What makes an image stand out, win awards and adorn the cover of magazines? As editor of Hairdressers Journal, I chose the images for the cover for more than 15 years - and while some of the images I loved, some weren't to my taste but made for a fabulous cover image. So what makes a great image? If you're putting together a collection here's some tips to ensure your images grab the attention of editors and judges around the world.

Sally Brooks, HJ's 2017 British Hairdresser of the Year

Keep it simple

Less is definitely more - some of the most beautiful images we see are simple. Clothes, make-up, hair and lighting are all kept to a minimum. A cluttered background detracts from the hair and extravagant make-up can appear cheap and amateurish.

A beautiful face

Model choice is imperative - a beautiful face can make a good haircut look great! However, not everyone can afford a professional model, so ensure the look suits your girl's facial features - a round bob doesn't sit well with a round face, so you may have to rethink your concept.

Avoid avant garde unless you're an expert

Avant-garde styling should be like a piece of art - and unless you are an expert in creating intricate details, it's best to concentrate on a commercial collection. Branch-like spears and oversized hair is difficult to photograph - avant-garde hair should be beautiful, interesting and capture your imagination. Indira Schauwecker, Angelo Seminara and Mark Leeson have created some beautiful creative work that remains relevant and breath-taking.

Spend your money wisely

Photo shoots can be expensive so make sure you are creating a collection that editors will want to use and judges will mark high. You also want to be able to use the images in your marketing campaigns and to attract new clients - women want to see beautiful, feminine, fun and stylish images - so create a collection you can use once the competition is over.

Shoot for yourself, not a competition

Always shoot for you, not for a competition. Whether it is the British Hairdressing Awards, Most Wanted, Hair Awards or other industry awards, never shoot for the competition. Don't shoot to impress the judges; you have to be true to yourself and if you don't get shortlisted, have a collection you are proud of and can use on your website, social media and send to the press.