
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
Richard Mannah, international artistic director, Label.m USA, is no stranger to winning awards including winning the coveted London Hairdresser Of The Year in the British Hairdressing Awards."Some of the world's best hairdressers either ...









Richard Mannah, international artistic director, Label.m USA, is no stranger to winning awards including winning the coveted London Hairdresser Of The Year in the British Hairdressing Awards.
"Some of the world's best hairdressers either live or are from London," Mannah says. "It's a very difficult and sought-after category to win.
"Each entrant has to send four images," he says. "Out of the many, many images sent, the preliminary judges choose their top six favorites. Polaroids or raw images are required, making it even more challenging (and fair!), as this eliminates photoshopping. The nominated artist must then submit another four looks to complete a collection of eight images. It is quite intense and thorough."
1. Be sure to send your entry on time as even a day late may disqualify you from the competition.
2. Fill in all the information correctly.
3. Arrange a great team: photographer, makeup artist, stylist and models.
4. Don't rely on retouching. Aim to get the hair right on the shoot as its a hair competition not a photography competition.
5. Demonstrate as many different techniques, colors, length and texture to create a variety of creativity within the collection and to showcase your hairdressing skills.
6. Take the time to choose the right image. Be sure you are completely happy with each image individually and how it will fit as a collection.
7. Try and push the envelope creatively with the hair while maintaining a beautiful, individual and suitable aspect on each model.
8. Work with the photographer to shoot the best angle of the hair which shows the hair best.
9. Have a clear idea of which direction you want to head in but be open for spontaneous ideas. I believe spontaneity equals creativity. Some of my favorite looks have been spur of the moment.
10. Be fully prepared with all the products, tools, tear sheets, equipment and team so the shoot day runs smoothly. Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

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This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

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Sponsored by Great Clips

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These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

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In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty