British hairdressing awards: advice for a perfect shoot

There's more than just hair to consider when putting together a photoshoot. Past BHA winners and experts share their advice on other aspects that are just as important.

The Models: Darren Bain, HOB Salons

"One of my biggest mistakes when I first started was to use non-professional models. Although the hair was great, they didn't know how to work the camera and never did the hair justice. Professionals just feel the mood of the shoot. They know how to breathe and relax which is vital in making a shot work. Make the models feel like part of the team. Show them the mood boards and how you want them to move. It is important to make your model feel relaxed and comfortable. Lastly, it is essential to choose a girl who enjoys changing her look and is open minded; a model who only wants a trim will not work."

The Photographer: Jown Rawson

"Choosing the right photographer is paramount to creating a great collection. It's important to choose a photographer with good contacts and agency connections. Choose someone whose style you like, then arrange to meet them - it's not just about their work but also your relationship. You need to work with someone who understands what you want and wants to do the project with you - you don't want to be fighting against someone to get your vision across. When you are booking a photographer, also think about the support system -  I have a great PA who organises bookings, casting and entries for me, and I have an assistant/digital operator who has worked with me for a long time. This means I am free to concentrate on creating a fabulous image."

The Story: Phil Smith

"The inspiration behind my last collection was a new movement in fashion, with a confident edge in the younger generation. I wanted to use this sense of self-assurance and translate it into strong, powerful shapes. Having a story is important as it helps you focus, and everyone understands the end vision. Create a mood board that has the same feel as your vision; don't copy someone else's image but do be inspired by the mood of the picture. Set the scene with your mood board by gathering lots of tear sheets, fabric swatches and sketches - anything that represents your vision. Your story can be simple or complicated, depending on where your inspiration has come from, but always remember it is a hair story - not fashion or beauty. All the elements need to work in harmony without outshining the hair. Be guided by the experts you have chosen to work with but don't compromise what you want to achieve."

The Team: Neil Smith, Barrie Stephen

"Having the right team is essential for a successful shoot. You need people who will get behind your vision and enhance it with their expertise. Take the photographerwith you to the castings as you'll pick girls whose hair suits your ideas, and the photographer can flag up girls who will look dynamic or photogenic on camera. It's worthwhile casting the other team members too, so you can see a selection of styles and choose the people who best fit your vision. A shoot is a big financial commitment, so try to get the best out of how far your money can stretch. Always book a professional make-up artist and photographer as you don't want gorgeous hair to be let down by overpowering make-up, or bad retouching. People with experience of shoots are always great team members as they make the whole process run smoothly because they know what's expected. If you're putting together a team for the first time, look through hair magazines and not down whose work you like; then you can start to build your own dream team."