As the industry is taking on more and more of an artistic edge, it is artists like Reno Prezio that we can thank for the movement. Classically trained, with an apprenticeship at Vidal Sassoon, everything he learned was clean and technical. From there, he used his time behind the chair to develop his soft, sexy looks. Now, he appreciates everything from Victoria Secret styles to polished looks for competition work or even the avant-garde extreme. Keep reading to learn more about Reno as an artist and see his expansive skills as he translates hair and art!
What drew you to hair styling?
I’m an artist. So I love creating. I love building hair up from the foundation. To me creating a style is just another extension of my art.
What is your favorite technique to use?
The blowdry. Everything starts with a proper blow dry. I can take a curling iron, a flat iron, or a crimper to hair, but if you have the proper blow dry you can create anything.
What has been your biggest defining moment in your career?
It was entering the Revlon Style Masters competition. It was the very first competition I ever entered, and I won it. That’s what changed it all for me. After that, I was obsessed with styling hair for competition. After that, I developed many different techniques and love for all the different styles of hair.
Is there a specific area you often find yourself looking to for inspiration?
Not really. I find inspiration in everyday life. From my favorite artists, movies, architecture, and conversations with my team. When I’m sitting with my team and we’re talking about our next shoot, the sillier and more creative we get the more passionate we are about the project.
What is the one product/tool that you can’t live without?
I’d have to say I like hairspray and my curling irons. With my curling iron, I feel like I can achieve any look I want.
How did you work with your makeup/styling team to craft a final image?
It all starts with an idea, and us having long conversations about it. The more creative it is the more passionate we become. We try to outdo every past photoshoot we’ve ever done. We try to push each other more and more. We don’t have the word “no” in our vocabulary. We believe in each other and believe in our talents. Our strong team is the backbone.
What is your favorite styling habit of the moment?
Right now it’s all about clean technical looks. It is NAHA season, so I’m entering a few different shoots into it. At the moment, I’m loving flat wraps, leafing and beveling when it comes to blow drying. And a nice clean smooth flat iron with a little wind in the back to capture the perfect look
Who were your mentors along the way and how have they shaped your career?
I did my apprenticeship at Vidal Sassoon so I would say any of the educators who spend time building my foundation. And of course, my best friend and photographer Natasha Gerschon who if it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t be doing what I do. She is my greatest mentor and creative inspiration. She gives me the confidence to do what I do.
To see even more of Reno's amazing work, be sure to stalk him on Bangstyle!
