How to Become a Film and Television Hair Stylist (Brushing Up on Fame)
If you’ve ever marveled at the stunning hairstyles in films and television and wondered what it takes to become a film and television hair stylist, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a film and television hair stylist. We’ll delve into:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can enhance your journey.
- How to secure a job as a film and television hair stylist.
So, whether you’re a hairdressing novice or an experienced stylist looking to break into the film and television industry, stay tuned.
We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a film and television hair stylist.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Film and Television Hair Stylist
Step 1: Understand the Job Requirements
Being a film and television hair stylist requires more than just knowing how to style hair.
The job typically involves working under high pressure environments, irregular working hours, and frequently changing locations for shoots.
You need to be able to work closely with other members of the production team, such as directors and costume designers, to create hairstyles that fit with the characters and the scenes they will be in.
Additionally, the role often requires you to design and create hairstyles from different eras or to mimic the hairstyles of famous individuals, so a strong knowledge of historical and current hairstyles is very beneficial.
You may also need to work with wigs and hair extensions.
Physical stamina is another crucial aspect as the job often involves standing for long periods of time and working with heavy equipment.
Attention to detail, creativity, and good communication skills are also very important in this role.
Understanding these requirements will help you prepare for the challenges that come with being a film and television hair stylist and equip you with the right set of skills to excel in the job.
Step 2: Complete Basic Education
To become a film and television hair stylist, a basic level of education is essential.
This usually starts with earning a high school diploma or equivalent.
While in school, taking classes in theater arts or cosmetology can help you develop the necessary skills for this profession.
Upon graduating from high school, the next step is to enroll in a beauty or cosmetology school.
These programs typically last between nine months to a year and provide the necessary education to become a licensed cosmetologist.
In these programs, you will learn about hair cutting, coloring, styling, and hygiene.
It is important to choose a program that also offers courses in makeup as it is often required for film and television hair stylists to be proficient in makeup application.
Remember, this is a creative field and involves continuous learning.
Be open to gaining knowledge about different hair types, styles, and trends.
It’s also crucial to develop an understanding of different time periods and cultures as many film and television productions are set in different eras and locations.
Getting good grades in cosmetology school and becoming licensed are key steps in the process.
After graduation, you can work in a salon to gain practical experience, which is invaluable when applying for roles in the film and television industry.
Step 3: Enroll in a Cosmetology Program
Pursuing a career as a Film and Television Hair Stylist requires professional training in hair styling and cosmetology.
This can be done by enrolling in a state-approved cosmetology program, which can be found at several vocational schools and community colleges.
These programs offer comprehensive training in hair cutting, coloring, styling, and other related topics, which are integral to becoming a successful hair stylist.
In these programs, you will learn the various techniques used in haircutting, hair coloring, and hair styling.
They will also educate you on sanitation and safety practices, scalp disorders, hair diseases, and customer service skills.
Some programs may provide opportunities to specialize in certain areas such as hair color or hair texture.
Apart from practical skills, cosmetology programs also provide a theoretical understanding of the science of hair, including hair structure and growth patterns.
This knowledge is crucial when deciding on the right products and treatments for different types of hair.
The duration of these programs can vary, but typically, you can complete a cosmetology program in one to two years.
After completing this program, you will need to pass a state licensing exam to practice as a professional hair stylist.
This is a crucial step towards achieving your dream of becoming a Film and Television Hair Stylist.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience in Hair Styling
Hands-on experience is crucial in becoming a successful Film and Television Hair Stylist.
This practical experience can be gained in several ways.
You could start by working in a salon or spa as a hairstylist to familiarize yourself with various hair types, hair products, and hairstyling techniques.
This experience will not only improve your technical skills but also your interpersonal skills, as the job involves interacting with various people.
You can also volunteer your services for local theatre productions, student films, or fashion shows.
This gives you an opportunity to get used to the fast-paced environment on set and helps you build a portfolio.
