Photographing HERR Barbershop

In the winter of 2013, HERR Barbershop opened as a new kind of space within Korean men’s culture. I was commissioned to photograph the barbershop shortly after its opening and document how craft, design, and atmosphere come together in this setting. HERR was conceived as Korea’s first classical barbershop, drawing inspiration from the jazz age of the 1920s. Rather than focusing only on grooming, the space was designed to offer a slower and more considered experience.

A Space Shaped by Craft

At its core, HERR moves away from the typical unisex salon model. Instead, it focuses on traditional barbering skills combined with a relaxed environment. Haircuts, wet shaves, and beard care all take place in a space designed for conversation and routine. While photographing the barbershop, I focused on small details. Tools, materials, and gestures reveal how much attention goes into each service. As a result, the images stay close to the process rather than the result alone.

Men’s Culture and Atmosphere

HERR is located in Hanam, not far from Seoul. The barbershop reflects a blend of tradition and contemporary life. Alongside grooming, the space invites clients to slow down, have a drink, and return regularly. This atmosphere shapes how people interact with the space. Through photography, I aimed to capture that sense of familiarity and calm rather than stage it.

Services and Daily Rhythm

The services at HERR include classic haircuts, hot lather shaves, and beard care. These routines follow a clear rhythm. Over time, this rhythm builds trust between barber and client. When photographing, I followed that pace. Instead of directing scenes, I observed how people moved, waited, and worked. This approach allowed the images to reflect everyday use.

Documenting the Space

As a photographer and filmmaker based in Seoul, I often work with spaces that sit between design and daily life. HERR Barbershop fits naturally into that interest. It is a designed environment, yet it only works through regular use. The photographs aim to show this balance. Architecture, furniture, and light support the experience, but the craft remains central.

Looking Back

Photographing HERR Barbershop became an exercise in restraint and observation. Rather than presenting it as a concept, the work documents how the space functions over time. Through photography, the project offers a quiet look at a place where grooming, craft, and men’s culture meet in a considered and unforced way.