Casting the Perfect Model: Elevating Your Hairbrained Content and Beyond
Let’s be real: creating impactful hairdressing videos isn’t just about nailing the perfect cut or blend—it’s about telling a story. And to tell a great story, you need the right cast. I’ve been in your shoes, wondering how to take my work to the next level. It’s equal parts exciting and intimidating to put yourself out there, to try to translate your vision into something that not only reflects your creativity but resonates with others.
That’s why model casting matters so much. Whether you’re preparing for the Hairbrained Awards or simply sharing your artistry with the Hairbrained community, the right model can be the difference between a video that feels flat and one that truly inspires.
The beauty of working in this industry is that there’s always room to grow, experiment, and push yourself creatively. Videos are an incredible medium to showcase what we do, but they’re also about connecting—with your audience, your peers, and even yourself. And finding the right person to collaborate with, someone who brings your vision to life in a way that feels real, is an essential part of that process.
When I was a young hairdresser, one piece of advice stuck with me: “Face, Body, Hair.” As much as hair is our focus, the overall aesthetic matters—face first, then body, and finally hair. That’s the natural flow of the eye. It doesn’t mean hair takes a back seat; it means our work should enhance the whole picture. Once you understand this, you can play with breaking the rules in creative ways. And honestly? Those experiments often lead to the most memorable and impactful work.
The Importance of Casting Models
Emma Offen of ARROJO Studio in New York City, a past nominee of the Hairbrained Awards, shares a similar philosophy about working with models. “Finding models starts with connections,” she explained. “As a DJ in nightclubs, I meet fascinating, creative people all the time. I'll hand them my Instagram, tell them what I do for a living, and invite them to come in as models for hair shoots. Many of these club kids—often 25 and under—can't afford high-end salon services, so this becomes a great way to connect with a young, edgy community. It’s a win-win: I get to showcase my artistry while also bringing in new clientele.”
Emma also leverages social media to expand her reach. “It often starts with the people I meet in nightlife—I’ll ask, ‘Do you have any cool friends who might want their hair done and be part of a photoshoot?’ Sometimes it’s as simple as seeing someone post a photo of their friend. I’ll follow that friend, reach out, and ask them to model for me. Finding the most interesting people out there requires boldness and hunger.”
Beyond the Awards: Year-Round Content Creation
The Hairbrained Awards are an incredible opportunity to showcase your creativity, but why stop there? Sharing videos year-round allows you to refine your craft, experiment, and connect with an inspiring community of like-minded artists.
“When you stop making content to get noticed is when people start paying attention.” This insight from Sean Michael of Salon Beau and a past Hairbrained Awards nominee, perfectly captures the essence of authentic content creation. It’s not about chasing recognition but about creating work that reflects your passion and artistry. Authenticity resonates deeply within the Hairbrained community, where the focus is on inspiring and elevating one another.
Kateynn Kwasniak, a stylist at Blank Canvas in Londonderry, NH, and another past Hairbrained Awards nominee, expanded on the benefits of content creation: “Content/video creation is an amazing way to not only share your work with the world but also build your clientele, work with brands you love, inspire other artists, show your skills, share your personality, and so much more. By utilizing video creation, you are also developing a portfolio for potential clients and models to help do more!”
Regularly creating and sharing videos builds a visual portfolio that not only inspires others but also strengthens your foundation for awards submissions. Those videos are testaments to your growth, creativity, and passion—all qualities that resonate with the Hairbrained community.
Practical Tips for Finding and Working with Models
Casting models is about more than good looks. It’s about finding someone who aligns with your vision and brings authenticity to the project. Emma Offen’s approach—leveraging connections in nightlife and social media—is a testament to the power of networking and fearlessly pursuing opportunities. “Before a shoot, I share the concept and vision with the model, often over text, and we have a face-to-face meeting a few days in advance,” she explained. “We talk through the vision and collaborate on how to bring it to life. Collaboration is everything. There’s no room for greed. To create something truly special, everyone involved needs to be lifted up and celebrated.”
Kateynn Kwasniak shared her own methods: “When I’m looking for models, I’ll put a call out on my socials, but most of the time I meet them just being out. The biggest thing is just to have fun with it and start filming!”
When you cast a model, you’re not just styling hair—you’re crafting a narrative. Collaboration, preparation, and a clear vision are what make the magic happen. And that magic resonates not just with judges, but with the entire Hairbrained community.
The Hairbrained Awards: A Showcase of Creativity
The Hairbrained Awards aren’t just about competition; they’re about celebrating artistry and community. Submitting a video is a way to challenge yourself and push your creativity to new heights. But the journey doesn’t start and end with an entry. By engaging with the Hairbrained community year-round, sharing your work, and refining your craft, you’re setting yourself up for not just one impactful submission, but a career filled with standout moments.
So, whether you’re casting your next model or brainstorming your next video, remember: the journey matters as much as the destination. The right model, a compelling story, and a commitment to authenticity can transform your work and inspire others to do the same.
Cover Image:
“The Provocative Collection” ARROJO EXPO 2024
Photography by @thru.ogs.lens
Hair Color by Emma Offen
Haircuts by Emma Offen (haircut on @betseyjohnsondoll by @jcolestyle / haircut on @chinny.cherry by @sasha.sandiegostylist /: hair color on @notkatie.dee and @harleyjadewalker by @alexissarrishair @wellahairusa
Clothing styled by Emma Offen
Models
@notkatie.dee
@harleyjadewalker
@chinny.cherry
@machineseparatedman
@gr3mii
@junkheaaad
@betseyjohnsondoll
@joannaangel
Eye Makeup by @notkatie.dee
Designers
@_lindseymartin_
@amorydinero.newyork
Shibari by @kennethplay
