What a Hair Stylist Does on Set
A Hair Stylist on a film or TV production is responsible for designing, cutting, coloring, and maintaining the hair looks of cast members throughout the shoot. Their work goes well beyond aesthetics. They collaborate with the director and costume department to make sure every character reads correctly on camera, account for continuity across shooting days, and adapt quickly when schedules shift or a scene requires a last-minute change.
On longer productions, a Hair Stylist will create detailed continuity notes and reference photos for every character so that a hairstyle shot on day one matches perfectly on day fifteen. They also handle touch-ups between takes, manage a kit stocked with professional-grade tools and products, and sometimes coordinate a team of additional hair assistants on larger sets.
What to Look for When Hiring in Memphis
Memphis has a growing production community, and there are skilled Hair Stylists here with credits spanning indie films, music videos, commercials, and network television. When evaluating candidates, look for these qualities:
- A portfolio or reel that shows range across different hair types, textures, and period styles relevant to your project
- On-set experience, not just salon work, since set protocol and continuity discipline are learned skills
- Familiarity with the demands of long shoot days and the ability to work quickly under pressure
- Strong communication skills and the ability to take creative direction from a director or department head
- Their own professional kit, which signals readiness and investment in the craft
Rates for Hair Stylists in Memphis
Rates for Hair Stylists on film and TV productions in Memphis typically vary based on the scale of the project, union or non-union status, the number of shoot days, and the stylist's level of experience. Non-union indie productions and smaller commercial shoots tend to work with day rates that are more flexible, while larger productions with union agreements follow established rate schedules. It is always worth discussing kit fees separately, as a Hair Stylist's professional kit represents a real ongoing investment. When budgeting, factor in prep days, which are often compensated at a negotiated rate distinct from shoot days.
How NeedaCrew Makes Hiring Easier
NeedaCrew is a US and Canada marketplace built specifically for film and TV production hiring. Every crew member on the platform has been through a verification process, so you are not starting from zero when you review profiles. You can post your project with the details that matter, shoot dates, location, project type, rate, and get responses from Hair Stylists in the Memphis area who are actually available and relevant to your needs.
Ready to find your Hair Stylist? Post your project on NeedaCrew and start hearing from qualified local crew today. If you are a Hair Stylist working in Memphis or anywhere in the US and Canada, join NeedaCrew as a crew member and get discovered by productions looking for your skills.