FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT
How You Can (Still) Enter Your Look
Life’s been one wild ride lately. Still, we’re doing our best to look to the future and make the most out of every day! As this “new normal” sets in, we’ve realized spending time inside doesn't have to mean taking time off from our passions. While staying safe in your home, you can still grow your skills and showcase your creative vision by entering BEA 2020!
For years, the Beauty Envision Awards have celebrated our industry and the creative potential within each of us. The competition is still on –– and even while social distancing, you can bring your entry to life! All it takes is a little creative thinking and your old BFF: the mannequin.
Tip 1: Prep Your Equipment - For most of us, it’s been months (if not years) since we’ve worked on our mannequins. The first step to starting your in-house BEA entry is getting your equipment back in shape.
For stylists, wash and detangle your mannequin’s hair. Just as you would on a client, use your best shampoo & conditioner to prep the hair for your work.
For nail artists, remove any old remnants from your mannequin. Prep for your new look by adding tips and painting a fresh base.
Tip 2: Faux & For Real: Know the Difference - For stylists, it’s important to consider what type of hair you’re working with and how it might affect your look.
Mannequin heads typically come with one of three hair types: human, animal, or synthetic. Animal and synthetic hair are less apt to taking color and, thus, might affect the outcome of your look.
If your mannequin doesn’t have human hair, we highly recommend investing in new supplies to give you the best results. Place an order for a new mannequin, color, and any additional tools you need to bring your vision to life.
Tip 3: Shoot Your Shot - After you’ve showcased your skills and created your look, it’s time to plan your photoshoot. Take a few extra steps to best showcase your vibrant color, daring cuts, or artistic nail designs.
Start by making your work the focal point of the photo.
Avoid busy backgrounds filled with supplies, furniture, or other distracting elements and instead, take the photo on a solid background.
Illuminate with the proper lighting (we recommend natural or ring light). Doing so preserves the power of your look and will help make the best impression on our judges.
Tip 4: The More the Better - By getting creative with your focus, you’ll not only have plenty of options to choose from, but also find new, interesting ways of exhibiting your look.
During your photoshoot, take extra time to capture photos from various angles and depths.
Include shots from all sides, front, and back.
Scan your variety of shots to find the perfect photo that represents your talent and achievement.
Tip 5: Crop It Like It’s Hot - Finally, remember that photo entries will be submitted through Instagram, meaning proportions are key.
To avoid losing part of your look in the editing process, shoot your photos in portrait (9:16) or square.
Remember to leave ample “dead space” around your look to better ensure the full power of your look and prevent any aspect from being cut out of the photo.
Edit any excess space and distractions from your photo, but never distort your work.
They don’t call us artists for nothing. We’re getting creative when it comes to preserving our passion. Consider these tips when you’re crafting your entry and remember to submit your photos before May 22.
If you’re wondering where to get started, reference your category’s Pinterest board. Then, add the category’s hashtag and tag @wellaeducation in your caption. Votes on our website count towards your final score, so encourage your friends to spend some of their extra screen time supporting you and your career! We know a new generation of visionaries is out there (or rather, in their homes). Show us what you can envision!