Profile: Nick Pagano, editorial excellence

For Nick Pagano, Goldwell National Artist, Color director & Co-Owner @ I.d salon New York, it’s all about the journey.

Nick Pagano is featured regularly in EsteticaUSA, having contributed spectacular editorial images and collections that are hard to resist. His work as a Goldwell National Artist and Master Colorist is always fresh, original and inspirational. As co-owner of I.d. Salon in New York, where the team is committed to helping each client express themselves though hair fashion. Moreover, Nick is a top-notch educator, sharing his know-how and experience selflessly with others to help them reach their aspirations.

I asked Nick about his hairdressing journey, and about the evolution of his editorial work. I noticed that over the years his models had gone from beautiful to glamorous to fierce. Some perhaps because new products and techniques had become available that made it possible for him to bring his vision to life. But maybe also because creativity also implies growth.

How did you get out from behind the chair and into editorial work?

My journey into the world of editorial work began in the vibrant West Village of New York City. This is where I had the privilege of collaborating with talented friends and mentors who have since since become industry luminaries. While working on set, I gained invaluable experience in the intricacy of artistic direction. There is timing, lighting, makeup that must all be taken into consideration. Moreover, I received guidance from photographers, designers and stylists. Our singular goal focus was to capture the perfect shot and evoke genuine emotion. All this helped me layer the foundation for my career in editorial photography.

Demure Glamour 2012-2015

How do you find the right photographer to bring your vision to life?

Choosing photographers depends on your project.

Many times I do the shooting just to have professional photos of my creative ideas. This arena allows me to be the creative director of this photo shoot. It’s always useful to collaborate with like-minded artists who are willing to test shoot to build their portfolio. I look for photographers who are up-and-coming and want to be involved in creative projects. On this type of photo shoot I’m shooting editorial beauty shots, Hair, MUA, Mood & emotion.

And for collections for competitions?

If I’m photo shooting for a competition, I like to work with a professional photographer who has experience, knowledge and knows the competition game. The photographer takes you through the creative process and is capable of giving you suggestions & direction based off your inspiration. This process comes with a team of creative professionals that includes photo studio, photographer, stylist and makeup artist. It a beautiful thing.

Getting darker 2017

Credits: Hair design & styling: Nick Pagano National Artist Goldwell, co-owner i.d Salon NYC; Photo: Andrea Urbinati, SoAm Studio: Marzia Gamba; Make-up & Styling: Cheryl Esposito

How has your experience with KAO and Goldwell driven your career?

My role with Goldwell/KAO has been amazing over the past 13 years. I have learned and experienced so many different creative processes with so many best-in-class creative artists.

As a member of the Goldwell Artistic in the category of show team, I have had the amazing fortune to be a part of the Goldwell Global Creative Collections in 7 countries. Goldwell collections over the years have been brilliant.

We trained with our Global Artists and recreate the collection in many different categories. Then we share it with our fellow hairdressers at Goldwell creative events all over the world. This is an elevated creative experience. I love the collaboration with other creatives its exciting and inspirational

Warriors

What is your favorite category of editorial collections?

My love for Avant Garde is without a doubt is my strongest category. It encompasses hair cutting, hair color and styling. I have a wide variety of tastes for the new the unusual, including vintage inspiration leaning towards androgyny.