Akin konizi gives valuable tips for curating the perfect collection

Akin Konizi is the HOB Academy international creative director and four time winner of the British Hairdresser of the Year title. His collections are admired globally with his work being published on the cover of high profile magazines across the world and is often reposted on social media by hairdressers and publications who admire his creativity Reflecting on his success he said, "I have been incredibly privileged to have worked with some amazing photographers over the years, and each of the collections are different and tell a different story". Although Akin believes that there are no rules when it comes to making a great collection, there are some things to keep in mind to give your work an added edge. So if you are working on your collection for the British Hairdressing Awards sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional have a read of Akin's tips below to help prepare!

Akin's top tips for creating a winning collection

1. Plan your moodboard before you start

This will give you your feel, your theme and your story.

2. Prepare like crazy

You can't over prepare for a shoot! There will always be something unexpected that happens, but the more you are prepares the less stressful it will be!

3. Be true to yourself

For an event such as the British Hairdressing Awards, don't shoot for the judges. Create a collection to showcases your skills and communicate your passion. "Imagery is subjective and what one person likes, another loathes. So you have to shoot for yourself and create a collection that represents you and your skills."Judges will be looking at skill rather than choosing something they personally like.

4. Think ahead

A photo shoot is costly, so decide what you will be using your images for after the competition. You may want to use them for press, marketing, your window displays - so bear in mind who your audience is. While you want to show your skills as a hairdresser, you also need the images to be commercial.

5. Use the experts around you

The team you have chosen to work with are all experts in what they do, so listen to their opinions. Concentrate on the hair and let them worry about what they're there to do. Of course, give your feedback and opinion but let them do their thing first.

6. Try to breathe

Stress will show in your photos and you will be disappointed by the results. There are plenty of people on a shoot so make sure everyone has a job and everyone there contributes in some way.

7. Find your own style

You can be inspired by someone else's work, but don't copy it. You can take a texture, shape or colour as an inspiration, but be sure to build on it to make it your own.

8. Have a production meeting

Gather all the team for a meeting in the morning to make sure everyone knows what is expected. Go through the mood boards with the models, photographer, makeup artist and all the hairdressers and assistants to make sure everyone is on the same page.

9. Keep the day positive

It's easy to fall into a negative hole if something isn't working. But stand back and start again. Try to look at it from a different angel or decide to move on.