Another way to gain experience is by becoming an assistant to a professional Film and Television Hair Stylist.
This will give you the chance to observe and learn the specifics of the role such as character continuity, how to collaborate with the makeup department, and how to work with different hairstyles and wigs.
Throughout this period, it’s important to practice and perfect your skills, be open to constructive criticism, and learn from each experience.
Remember, every project you work on brings you one step closer to your goal of becoming a professional Film and Television Hair Stylist.
Step 5: Obtain a Cosmetology License
Obtaining a cosmetology license is a crucial step in pursuing a career as a Film and Television Hair Stylist.
While educational and training requirements may vary by state, a cosmetology license generally requires completion of a state-approved cosmetology program followed by a state licensing exam.
The cosmetology program typically involves courses on hair cutting, coloring, styling techniques, safety, and sanitation.
It can take anywhere from 9 months to 2 years to complete.
Once you have finished the program, you will need to pass a state licensing exam.
This exam often includes both a written test and a practical demonstration of your skills.
Having a cosmetology license not only meets the minimum requirement to practice, but it also verifies your professional capabilities.
This is especially important in the competitive film and television industry where the ability to perform a wide range of hair-related tasks is critical.
After acquiring the license, continue to stay updated with the latest hair styling trends and techniques which are vital in this ever-evolving industry.
Remember, some states or employers may also require continuing education to maintain or renew your cosmetology license.
This ongoing learning can enhance your skills, knowledge, and opportunities for career advancement in the film and television industry.
Step 6: Gain Experience in a Salon
To pursue a career as a Film and Television Hair Stylist, gaining salon experience is vital.
This phase of your career will give you a hands-on experience in hair styling, making you familiar with different hair types, cutting techniques, and hair treatments.
This is where you also refine your skills, learn new techniques and get exposure to a variety of hair styling needs.
Start by taking an entry-level position in a salon, like a shampoo assistant or junior stylist, and work your way up to more advanced roles.
Observe and learn from the experienced stylists and take every opportunity to hone your skills.
Note the different types of products used, customer interactions, and scheduling appointments as these will also be part of your job on set.
Taking part in hair styling competitions and attending industry events can also be beneficial to gain wider exposure and network within the industry.
This practical experience is crucial when it comes to working in film and television, where speed, precision, and creativity are key.
Remember to keep a portfolio of your work, showcasing a range of different styles and techniques.
This will be an invaluable resource when you start to apply for Film and Television Hair Stylist roles.
Step 7: Build a Portfolio Showcasing Your Work
A comprehensive and impressive portfolio is crucial to establishing yourself as a film and television hair stylist.
This portfolio should showcase your versatility and creativity across a range of hair styles, techniques and genres.
You should include high-quality photographs of your best work, ideally showing both before and after transformations.
It is beneficial to include work done for student films, independent films, commercials, theater productions, or any other relevant experiences.
This will help potential employers understand the breadth of your skills and your ability to create diverse looks.
You can also include testimonials from directors, actors, or other industry professionals you’ve worked with in the past.
These references can provide insight into your professional attitude, work ethic, and ability to work under pressure.
Creating a digital portfolio or a website can also be beneficial.
This would not only make your work easily accessible to potential employers all around the world, but also give you a platform to constantly update your latest work.
Remember, your portfolio should be constantly updated as you continue to work on new projects and develop new skills.
This document is a reflection of your skill level and creativity, and will often be the first impression you make on potential employers.
Be sure to present it professionally and make it a true representation of your capabilities as a film and television hair stylist.
Step 8: Learn About Period and Character-Specific Hairstyles
Film and Television hair stylists often need to create hair styles that are specific to certain eras, cultures, or characters.
This can require a deep understanding of historical and cultural hairstyles, as well as the ability to interpret a character’s personality and backstory through their hair.
To gain this understanding, you may want to take courses or workshops that focus on historical and character-specific hairstyles.
