We caught up with the Australian beard model and photographer Jason McNally , Check out his interview here and learn about some exciting future plans ahead.
Can you try and give our readers a bit of a background on yourself, a quick spill about things you are into?
My name’s Jason McNally and I’m a 31 year old photographer, model and beard enthusiast from Melbourne, Australia. My photography journey started in 2009 as a hobby, it wasn’t until 2012 when I relocated to the wonderful city of Melbourne that I truly took it on in a professional sense. Here I began meeting and working with so many inspiring individuals who optimised my passion for photography. Recently I’ve decided to step in front of the camera and experiment , and I’m enjoying translating my mannerisms and style into imagery. It’s also great to meet so many great and collaborate with so many great people.
Any other interests?
Nothing beats a night out drinking whiskey and listening to some timeless blues. And of course the occasional golf game, for the sportsman in me.
Can you try to take us through your daily routine when it comes to beard care?
Not all beards style well on clean hair, so I encourage anyone to test this out themselves before establishing a routine. I start my day by detangling my beard with a comb or brush, followed by some Blank Slate natural oil. After this I rub in my favourite beard oil (with its very masculine scent) from Apothecary 87. To keep everything tame and maintained throughout the day, I top it all off with some Scoop Deluxe beard balm.
Do you use products like oils and waxes?
I certainly couldn’t live without beard oil and beard balm. Those are the two must-have products for any bearded gent.
Do you have any specific brands that you prefer?
I’ve really enjoyed using ‘Apothecary 87’ products; each creation has a unique fragrance and a quality that I feel exceeds that of other brands. My supplier is the Bearded Stag, whose shelves are always stocked with my essentials.
Do you trim and maintain your facial hair on your own, or do you only let your barber handle it? Who is your ‘go to’ guy for trimming and maintenance?
From years of preserving my beard I have developed some techniques that keep my beardlooking its finest. But I do suggest that anyone looking to style and maintain their beard visits a professional barber; my personal barber is @smithzila from Brother Wolf ((@brotherwolf_) based in melbourne. When I need a good trim I visit those lads.
Do you feel as though your beard has opened you up to new opportunities?
My trusty beard is nine years old now, but beards were not always so popular! I suppose we can thank the new age facial hair trend for gaining my favourite asset such notoriety. It’s given me opportunities to model and gained me several magazine publications. Through such things, I’ve met and worked with some fantastic people. Not to mention it’s quite the conversation starter!
We see that you are a photographer, do you prefer being behind the camera or in front?
In the past I’ve relished in being a professional photographer but I’m enjoying being in front of the lens more so of recent times. However, I like balance and still photograph often on collaborations.
What’s next for Jason McNally? Any big plans in the works?
In the next few months I’ll be linking up with the Bearded Stag, and following that I hope to travel to Europe and collaborate with some exciting brands. My trip will also include photography and modelling, which you can check out on my instagram @jasemcnally.
What is the one bearded piece of wisdom you would like to share with our readers?
Don’t compare your beard to others; after all they come in many different shapes and sizes and the key is to embrace the diversity. You go rock that beard lads, wear it with pride!
Lastly, which are your favourite Instagram pages that you can’t live without?
For all beardspiration check out: @chrisjohnmillington, @the_bearded_stag ,and @apothecary87.