Professional Hair for Film & TV

Elevate your hair styling expertise with our advanced professional course designed specifically for experienced practitioners working in the UK film and television industry. This intensive program focuses on the specialized techniques, period styling mastery, and continuity management required for high-budget productions.

Course Overview

Our Professional Hair for Film & TV course is tailored for hair stylists with at least two years of industry experience who want to expand their skill set and take on more challenging projects. Taught by award-winning hair designers who have worked on major UK and international productions, this course provides hands-on training in advanced techniques that are essential for working at the highest levels of the industry.

Located at Pinewood Studios, you’ll train in professional-grade facilities using the same equipment and products used on major film productions. With a maximum class size of 10 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and have ample opportunity to practice complex techniques under expert guidance.

What You’ll Learn

Advanced Period Hairdressing

Period productions require meticulous attention to historical accuracy and authentic styling techniques. You’ll master the skills needed to recreate hairstyles from various eras, from Georgian and Victorian styles to 1920s finger waves, 1940s victory rolls, and 1960s beehives. Learn to research historical references, understand the social context of different periods, and translate historical imagery into practical on-set applications.

This module covers:

• Historical research and reference gathering
• Era-specific styling techniques and methods
• Working with hot irons, curling tongs, and period equipment
• Creating authentic texture and volume for different periods
• Adapting period styles for modern actors and production requirements

Wig Preparation and Dressing

Wigs are essential tools in film and television production, used for everything from period drama to fantasy and science fiction. This comprehensive module covers the entire process of working with wigs, from preparation and customization to dressing and maintenance.

You’ll learn:

• Wig construction and types (lace-front, full lace, hard-front)
• Cutting and styling wigs to suit individual actors
• Blending wigs with natural hairlines and skin tones
• Preparing wigs for camera (reducing shine, adding texture)
• Wig maintenance, cleaning, and storage
• Working with facial hair pieces, extensions, and hairpieces

Contemporary Styling for Screen

Modern productions require hair that looks natural yet polished on camera. Learn advanced blow-drying techniques, cutting for camera, and creating contemporary styles that maintain their integrity throughout long shooting days. Understand how different lighting, camera angles, and HD technology affect hair appearance and how to adapt your work accordingly.

Continuity and Production Workflow

Continuity is critical in film and television production. A single scene may be shot over multiple days or even weeks, and hair must match perfectly across all shots. This module teaches you systematic approaches to documenting and maintaining continuity, including detailed photography, note-taking systems, and communication with other departments.

Additional topics include:

• Working with directors, DOPs, and costume designers
• Managing multiple looks for principal actors
• Preparing for long shooting schedules and overnight shoots
• Kit organization and professional presentation
• Problem-solving common on-set challenges

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for professional hair stylists with at least two years of experience working in film, television, theatre, or high-end fashion who want to specialize in screen work or advance their careers in the industry. You should have solid foundational skills in hair styling and cutting, be comfortable working with various hair types and textures, and have a genuine interest in the craft of hairdressing for camera.

Ideal candidates include:

• Working hair stylists seeking to transition into film and TV
• Assistant hair stylists looking to develop department head skills
• Theatre or fashion hair stylists moving into screen work
• Returning professionals updating their skills for modern productions

Industry Connections and Career Development

The UK film and television industry offers numerous opportunities for skilled hair professionals. Organizations like ScreenSkills provide resources and funding opportunities for continuing professional development. Many graduates of similar programs have gone on to work on major UK productions including period dramas for the BBC, Netflix series, and feature films.

The National Film and Television School and institutions offering professional hair and makeup courses demonstrate the growing recognition of specialized training in this field. Building a strong portfolio and networking with other professionals are essential steps in advancing your career.

Course Details

Duration: 5 intensive days

Class Size: Maximum 10 participants

Location: Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire

Prerequisites: Minimum 2 years professional hair styling experience

What’s Included:

• All materials and products for the duration of the course
• Professional kit recommendations and supplier contacts
• Industry standard continuity documentation templates
• Certificate of completion
• Ongoing alumni support and industry networking opportunities

Take the Next Step

Ready to elevate your hair styling career to the professional level? Our advanced training provides the specialized skills and industry connections you need to work on major film and television productions. With small class sizes and expert instructors actively working in the industry, you’ll gain practical knowledge that translates directly to on-set success.

Apply now to secure your place in our next Professional Hair for Film & TV course, or contact us for more information about upcoming course dates and availability.

Creative Media Skills courses are designed in collaboration with industry professionals and aligned with ScreenSkills training standards. Our training programs prepare students for successful careers in the competitive UK film and television industry.