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.
by Anne Moratto
Two Pictures
Technology is like salt, a little bit can really bring out the flavor of the experience, but too much can be overwhelming. If you have ever had a guest come in with a full Pinterest board of the one haircolor they want, you probably know what ...
January 25, 2016
1/2
3 min to read
Technology is like salt, a little bit can really bring out the flavor of the experience, but too much can be overwhelming. If you have ever had a guest come in with a full Pinterest board of the one haircolor they want, you probably know what I'm talking about. (15 different pictures on 15 different people but the blush pink a guest wants is actually 15 different pinks.) Yes, this gives some leeway, but it's not good, if they have the exact color they want in mind.
Historically, we have used images to illustrate, to both service providers and guests, we're on the same page and we're anticipating the same outcomes. The classic example is the man who asks the stylist to cut his hair over his ear. The stylist proceeds to cut the hair short on the side of his head using a scissor-over-comb technique to cut it “over the ear”. After the first cut the man exclaims loudly, “I wanted my hair cut over my ear!”, meaning he wanted his ears covered. Salons and barbershops have a long history of pictures on the walls, pictures in look books, hairstyle magazines in the reception are, and more recently hairstyle magazines in checkout lines at grocery stores and pharmacies.
All of which have helped us for years. Why? Because there weren't that many pictures most guests liked anyway. These sources generally offered 1-3 pictures that really spoke to a guest and then “trends” meant there were not that many styles popular at any one time.
But times have changed. Today, many guests spend considerable amounts of time looking at hundreds of images allowing them to find, sometimes, overwhelming amounts of images to illustrate “exactly” what look/color they want for themselves. Can this be helpful, sure, but can it be harmful?
You bet. First, all of these pictures can sometimes make a person feel like they can be any color they want, which is true to a degree. Just because Kim K did it, doesn't make it's a good idea. So how do we set ourselves up for success? I like two pictures.
Two pictures is almost a game, but it helps to create a conversation and allows the salon professional to ask the right questions. So which two pictures?
Ask for a picture of the hair they love, and one that is similar that they don’t like. If necessary, this can be done for each service if we are talking about a makeover or change of both a shape and color. So for a color that is hair painted, show me a picture of what you want and then show me one that is too much or too little, but is close to what is wanted. How about a copper red that’s perfect and one that is a little too bright or gold? How about a LOB you love and one that just misses. Show me over the ear that you want and over the ear you don’t want. When there are two pictures it’s easier to be on the same page.
I love technology, as most of you probably know, and when used properly it really can make human engagement better, offering more connections and possibilities. But went technology takes over our lives, all the possibilities can get in the way of actually finding happiness in real life. The truth is too many choices can create regret and two pictures helps me make sure I can do my job, making guests love the way they look.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
More Career
AI Won't Replace Your Voice—Unless You Let It
"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic
by Anne Moratto
50 Smart Things Beauty Educators Have Told Us
Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.
by Anne Moratto
What Salon and Spa Professionals Need to Know About Skin Longevity
Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.
Financial Educator Anna Manukyan Launches Masterclass for Early Career Stylists
Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.
6 Ways Self-Love Will Help You Crush Your Goals
From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.
MODERN SALON Boot Camp Heads to Austin: One-Day Beauty Business & Career Education Event for Beauty Professionals
A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.
How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)
From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.
Ulta Beauty and Beauty Changes Lives Launch “The Possibilities Are Beautiful” Cosmetology Student Scholarship
This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.
A Path for Everyone: Great Clips Salons Offer Diverse Career Opportunities
Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips
Are Salon Suites Becoming Too Cheap? The Hidden Risks of Low Salon Suite Rent
Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.
Magical Creatures: Why These Stylists Love Creating Fantasy Hair Color
These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.
by Anne Moratto
Keratin Complex Launches KC on Tour 2026 with Tabatha Coffey
Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.
by Anne Moratto
Why Soft Skills and Client Communication Matter More Than Ever in the Beauty Industry
Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.
by Anne Moratto
Author Daniel Cubillo Drops the Blueprint for Building a Career in the Content Arena
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.
What Custom Notifications Tell Us About the Personalized Future of the Salon Client Experience
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.
Beautiful Careers Happen Here
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