These might be offered through cosmetology schools, community colleges, or professional associations.
You can also learn by researching on your own, visiting museums, studying historical and cultural texts, and watching films and TV shows from different eras and cultures.
Alongside, it’s beneficial to practice creating these hairstyles on mannequin heads or willing friends and family members.
Try to recreate specific looks from different eras and cultures, as well as hairstyles you think suit certain types of characters.
This will help you to develop a portfolio of character and period-specific hairstyles that you can showcase to prospective employers.
Moreover, always stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the hairstyling industry.
Attending hair shows, subscribing to professional hairstyling magazines, and following industry influencers on social media can be helpful in this respect.
Remember, the more diverse and accurate your hairstyling skills, the more valuable you will be in the film and television industry.
Step 9: Network with Professionals in the Film and Television Industry
Networking is a crucial step to gaining employment as a Film and Television Hair Stylist.
Since many opportunities in this industry are often not advertised, it’s important to establish and maintain relationships with professionals working in film and television.
Start attending industry events such as film festivals, premieres, and professional development workshops.
This will give you an opportunity to meet and engage with a broad range of industry professionals, such as producers, directors, makeup artists, and actors.
Joining professional organizations and unions, like the Hair Stylist & Makeup Artists Guild, can also provide you with networking opportunities and access to industry-specific resources.
Ensure you have professional business cards ready to hand out, and maintain an up-to-date online portfolio showcasing your work.
Actively engage on social media platforms, especially those used by film and TV professionals, such as LinkedIn and Instagram.
Remember, networking is not just about taking, but also giving.
Be helpful and supportive to your contacts, offer your skills when needed and be ready to collaborate.
By building and nurturing your professional relationships, you can increase your chances of securing work as a Film and Television Hair Stylist.
Step 10: Apply for Jobs in Film and Television Production Companies
Once you have honed your skills, gathered experience and built a strong portfolio showcasing your work, it’s time to apply for job roles in film and television production companies.
These companies can include both major Hollywood studios, independent production companies, and television networks.
Start by researching and identifying companies that produce the type of content you are interested in.
For example, if you are interested in period dramas, look for production companies that specialize in this genre.
If you’re more into reality television, consider companies that produce these types of shows.
Networking is key in this industry.
Attend industry events, engage in online forums and groups related to hair styling in film and television, and connect with professionals in the field.
Building relationships with people already working in the industry can often lead to job opportunities.
Craft a compelling resume and cover letter that highlight your specific skills and experience in hair styling for film and television.
In your cover letter, express your passion for the industry and explain why you are a good fit for the company.
In addition to applying for advertised roles, consider sending speculative applications to companies you’re interested in.
Even if they don’t have an open position, they may keep your information on file for future opportunities.
Lastly, don’t limit yourself to just one company or one type of role.
The more applications you send out, the better your chances of landing a job.
Remember, every job opportunity is a chance to learn and grow in your career as a film and television hair stylist.
Step 11: Stay Updated with Hair Styling Trends and Techniques
In the film and television industry, staying current with the latest trends and techniques in hair styling is vital.
This could involve anything from new coloring techniques, cutting styles, hair treatments, or the use of innovative styling tools.
Subscribing to hair and beauty magazines, attending hair shows, participating in industry workshops, and becoming members of professional hairstyling organizations can help keep you informed about the latest trends.
Furthermore, you should always continue to educate yourself by enrolling in advanced training courses and learning from industry experts.
These courses could cover diverse areas from period styles for historical films to contemporary styles for modern productions.
Developing relationships with suppliers and manufacturers can also keep you updated about new products.
In addition, networking with other hair stylists can provide insights into new trends and techniques used in the industry.
Lastly, remember that trends in the film and television industry often mirror those in the fashion industry.
Thus, following fashion trends, fashion week events, and top fashion designers can also provide inspiration and keep you in the loop.
