extra TLC it deserves. Try leaving one on overnight for a really intense treatment. 

Use Heat Protection When Styling

Heat styling tools like straighteners, curlers, and blow dryers can cause damage to your hair if used without proper protection. Make sure to always use a heat protectant spray or serum before applying heat to your hair. Heat protectants create a barrier between your hair and the high temperatures of styling tools, helping to prevent breakage, frizz, and other forms of heat damage.

Diet and Water Consumption

Healthy hair starts from within, and your diet and water consumption play a crucial role in the health of your hair. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can provide the necessary nutrients for strong, lustrous hair. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness and brittleness. So remember to nourish your body from the inside out for gorgeous, healthy hair that shines from within!

Are you interested in becoming a model? Register with us today and we’ll tell you if you have what it takes – it’s free!