Photos for Your Hairstylist: How to Show Your Desired Shade Without Filters

Walking into a salon with the perfect reference picture can make all the difference between getting exactly what you want and leaving disappointed. Many people struggle to communicate their desired hair shade accurately, often showing pictures with heavy filters that don’t represent realistic results. Using a hair color change app before your appointment can help you visualize options and communicate clearly with your stylist.

Finding the Perfect Reference

Getting the right shade starts with finding the right reference. Here’s how to capture and present photos that accurately show what you want:

1. Take pictures in natural daylight to show true tones, as salon lighting can distort colors.
2. Include multiple angles showing how the hair catches light from different perspectives.
3. Bring examples of both what you want and don’t want to clarify your preferences.
4. Consider bringing items like fabric swatches that match your desired shade.

Having these reference materials helps your stylist understand exactly what you’re envisioning and can prevent miscommunication about terms like “caramel blonde” or “chocolate brown” that might mean different things to different people.

Preparing Your Own Reference Photos

When showing your current hair to a stylist online or in person, proper photography matters:

1. Wash your hair without products that might alter how your base shade appears.
2. Take pictures in three lighting conditions: daylight, indoor, and where you spend most time.
3. Include close-ups of roots and ends to show any variations that might affect coloring.
4. Skip beauty filters that alter the true appearance of your current hair.

Creating an honest representation of your starting point helps your stylist assess what processes will be needed to achieve your desired result.

Communicating With Your Stylist

Clear communication is crucial for getting the color you want. Before your appointment:

1. Learn some basic hair color terminology to describe what you want (terms like warm, cool, ashy, golden, etc.).
2. Be specific about your hair history, including recent chemical treatments, box dyes, or professional services.
3. Discuss your maintenance comfort level honestly — are you willing to return for frequent touch-ups or do you need something low-maintenance?
4. Share your typical styling routine so your stylist can recommend colors that will look good with how you normally wear your hair.

Using tools like RetouchMe can help you explore options beforehand, but be open to your stylist’s professional advice about achieving your desired look in the healthiest way possible for your hair.

Your stylist wants you to leave happy with results that you’ll continue to love even after you leave the salon. By bringing accurate, filter-free references and maintaining open communication throughout the process, you’ll be much more likely to get exactly the shade you’re dreaming of.