Heading To The Salon? Here’s How To Choose The Right Inspo Pics

We’ve all been there — scrolling Pinterest or Instagram, saving a dreamy blonde balayage or that “expensive brunette” look that feels so right for the season. Bringing a reference photo to your hair appointment is a great way to visually communicate your goals — but it’s important to know that not all inspo pics are created equal.

As a colourist, my job isn’t just to recreate a photo — it’s to translate your vision into a version that actually works for your hair. That means assessing your natural base, skin tone, hair texture, current condition, and how much time (and budget) you want to commit to upkeep. Because the truth is, no matter how beautiful the reference photo is, it has to align with your real hair — not just your dream hair.

One of the biggest challenges in the salon is managing unrealistic expectations. Sometimes the inspo photo you bring in has been edited or shot in perfect golden hour lighting. Other times, it features a model with completely different hair type or starting level. A creamy blonde on a level 8 base will require a very different approach than trying to lift a deep brunette to the same tone — and sometimes, it may not be achievable in one session, or without compromising your hair’s health.

That’s why choosing a reference photo that aligns with your natural features is so helpful. If your hair is naturally dark and coarse, look for inspo on women with similar depth and texture — so we can aim for rich, multi-dimensional colour that enhances what you already have. If you’re a blonde who wants to go cooler or brighter, we’ll look at reference points that match your current level and underlying pigment, and build a realistic plan to get there safely.

I always recommend bringing 2–3 photos:

• One for tone (do you want warm caramel, neutral beige, or cool ash?)

• One for placement (do you love face-framing highlights or a lived-in root?)

• And one for cut or style, so we know how you want the final result to fall.

Together, we’ll break down what’s actually happening in those photos and tailor a version that works for you — without overpromising or compromising your hair health. Because a successful colour isn’t about copying someone else’s hair — it’s about enhancing yours in a way that feels authentic, modern, and effortless.

So keep saving those dream pics — just be open to the conversation behind them. When we work together with realistic goals, beautiful hair is not only achievable — it’s sustainable, long-lasting, and totally you.