Three ways to tell a story through your collection
WHY SHOULD YOU DO A STORYBOARD?
A Contessa collection tells a story through images, and a storyboard ensures a coherent result. Rossa Jurenas, who has won several Contessas, owns Studio Rossa and is an Essential Looks artist for Schwarzkopf Professional, says, “Storyboards are crucial because they are the thought process that make everything come to life in a photo shoot. They keep you organized and guide you. They give direction and focus.”
Roch Lemay, director of education and events for Matrix Canada, adds that the strength of your collection is based on the strength of your research and storyboard.
WHERE DO YOU START?
Lemay suggests a good starting point is flipping through magazines and searching the Internet for inspiration. “Cut or print out all images that attract your attention at first glance; the ones that instantly mean something to you,” he says, adding that in this first phase you should keep an open mind and let your creativity reign free.
Jurenas also says it’s important to consider all the elements of your shoot—makeup, wardrobe, backdrops, models, lighting and photography. When Jurenas is planning her board, she likes to have a combination of magazine cut-outs, photos, drawings, and written thoughts so it’s clear what she’s aiming for.
Put all these images in a folder, give it a week and then come back and start the process of elimination. Lemay also advises that it’s important to take a close look at the past collections in the specific category you are entering to see if your concept fits. Both experts agree that the main thing is to use the storyboard as a reference and not to copy exactly what is in the photos you selected; let the storyboard assist you with your creation but present your own take on it.
WHO WORKS ON THE STORYBOARD?
“Too many people involved in the storyboard process can off-track your idea,” says Jurenas, who speaks from experience. “Work on it yourself or with your hair team first, then ask the others if they can achieve the look you are aiming for.”
Lemay says the people involved in the beginning stages should be the hairstylist and colourist, then the makeup artist and finally the photographer. Remember: the storyboard is there so the team can follow and accommodate your vision.
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