How to Create Compelling Characters

I could brag about how naturally character creation comes to me, but I’ll stay humble about it. What I will tell you is that this is my favorite part of crafting a story. And this blog post isn’t just for writers—it’s for those who want to create something that comes to life.

Let’s face it, crafting a captivating character isn’t just for us writers; it’s for storytellers. Whether you’re an author, filmmaker, or someone who shares stories in any form, the ability to bring characters to life is a skill worth learning.

CHOOSING HOW TO TELL YOUR STORY

Creating compelling characters starts with deciding how you want to tell their story. I can’t tell you what medium to choose from, but I can offer you some options.

You could choose to write a novel, perform in a play, act in a film, paint a portrait, or sing a song. You might want to be a model, an executive producer, an animator, even a fashion designer—each medium requires a different approach, but the idea of creating a compelling character stays the same.

Based on whatever you choose, your question is: how can you make them feel real to your audience?

HOW TO TELL YOUR STORY

The way you tell your story matters just as much as the character. To tell a story you need a brand . This isn’t just about how you choose to tell your story —it’s about choosing something unique about you and adopting that style.

A lot of aspiring artists miss this part. Whether you’re a writer, actor, or filmmaker, your brand sets you apart. Even as a freelancer, your brand is how people identify you. They recognize you from your unique style and expertise.

Once you know your brand your next step is to grow bigger: how can you use that brand to build something lasting?

WORKING TO BE MEMORABLE

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly is a brand and how do I choose mine?”

Well, I can help you with that. But first, allow me to introduce myself—I’m Michaela Hayes, your favorite romance author, and yes, this is my brand.

Before you ask how is stating that I’m somebody’s favorite author a brand, well, I chose the form of entertaining I want to do, which is writing novels.

Saying I’m your favorite romance author? That’s branding.

That’s what makes me memorable.

To finish my introduction, I’m earning a B.A. in Creative Writing. I’m proud of my GPA, but the truth is: you don’t need a degree in creative writing or film to build a memorable brand. It helps, of course, but it’s your passion, creativity, and consistency that will make you stand out in any field.

BUILDING A LEGACY

You know what a brand is now, but let’s break it down further. Let’s say you want to become a model—great.

Your question might be now, “What is my brand as a model?”

Your appearance, your attitude, and how you carry yourself. Are you edgy, elegant, playful, high-fashion, or street-style? Your brand isn’t just how you look—it’s the message you give off. It’s the feeling people associate with you. And the more intentional you are about it, the more memorable your legacy becomes.

Let’s look at an example—Naomi Campbell. Naomi is known for being a trailblazer for Black models. She’s also known for being a sassy, intelligent, and experienced woman who's been walking down the runway for more than two decades. She’s a high-fashion, chic, and elegant model who will forever be known.

Another example is Ariana Grande—an icon. But what makes her iconic? I can tell you—it’s not just the riffs and runs she can make, but it’s also her appearance. It was her girl-next-door look in the early 2010s, to her street-style in the late 2010s, all the way to her 60s elegant vibe now. She’s a trend setter.

BRANDING MAKES YOU ICONIC

Let’s now discuss us writers: Stephen King—you know him as the author who makes chills run down your spine. His stories probably make your stomach churn—but in a good way.

Stephen King earned his title as the King of Horror for a reason. He makes immersive worlds with immersive characters. Which makes your final question for me, “Why does this all matter?” Because your characters and world is what completes your brand.

Your brand is a title or thing that rings true to you.

If you lean into your passion and creativity while crafting an unforgettable world and characters for your novel, not only will your novel be iconic, but so will you with your brand.