TINA LIU TIEN-LAN has made her name over the past two decades creating striking album and magazine covers for the likes of Gong Li, Karen Mok, Jackie Chan and Leslie Cheung, but what gives her particular satisfaction these days is working with clients she describes as 'real people'.
Coming up with a new look for a celebrity is challenging and fun. It also guarantees the stylist a high profile and a level of acclaim in the world of movies and entertainment.
But no matter how eye-catching the look, one thing is certain: it will not last long. After a promotional campaign, concert tour or successful film, the artist's look will change again, in line with the unwritten rules of Hong Kong show business, which demands constant change and innovation.
These days, Ms Liu enjoys a real sense of achievement from helping members of the general public. She offers advice and suggestions on how to improve their image and approach life with confidence. This way she makes both an immediate difference and a long-term impact.
The moment of greatest job satisfaction for Ms Liu is when the client gets his/her first peek at the transformed look.
Last year, viewers of the ATV Home channel show Looking Good With Tina got an idea of just what can happen: some of the guests on the show were so happy with the results of their makeovers that they wept with joy.