Staying updated and continually learning will ensure your skills remain relevant and in high demand.
Step 12: Continuously Expand Your Skills, Perhaps with Makeup Artistry
As a film and television hairstylist, the ability to adapt and expand your skill set is crucial.
The industry is ever-evolving, with new styles and techniques being introduced constantly.
Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow, whether it’s through formal education, on-the-job training, or attending industry events and seminars.
One way to diversify your skills is by learning the art of makeup.
This additional expertise can make you more versatile and valuable on set, as you’ll be able to tackle a broader range of tasks.
By understanding how to do both hair and makeup, you can help create a complete look for a character, which may increase your opportunities for higher-level jobs in the industry.
Enroll in makeup artistry classes, which can range from basic to advanced techniques.
Learn about different skin types, tones, and the best products to use for each.
Practice contouring, highlighting, and special effects makeup.
The more you know, the more you can offer to a production team.
Remember to keep an open mind and never stop learning.
The more skills and knowledge you acquire, the more valuable you become in the film and television industry.
Step 13: Join a Professional Organization like the Local 706 Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists Guild
Becoming a member of a professional organization, such as the Local 706 Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists Guild, can help you expand your network, gain access to industry-specific resources and gain the necessary credibility in the industry.
The Guild represents hair stylists and makeup artists working in Film, Television, Theater, and other entertainment media.
When you join this union, you will have to meet certain requirements.
In most cases, you’ll need to have worked a certain number of hours in the industry and be able to prove your competence as a professional hair stylist.
Once you’ve become a member, you’ll have access to health and pension benefits, as well as opportunities for continuing education and training.
You can also attend workshops, seminars and other events organized by the Guild.
These provide great opportunities for learning new techniques, staying updated with the latest trends, and networking with other professionals in the industry.
Being a part of such organization also adds value to your portfolio when applying for jobs, as it shows that you are committed to your profession, dedicated to continuous learning, and adhere to the industry’s standards of practice.
Step 14: Always Be Prepared for On-Set Adjustments and Last-Minute Changes
As a film and television hair stylist, one of the most important skills you can develop is adaptability.
Being able to adjust to on-set changes and last-minute requests is a fundamental part of the job.
A change in camera angle, lighting, or a director’s vision can mean that a hairstyle needs to be adjusted immediately, often under time pressure.
To prepare for these potential changes, ensure that you always have a comprehensive kit of tools and supplies on hand.
This includes a wide range of products and tools that could be needed to modify or completely redo a hairstyle.
Items such as hot tools, bobby pins, hair spray, and a variety of combs and brushes should always be readily available.
In addition to having the right tools, being mentally prepared for sudden changes is also crucial.
This requires developing a calm and focused mindset.
Even under pressure, it’s important to maintain composure and professionalism.
Lastly, keep open lines of communication with the director, actors, and other members of the production team.
This will help you better understand any changes and how to effectively respond to them.
Remember, as the hair stylist, you play an essential role in bringing the director’s vision to life, and your ability to adapt quickly and efficiently contributes to the overall success of the production.
Step 15: Develop a Good Rapport with Actors and Production Crew
Building strong relationships in the film and television industry is crucial for a hair stylist.
This includes not only the actors you’ll be working with but also the entire production crew.
These relationships can greatly impact your work environment, your reputation, and even future opportunities in the industry.
When working with actors, it’s important to be respectful and considerate of their needs.
After all, you’re helping them to embody their characters and feel confident on screen.
It’s also key to communicate effectively, ensuring you understand their preferences and concerns.
As for the production crew, a good rapport can lead to smoother operations on set.
Producers, directors, and costume designers all have significant roles to play in the overall look of a production, and as a hair stylist, you’re a part of that creative team.
Having a positive relationship with these individuals can make collaborations more seamless and enjoyable.
Beyond this, networking can also lead to further opportunities.
