HJ INSPIRATION
BEHIND THE LENS Illuminate
Jon Wilsdon shares the story behind his British Hairdressing Award 2024 winning collection Illuminate
What do you love about this collection?
I love that it’s the product of collaboration and a reflection of the kind of hair I love to do. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to shoot what you think the judges want to see, but my best work happens when I focus on creating a collection of beautiful images. I also love that there’s a hint of retro fashion with contemporary hair. David (the photographer), Borna (the stylist) and Kelly (the make-up artist) brought the inspirations and mood boards to life.
What was the inspiration for the hair?
The hair inspiration was about synergising bold shape and colours and the impact that light has on this. I’m very inspired by colour, and at TONI&GUY we shoot a lot in pairs, teaming up stylists and technicians. Francesco Fontana did the incredible colour work for the collection and our ideas connected perfectly.
How did you set up the shoot?
A huge part of the work in shooting is preparation – looking at the budget and how I’m going to split that between models, photographer, make-up and stylist to get a collection of eight images. I always prepare mood boards for photography, lighting, make-up, hair, styling and poses. It’s important everyone is briefed and when booking the team, it’s about utilising people’s strengths. I always have an idea of what hair I want to shoot, but I try not to be too rigid – sometimes a model can turn up with an amazing attitude and look that inspires. Having the right team and backstage vibe is key, you need people that are going to bring the best out in each other. Practising looks before the day gives you an idea of timings. If you’re new to shoots, make as many contacts as possible and you will naturally gravitate towards your people. Finally, test shoots help you to get an eye for photographic hair – hair on and off camera looks different.
Did anything go wrong on the day?
Luckily no, but things do happen. Someone may be sick, hair that you thought would shoot well might not so it’s about being flexible and having a plan B ready.
What’s a significant memory from the day?
At the end of the shoot, I was looking at my favourite selects of images on David’s laptop, and I got a little emotional. I remember thinking how will I pick my final eight and how will I pick my first four? Honestly, it’s the best feeling when you see ideas come alive and I have the whole team to thank for this.