Expert advice for styling a photo shoot

With an idea of the perfect image in your head, bringing it to life means working with a team of people who share the same vision. With tear sheets, ideas and inspiration all put together on a mood board, it is easy for everyone to envisage the end result.

Despite the focus being on the hair, it is essential all elements of your collection work together, including the clothes and make-up.

A natural theme of nudes and beiges in floating chiffon-like material needs to be complemented by the make-up; thick eyeliner and bright red lips will look out of place. And although you might think you have a great style, recreating it on a model is harder than it seems.

Being a follower of fashion and great with accessories doesn't always qualify you to style on a photo shoot - a professional stylist can bring a valuable new dimension to a collection.

Bernard Connolly has worked on many hairdressing shoots with some of the most creative names in the industry, including Tracey Devine, Errol Douglas and Royston Blythe.

"When selecting a fashion stylist for a photo shoot, the most important consideration is to ensure that the quality of garment and diversity of styling can enhance the look of your model - you won't get images that make the most impact by booking a stylist who will provide high-street fashions for an avant-garde look. Even if you intend to shoot head and shoulders, it can be advantageous to consider scarves, jewellery or a key upper garment.  

"A fashion shoot is vastly different and because of the requirement for cutting and presentation models (often not a standard size 10), it is imperative for the stylist to have a variety of clothes, looks and sizes. An experienced stylist will arrive with about four suitcases of clothes, shoes, accessories and styling kit, catering for any eventuality."

Angela Bernard

Stylist Angela Bernard has built a reputation within the industry as a respectable stylist, and works closely with leading photographers and hairdressers. 

"It's especially important with hair shoots to have the right styling, because you don't want to detract from the hair. A good stylist will have strong relationships with fashion PRs and go to the big catwalk shows"

Jiv

Stylist Jiv has worked on many award-winning collections and styles many of the TIGI campaigns, working closely with Anthony Mascolo, as well as being the fashion editor of Centrefold magazine. 

"Experience is everything when it comes to booking a stylist for a shoot. Knowing not only the current trends, but also how to deal with any problems on set is essential. It's also important to know what works in front of a camera. When looking for a stylist, meet a few people first and see who you get along with and who understands your ideas and vision. If you are on a small budget, ask for help and guidance and plan your shoot carefully."