The film and television industry heavily relies on word-of-mouth recommendations, so a good rapport with actors and crew can open doors for future projects and collaborations.
Remember, demonstrating professionalism, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic can go a long way in establishing a good rapport in this industry.
Step 16: Consider Representation Through a Talent Agency
As a film and television hair stylist, one of the steps you can consider to boost your career opportunities is seeking representation through a talent agency.
Talent agencies have extensive networks and connections in the film and television industry, which can open doors for you that might otherwise be closed.
They can help you get auditions and job offers, market your skills and experience to potential employers, and negotiate contracts and compensation on your behalf.
Before you sign with an agency, you should do your research to ensure they are reputable and a good fit for your career goals.
Look into their track record, the types of clients they represent, and the work they’ve done in the past.
It’s also important to read any contract very carefully before signing to ensure you understand the terms and conditions, including any fees or commissions they charge.
Remember that while an agency can help you find opportunities, it’s still up to you to prove your skills and earn the job.
Maintain your portfolio up-to-date, keep practicing and refining your skills, and continue networking within the industry.
An agent is an advocate and facilitator, but your talent and hard work will ultimately determine your success.
Film and Television Hair Stylist Roles and Responsibilities
Film and Television Hair Stylists play an integral role in the production of a film or television show.
Their work is essential in creating characters and setting the scene for the audience.
They work closely with directors, actors, and costume designers to help realize the director’s vision for the characters.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Design and Conceptualization
- Design and create hairstyles that reflect the time period, setting, and character traits.
- Discuss and collaborate with directors and costume designers to ensure hair designs align with the overall vision.
- Use reference images or sketches to conceptualize hairstyles.
Application and Styling
- Style actors’ hair according to the design concept.
- Apply hair products and use styling tools to create desired looks.
- Install hair extensions, wigs, and hairpieces when required.
Maintenance and Touch-ups
- Perform hair touch-ups between takes to ensure continuity.
- Maintain the hairstyle throughout the filming day.
- Ensure that wigs and hairpieces are properly cleaned and stored.
Communication
- Communicate with actors about their comfort and preferences.
- Work with makeup artists to coordinate looks.
- Communicate with directors and cinematographers about how hair will look on camera.
Safety and Hygiene
- Follow safety standards and practices to prevent accidents.
- Follow hygiene practices to protect actors’ health.
- Ensure all tools and products are sanitized before use.
Continuity
- Ensure hair continuity between scenes and takes.
- Document hairstyles and techniques used for future reference.
Education and Training
- Stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in hair styling.
- Participate in training and workshops to enhance skills.
Supply Management
- Manage hair styling supplies and ensure they are stocked.
- Order new supplies as needed.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the makeup and costume departments.
- Collaborate with other hairstylists and assistants.
Scheduling
- Manage time effectively to style actors’ hair before shooting begins.
- Coordinate schedules with makeup artists and other departments.
What Does a Film and Television Hair Stylist Do?
Film and Television Hair Stylists are an integral part of the production team in the entertainment industry.
They are responsible for creating hairstyles that suit the characters in a film or television show and contribute to the overall look and feel of the production.
They work closely with directors, costume designers, and makeup artists to ensure that the hairstyles they create align with the characters’ personalities, the setting of the film or show, and the specific era or time period being portrayed.
Film and Television Hair Stylists create and maintain hairstyles during filming, using a variety of tools and products, such as hair straighteners, curling irons, hair sprays, and gels.
They may also use wigs and hair extensions to create certain looks or styles.
They may be required to replicate a specific hairstyle from a different time period or create a futuristic or fantasy hairstyle for science fiction or fantasy productions.
In addition to styling hair, Film and Television Hair Stylists also maintain the health of the actors’ hair by providing treatments and recommending products for hair care.
Whether the character is a leading role or an extra, the Film and Television Hair Stylist plays a crucial role in helping to bring the director’s vision to life and in creating a believable world for the audience.
