Cuts and community: Sensitive portraits from a Berlin barbershop

At a time when most social interactions happen through screens, spaces that foster IRL connection are becoming increasingly important. While the need for real-world interaction is universal, in this case, the story unfolds in Berlin’s Wilmersdorf district, where Black Excellence, a barbershop in an otherwise quiet part of the city, has become a cornerstone of the community.

Photographer Jakob Reimann set out to document this space, not by focusing on the haircuts themselves, but on the confidence they inspire. Over two and a half days, he photographed nearly 80 people, including schoolboys, athletes and musicians, each stepping out of the chair with a renewed sense of self. Beyond crisp fades and sharp line-ups, his work captures the deeper significance of the shop and the relationships that it fosters. As the owners put it, “There is so much happening online for younger generations that they sometimes miss out on meeting outside.” That absence of face-to-face connection is precisely what makes spaces like this essential.

While Wilmersdorf is often characterised by its understated pace, Black Excellence has become a nucleus in the neighbourhood. It is a place where people come not just for a cut, but for community. “They managed, in this short period of time, to create a place where everyone is welcome. All religions, all sexualities, everyone is treated the same, whether you’re a rapper, an athlete, or just a kid running over there on your lunch break,” Reimann says. Speaking to Dazed, the photographer discusses the importance of these spaces, the energy within Black Excellence and what he learned from documenting it.

What drew you to Black Excellence, and when did you realise it was more than just a barbershop?

Jakob Reimann: The moment they opened their shop, the whole vibe of the street I live on changed. It literally came alive! Whenever I left my flat, I saw these young men hanging out before the store, just vibing and having a great time, and they all looked amazing. In my mind, I was like, ‘Wow, I need to take portraits of them.’

So I walked over and wanted to show them my mood board and my idea and immediately met Malcolm and Abel, the owners. I was actually really nervous presenting my idea, but I have never felt so supported and welcomed. The warmth and energy these two have is unmatched. I think that’s when I first caught a glimpse of what’s actually going on. They are just very inspiring and motivating. And then, when the project started, I realised even more how much they care for their community and creating a space where you feel welcome, no matter who you are.

How does the barbershop create a sense of community, especially for young men?

Jakob Reimann: They managed, in this short period of time, to create a place where everyone is welcome. All religions, all sexualities, everyone is treated the same, whether you’re a rapper, an athlete or just a kid running over there on your lunch break! Additionally, they are all very open and are not afraid to ask questions.

In a digital world, do you think spaces like this offer something social media can’t?

Jakob Reimann: 100 per cent! When the project started, I realised how little I was actually thinking of this. Most of the people who go there are teenagers or young adults living in a world where everything gets faster and faster, and communication becomes more and more online. They don’t go just for the cuts. They go to meet, to chat, to make friends, to ask their questions, and get motivated or inspired. It slows down time and gets you away from the phone.

Did you notice a change in confidence after someone got a new cut?

Jakob Reimann: Oh yes! They were all pumped with energy and had massive smiles from ear to ear. You could tell they felt great and just had a massive boost of confidence. Some of them actually came with that energy already, they came with their best fits and knew they were just going to look even more fire after!

What’s the biggest lesson or insight you took away from documenting this space?

Jakob Reimann: Definitely how important it is to create a safe space for teenagers, young adults and adults. Actually, for everyone. A place where they can come, forget about social media, and just grow as human beings and come together.

Also, it’s great to jump over your own shadow. I was super nervous before I asked if they would be interested in that project, and they were the most open and heartwarming people I’ve met in a long time. They welcomed me immediately.

Do you think men today feel more pressure to be well-groomed?

Jakob Reimann: There probably is pressure in the beginning, and you might think to yourself you have to go. The media is presenting a lot of well-groomed people. But if you decide to go and do something for yourself and take some time for self-care, you will feel incredible after. And I think men realise how great it is to have the feeling of being well-groomed and looking after yourself so you feel better.