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If you’re a photographer working with models or shooting glamour portraits, learning how to use fans for blowing hair photography is an essential skill.
Blowing hair adds dynamic movement and energy to your images, but as every photographer knows, hair can be unpredictable. Adding wind into the equation can feel like a recipe for disaster—unless you have the right tools, techniques, and a little practice.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about blowing hair in studio photography. From the best types of fans to use to tips for keeping your model comfortable, we’ve got you covered.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Practice Makes Perfect
Mastering the art of blowing hair photography takes time and practice. Even experienced photographers don’t achieve perfection in every frame. For instance, one of the featured shots in this article took 42 frames to get right. So, be patient, experiment, and embrace the process.
I had my makeup artist start in front of my model on camera right and then had her progressively move more to the side of the model – which I realized I liked better and eventually came up with 5 shots that I was fond of.
Watch the video at the end of this article to see all five as well as video the foam core technique in use.
The foam core is a very deliberate process that does give you more control but requires an assistant to make it happen. Experiment with your assistant using the board from different angles and at different speeds. The possibilities are endless with this foam core fan.
Be sure to check out my article: The Best DIY Photography Reflector for Less Than $2.00
The Best Fans for Blowing Hair Photography
Choosing the right equipment is crucial for achieving stunning results. Here’s a breakdown of fan types to help you decide what works best for your studio.
1. Why Hair Dryers Don’t Work
Hair dryers are an ineffective option for studio hair blowing techniques. They lack the power to create dramatic hair movement and can make your model uncomfortable. Opt for better alternatives to enhance your shots.
2. Foam Core: The Budget-Friendly Option
For photographers on a budget, a $1.25 foam core board is an excellent tool for blowing hair in glamour portraits.
- How it Works: An assistant flips the foam core on cue to create a gust of air. This technique gives you control but requires precise timing.
- Pro Tip: Experiment with angles and speeds to achieve different effects.
3. The 15″ Black Floor Fan
This affordable fan is ideal for creating subtle hair movement in three-quarter or full-length shots. It’s a versatile, AC-powered fan with three speed settings. Use it at full power for the best results.
4. The Voice-Activated Fan (Assistant-Operated Fan)
Small handheld fans, often USB-powered, are great for precise adjustments. They’re perfect for studio hair blowing techniques when you have an assistant who can follow directions closely.
5. High-Velocity 20-Inch Floor Fan
If you’re aiming for dramatic hair movement or to blow fabric for added effect, this High-Velocity 20-Inch Floor Fan is your go-to fan. Just be mindful of its power in small spaces. I also use this fan to blow around the material you frequently see flying around in my photos.
Pro Tip: This fan will migrate while running if your floor has a smooth surface like tile or wood. Place a small bathmat underneath. The rubber bottom of the bathmat will keep it from moving around so that the airflow stays where you want it, and it will allow you to work without an assistant if necessary.
6. Professional Studio Fans
For photographers looking to invest in premium equipment, consider these options:
Cowboy Studio Hair Fan: Compact and powerful, with a focused airflow for precise control. It sells for $99.00. It is AC powered with a 2,600RPM motor and it has a dial controller for speed. I like the fact that the front is like a snoot that focuses the air into a smaller space and gives you more control. This is a fan that I would use in front of the model and slightly below the lens to blow the hair backwards.
The Blow-it Fan: Highly adjustable and perfect for directing airflow to specific areas, like under the model’s hair.
This is probably the most versatile fan in my collection. The Blow-it Fan was originally designed for drummers so that they could attach it to their drum kit and remain cool while playing. This is an AC powered three speed fan with a 3,300 rpm motor.
It clips on to any light stand or pole and has a flexible arm that provides both directional and angled adjustments for precise targeting. I love the fan because I can quickly adjust the angle or height and even get it right under a model’s face to blow hair up.
If you’d like to see more behind the scenes of these hair shots – be sure to follow me on Instagram @joeedelman for lots of behind the scenes images and video clips.
Tips and Techniques for Blowing Hair Photography
1. Prioritize Model Comfort
Your model’s comfort is critical for successful hair fan photography. Here are some tips:
- Use the minimum amount of airflow needed to achieve the look.
- Provide a space heater to counteract the chill from the fan.
- Discuss contact lenses with your model in advance, as fans can dry out their eyes.
- Encourage natural blinking to prevent tears and eye irritation.
2. Monitor for Tears
Keep tissues or a makeup artist nearby to address watery eyes. Watch for extra catchlights pooling in the corners of your model’s eyes through your viewfinder.
3. Test Fan Placement
When testing fan positions, ask your model to keep her eyes closed. This reduces stress and prevents eye dryness while you adjust the setup.
Be sure to check out my article: How To Shoot a Hair Flip and Make It Look Awesome!
Safety Considerations
1. Choose the Right Fan for Your Studio
Avoid using overly powerful fans in small spaces, as they can cause turbulence, knock over equipment, or blow debris into your model’s eyes. Always prioritize safety when setting up for studio hair blowing photography.
2. Plan and Execute Deliberately
Great results come from careful planning and precise execution. Take your time to stabilize equipment and test airflow to avoid accidents.
FAQs About How to Use Fans for Blowing Hair Photography
What is the Best Fan for Glamour Portraits?
The right fan depends on your goals. For subtle movement, the 15″ floor fan works well. For dramatic effects, try a high-velocity fan or the versatile Blow-it Fan.
How Do I Prevent My Model’s Eyes From Watering?
Minimize direct airflow toward the face, encourage natural blinking, and have tissues or a makeup artist ready to blot tears.
Can I Use a Hair Dryer for Blowing Hair Photography?
No, hair dryers lack the power and versatility needed for dynamic hair movement. Stick to fans designed for studio use.
Conclusion
Learning how to use fans for blowing hair photography can take your glamour portraits to the next level. Whether you’re using a foam core board, a portable fan, or a professional-grade wind machine, the key to success lies in practice, preparation, and attention to detail. Remember, your model’s comfort and safety should always come first.
I hope you found this information useful. Now go pick up that camera and shoot something! Because – “Your BEST shot is your NEXT shot!” — Joe Edelman
Examples of Hair Blowing Images
This gallery contains blowing hair photography images created with fans and foam core boards.
Click thumbnail to enlarge full image