Essential Film and Television Hair Stylist Skills
- Artistic Creativity: A hair stylist in the film and television industry must have a strong sense of creativity to create hairstyles that reflect the characters’ personalities and the director’s vision.
- Communication: Effective communication is necessary to understand the requirements of the directors, producers, actors, and other crew members. Good listening skills are also important to grasp the intended look and feel of each character.
- Knowledge of Period Styles: Hair stylists must be able to create hairstyles from different eras, as scripts often require characters from a specific period. A knowledge of historical and cultural hairstyles is crucial.
- Styling and Cutting Skills: Proficiency in a wide range of hair styling and cutting techniques is essential. This includes knowledge of braiding, extensions, wigs, and advanced cutting methods.
- Product Knowledge: Hair stylists should have a deep understanding of various hair products and their effects on different hair types. This includes knowledge of color techniques and products that are safe for use on set.
- Time Management: Film and television production often work on tight schedules. Hair stylists need to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining a high standard of work.
- Physical Stamina: The job often requires long hours of standing and bending, so good physical health and stamina are essential.
- Teamwork: Hair stylists must work well with makeup artists, costume designers, and other members of the design team to ensure a cohesive look for each character.
- Continuity: Hair stylists need to maintain continuity in characters’ hairstyles throughout multiple scenes and shots. This requires keen attention to detail and excellent record-keeping.
- Flexibility: Changes are frequent in film and television production, so hair stylists need to be adaptable and able to make quick changes when necessary.
- Cosmetology License: Most film and television hair stylists are required to have a cosmetology license, which demonstrates knowledge of safety and sanitation procedures.
- Problem-Solving: Unexpected issues can arise on set, so a hair stylist must be able to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
Film and Television Hair Stylist Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior Hair Stylist
Your journey typically starts as a Junior Hair Stylist.
At this stage, you will be learning from the experienced stylists and handling basic tasks.
You could be assisting with hair washing, blow drying, and basic styling.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Keep yourself updated with the latest trends in hair styling and fashion.
- Seek Mentorship: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your experienced colleagues.
- Active Participation: Show enthusiasm in your assigned tasks and take part in the creative process.
The Ascent: Hair Stylist
As you gain experience, you’ll transition into the role of a Hair Stylist.
You’ll handle more complex hair styling tasks, work directly with clients, and become an integral part of the styling team.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- Creativity: Develop your artistic skills and try to create unique and trendy hair styles.
- Teamwork: Collaborate with makeup artists, fashion stylists, and directors to create a cohesive look.
- Client Satisfaction: Focus on understanding the needs of your clients and ensuring they are satisfied with your work.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Hair Stylist
The next step is the Senior Hair Stylist position.
At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and creativity within the team.
You may take on the responsibility of creating and implementing hair styles for lead characters, and mentoring junior stylists.
To excel as a Senior Hair Stylist:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help junior stylists grow.
- Artistic Vision: Collaborate with the director and other creatives to design hair styles that enhance the characters and the overall production.
- Leadership: Inspire others with your creativity, work ethic, and dedication to excellence.
Beyond the Horizon: Department Head and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as becoming a Department Head or Key Hair Stylist.
These roles involve greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Technical Leadership: Drive hair and makeup initiatives and shape the creative direction of your team.
- Management Skills: If you transition into management, develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Innovation: Keep exploring new hair styling techniques and trends to stay ahead in the industry.
Pinnacle of Success: Personal Stylist to Stars or Hair Stylist for High-Profile Productions
You may reach roles like Personal Stylist to Stars or Hair Stylist for High-Profile Productions at the highest levels of the hair styling career ladder.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the look of high-profile clients or characters, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.
Film and Television Hair Stylist Salary
Entry-Level Film and Television Hair Stylist
- Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
- Entry-level stylists typically have 0-2 years of experience, have attended a cosmetology school, and may hold licensure or certification in their state.
