Creating perfect editorial hair photography

Successful images are those that not only wow the judges at awards, they can also be used in in-salon marketing and have magazines fighting to publish them.

This image, which was part of Leo Bancroft's 2009 Southern Hairdresser of the Year award-winning collection ticks all the boxes.

Here we ask the image's stakeholder's what makes this look stand out from the crowd.

Hair stylist

HJ's 2009 Southern Hairdresser of the Year Leo Bancroft, Leo Bancroft Salons, Weybridge, Surrey

"This image represents two key trends for 2010: vibrant reds, and soft, textured waves. Both are huge news for the season and this image captures them perfectly. The bright red tones embody the move that we have seen to bolder and more vivid colours. It's striking and certainly turns heads."

Photographer

Desmond Murray

"The purpose of this shot was to focus attention on the model's hair and face. Having the model pose directly facing the camera creates a really strong look, but the texture and detail in the hair add a charming softness to the image."

Make-up artist

Jo Sugar

"The brief for the shoot was to portray the power of women, and I think this image captures it perfectly - it's a really strong look. I worked with a clean base and full nude lips, then concentrated the attention on the eyes. Smouldering yet bright, they lock you into the model's intense stare."

PR

Rachael Grieve, Alison Jameson Consultants

"This on-trend yet classic look has been reproduced across the world and is a trade and consumer favourite - hairdressers love it and clients want it. The cut, colour and finish are simple, yet detailed, and the vibrant red is so now. It's no surprise its popularity keeps on increasing."