The British Hairdressing Awards are the pinnacle of recognition in our industry — and with good reason. They don’t just celebrate technical skill or creativity in isolation; they honour the complete story told through hair, photography, styling, and concept.
I’ve had the privilege of photographing many BHA collections over the years — some that have finalled, some that have won, and others that taught us what not to do. If you're planning your first (or fifth) submission, here’s what I’ve learned about what really makes a collection stand out.
---
1. It’s Not Just Hair — It’s a Visual Story
This can’t be overstated. The strongest collections tell a story — not necessarily a narrative, but a visual through-line. There’s a clear sense of mood, tone, and cohesion across all images.
Whether it’s bold and avant-garde or clean and commercial, the point is: everything should feel like it belongs together.
The hair, model selection, makeup, styling, lighting, and backdrop should all support a single creative direction. Mismatched elements? They’re often what keep a good collection from being a great one.
---
2. Technique Matters — But So Does Taste
Yes, the BHA judges are looking at technique. Precision cutting, expert colouring, strong finishes — it all counts. But here’s the nuance: it’s not just about technical perfection.
Style, innovation, restraint, and awareness of current trends matter too. I’ve seen collections lose points because they were technically brilliant… but creatively flat. Or overly busy. Or dated.
The judges don’t just want to be impressed. They want to be moved.
---
3. The Photographer-Stylist Relationship Is Everything
I always say this to stylists: choose your photographer like you’d choose a creative partner, not just a camera operator.
A good BHA photographer understands:
* How to light hair properly (for shine, shape, and detail)
* How to direct models to enhance your vision
* How to elevate your concept with the right visual treatment (clean, editorial, graphic, moody…)
We’ll also push back (in a good way) when something isn’t quite landing. We’re here to help you refine — not just shoot what’s in front of us.
---
4. Risk-Taking Wins — When It’s Thoughtful
Many winning collections share something in common: a moment of boldness. It might be an unexpected silhouette, a daring colour choice, or an unconventional styling direction.
But the key is ‘intention’.
If you're going to go bold, do it with clarity — not for shock value.
A “safe” collection might get you noticed. A brave, well-executed one gets you remembered.
---
5. The Details Will Make or Break You
Flyaways, mismatched makeup tones, off-kilter symmetry — they can all become distractions. Judges scrutinise every image. That’s why the little things really matter:
* Is the makeup flattering under pro lights?
* Is the hairline clean?
* Are the shapes consistent across the collection?
* Does each shot *earn* its place in the series?
And yes… retouching is allowed — but overdoing it will count against you. The goal is to enhance, not disguise.
---
6. Final Tips for Stylists Prepping Their First (or Next) Submission
Here’s my shortlist for clients gearing up for a BHA shoot:
* Start early - Last-minute collections rarely have the polish or planning they need.
* Build a moodboard with visuals, not just hair references.
* Cast models intentionally
* Book your team — makeup, styling, photographer — based on who fits your vision, not just availability.
* Don’t try to show everything you can do in one shoot. Focus, refine, and let the work breathe.
---
Final Thoughts: What the BHA Really Celebrate
The British Hairdressing Awards aren’t just about being the best stylist in the room. They’re about showing your creative voice, your vision, and your professionalism through a collection that holds together as a powerful whole.
As your photographer, my job isn’t just to shoot. It’s to help bring that vision to life in a way that connects with judges, with your peers, and with future clients.