Mid-Level Film and Television Hair Stylist
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
- Mid-level stylists have 2-5 years of experience and typically have a wider array of techniques and skills, including special effects makeup and period piece styling.
Senior Film and Television Hair Stylist
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $75,000 per year
- Senior stylists have 5+ years of experience and often lead teams of stylists, work closely with production design teams, and might be responsible for the creation of unique styles for main characters.
Lead Film and Television Hair Stylist / Department Head
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $100,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership and decision-making responsibilities. Lead stylists manage teams, coordinate with directors and producers, and oversee all hair-related aspects of a production.
Hair Stylist Supervisor / Production Designer
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep knowledge of styling and design, and often involve setting the visual tone and style for a film or television production.
Film and Television Hair Stylist Work Environment
Film and Television Hair Stylists typically work on sets of film and television productions, both in studios and on location.
This role involves long hours and sometimes travel, depending on the filming schedule and location.
They usually work in a fast-paced environment where precision and creativity are critical, often designing and creating hairstyles to fit the characters’ roles and the period in which the film or show is set.
The role also involves collaborating with directors, producers, makeup artists, and costume designers to ensure a unified visual aesthetic for the characters.
Film and Television Hair Stylists may enjoy a flexible schedule depending on the production requirements, but they often need to be available at short notice or outside of standard working hours, including evenings and weekends.
As a Film and Television Hair Stylist’s reputation grows, they may be invited to work on high-budget productions, become a personal stylist for a well-known actor, or even set up their own styling business.
FAQs About Becoming a Film and Television Hair Stylist
What qualifications do I need to become a Film and Television Hair Stylist?
You generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, and then it’s strongly recommended to complete a cosmetology program that is state-licensed.
This program typically lasts 9 months to a year and covers hair styling techniques, hair cutting, and other beauty services.
After completing the program, you must pass a state licensing exam.
Additional training and workshops specifically focused on film and television hair styling can also be beneficial.
It’s also vital to have a strong portfolio showcasing your work.
How long does it take to become a Film and Television Hair Stylist?
It takes approximately 1-2 years to become a qualified hair stylist.
This includes time spent in a cosmetology program and gaining work experience.
Breaking into film and television may take longer, depending on your networking abilities, the strength of your portfolio, and opportunities in your area.
Do I need any specific skills to be a Film and Television Hair Stylist?
Yes, besides proficiency in various hair styling techniques, you should have strong communication skills, as you’ll be collaborating with directors, actors, and other crew members.
Creativity and a keen eye for detail are also important, as you’ll need to design hairstyles that fit characters and scenes.
Physical stamina is required as the job involves standing for long hours.
Also, time management skills are essential to work within filming schedules.
Is being a Film and Television Hair Stylist a stressful job?
Being a Film and Television Hair Stylist can be stressful at times due to the fast-paced and demanding nature of film and television production.
You might have to work long hours, often under tight schedules, and need to make quick changes or fixes on set.
However, many find the creative and collaborative aspects of the job rewarding and enjoyable.
What are the career prospects for a Film and Television Hair Stylist?
The career prospects can be promising for those who are flexible and proactive.
While the film and television industry can be competitive, opportunities also exist in theater, fashion, and advertising.
With experience, you can progress to roles like key stylist or hair department head.
There are also chances to work on high-profile projects or with famous actors, which can further enhance your reputation and career opportunities.
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap.
Pursuing a career as a film and television hair stylist is a challenging endeavor, but one that is incredibly gratifying.
With the appropriate skills, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a significant mark in the world of entertainment.
Keep in mind, the journey may be rigorous, but the opportunities are boundless. Your creative talents could be the key to the next groundbreaking character transformation that changes how we perceive, engage, and connect with stories on screen.
So, seize the moment. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop styling.
Because the world is eagerly waiting to see what you can create.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a film and television hair stylist, have a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path with confidence.
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