The secrets of being a television hairdresser

Published 15th Jul 2010 by sophieh
The secrets of being a television hairdresser

TV-work.jpg

Getting into television is an ambition for many hairdressers - believing it will bring recognition and a taste of celebrity.

But, it is incredibly hard to break into, is time consuming, and can be frustrating when your fabulous makeover ends up on the cutting-room floor.

But, if this doesn't put you off, here's some advice from people who have experienced it first-hand.

Michael-Douglas-hairdresser.jpgMichael Douglas

Resident hairdresser, The One Show

"There aren't that many opportunities for hairdressers on television, and makeover shows barely show the hair stylist - despite playing the most important role of the makeover.

"I've always tried to pitch my own ideas for a show, because you have some control over what you're actually doing; you own what you make and you don't have to settle for a hair spot on a programme.

The best way to do this is to find a production company that makes the kind of programmes you want to make.

So, if you like 10 Years Younger, look for the production company credits at the end. Go on its website and contact the development producer. Once you're in touch with them, then pitch your idea; if they like it, they will pitch to the broadcaster.

"If the production company likes your ideas, then it should offer to make a taster tape/showreel of you presenting and working, which it will use to sell you to the broadcaster.

"However, it's easy to put together your own showreel. I made a reel with my best friend 13 years ago. I cut hair in Camden market, interacted with people and persuaded them to get their hair cut.

It worked a treat - within a month of shooting it we had been commissioned to make 45 episodes of my first TV series called The Hairman for the Discovery channel. Another way is to create a showreel, then find an agent.

"You've got to look natural and comfortable on camera. The best TV presenters are no different in real life than they are when they're on TV. If you meet Chris Evans or Davina McCall, you soon realise that their talent lies in their personality - they aren't acting at presenting."

Top tips

  • Don't look at other hairdressers for presenting inspiration - look at other presenters and stand-up comedians to help you develop your own presenting style.
  • The more you do it, the better you get, so present at every opportunity and experiment with different styles until you find your voice.

Andrew-Barton-TV-work.jpgAndrew Barton

Resident hairdresser, 10 Years Younger

"I first appeared on British television on the Style Challenge makeover show, which really gave me a taste of the challenges and pressure of TV work.

In many ways it's similar to working with a team of people in a salon; you have to work together to make something a success. You have to work quickly and effectively to achieve impact, but be aware the viewer is not a hairdresser, so it shouldn't be too technical.

"Television has certainly raised my profile and helped the public understand what I do at my flagship salon in Covent Garden. People visit us for many reasons, but what we hear all the time is the word 'trust' from clients and I believe much of that comes from my work they see.

"It's very positive and creates a lot of excitement around the Andrew Barton brand. I really enjoy the pressure and challenges of working on a TV show; it's very fulfilling. Although, the hardest part is fitting everything in my diary; deadlines are often tight and timetables change at the last minute.

"I'm given briefs or a script, which I need to present, and other times I can ad lib. We often film parts many times for a pre-recorded show like 10 Years Younger, because the production team film everything from at least three angles. This takes a long time and can be frustrating as much of it ends up on the cutting-room floor.

"The longer you work with a team, the relationship and trust improves and you all learn how to get the best from each other. I've always got a lot to say about hair trends, new techniques and products; the teams I work with love that. Television is about being fresh and new."

Top tips

  • Examine why you want to do it. The benefits can be huge but the commitment and pressure can be intense.
  • Make a showreel of yourself in front of a camera and contact production companies. 
  • Be prepared for rejections, and don't take it personally. I've worked on many pilot shows that never come to anything.
sophieh

sophieh

Published 15th Jul 2010

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