What a Hair Stylist Does on a Film or TV Set
A hair stylist on a production is responsible for designing, preparing, and maintaining the hair of cast members throughout the shoot day. That means working closely with the director and costume department to build looks that feel true to the character, the period, and the overall visual tone of the project. On set, they handle continuity with precision, matching a performer's hair exactly from shot to shot so that edits cut seamlessly. They also manage quick changes between setups, touch up hair under hot lights, and adapt when a shoot day runs long or conditions change. For productions with larger casts, a department head hair stylist will also supervise additional stylists and build out a kit budget and prep schedule in advance.
What to Look for When Hiring a Hair Stylist in Long Beach
Long Beach supports a steady mix of commercial shoots, independent films, music videos, and branded content, so local hair stylists tend to have broad experience across formats. When evaluating candidates, look for a few key things:
- A portfolio or reel that shows range across different hair textures, styles, and period looks relevant to your project
- Clear experience with on-set continuity, not just salon or editorial work
- Comfort working under time pressure and adapting to last-minute script or schedule changes
- Familiarity with union protocols if your production is SAG or signatory, and knowledge of IATSE Local 706 expectations if applicable
- Strong communication with the director, DP, and wardrobe department
- Their own professional kit, with the capacity to source specialty products when needed
Rate Context for Long Beach Hair Stylists
Rates for film and TV hair stylists in the Los Angeles area, which includes Long Beach, vary depending on the scale of the production, union affiliation, and the stylist's level of experience. Non-union independent productions typically negotiate day rates directly with the stylist. Union productions covered by IATSE agreements follow established scale rates with additional provisions for overtime, kit fees, and prep days. As a general reference, experienced hair stylists on professional productions in this market typically command day rates that reflect the competitive nature of the Southern California crew pool. Budget for kit rental fees on top of the day rate, and confirm whether the stylist charges separately for prep days and travel.
Why Producers Use NeedaCrew to Find Hair Stylists in Long Beach
NeedaCrew is a marketplace built specifically for film and TV production hiring in the US and Canada. Every crew member on the platform has a verified profile, so you can review credits, read reviews from past productions, and reach out directly without sorting through generic freelance listings. Posting a project takes minutes, and you can specify your dates, format, budget range, and union requirements up front so that only qualified, available stylists respond.
If you are a producer or production coordinator ready to staff your shoot, post your project on NeedaCrew and start connecting with hair stylists in Long Beach today.
If you are a hair stylist looking for your next production job in the Long Beach or greater Los Angeles area, join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get discovered by producers hiring right now.