Daveon starts his first cut of the day after walking into the Hudson complex Friday morning. Ashton Haynes, a regular client and friend of four years, is waiting for him.
I get a look at the tools Daveon laid out before starting the cut. Clippers, brushes, and cleaning supplies are all part of his mobile setup.
Daveon is always making sure his materials are up to date. He uses a combination of cleaning tools while working.
I snap a close-up of the guards and soft dusting brush Daveon keeps nearby. He uses these for blending and brushing off loose hairs as he cuts.
I notice the cape Daveon throws over Ashton — bold letters reading “Fade King.” That’s the title he reps every time he picks up the clippers.
I capture the full scene from across the room as Daveon sets up in Ashton’s living room. Most of his clients book him for house calls — being a mobile barber is part of his everyday grind.
Daveon locks in as he begins the cut. He’s been cutting since high school, and at 23, he’s got it down to a rhythm.
He glides the clippers with the grain to protect Ashton’s waves. With wave cuts, there’s no rushing — it’s all about flow and direction.
I get in close as Daveon hits Ashton’s crown area. Every pass is deliberate, showing how he keeps the wave pattern intact.
He switches guards mid-cut to get the right blend. The transitions are quick — barely noticeable — but they make the difference in the final result.
I catch him detailing Ashton’s temple. Daveon says symmetry is everything, especially when it comes to fades.
Daveon circles Ashton, checking every angle as he cuts. It’s all about making sure each side lines up clean.
He lines up Ashton’s front hairline with a steady hand. This is where the cut comes to life — sharp lines make the finish pop.
I take a top-down shot showing Ashton’s waves starting to form. The definition is setting in as the cut takes shape.
Ashton’s waves are fully in view now. Even without a mirror, you can tell the cut is locked in.
I focus in tighter on the crown. The waves are clean and connected — that fresh cut feel before it’s even done.
Daveon brushes off loose hairs, revealing the pattern underneath. Every detail helps the waves hit harder.
Ashton gets a chance to relax his head, as Daveon is looking for his next set of clippers. Barbers usually use over 3 clippers at a time.
Daveon keeps cutting from an angle where the balcony view peeks through behind him. Natural light and a clean fade — both hitting just right.
I step out on the balcony to take in the fresh air while the cut wraps up. We’re on the third floor, and the view’s just as chill as the vibe inside.
