The Great Scratch Shoot Out: Meet the judges

By Kat Hill | 09 November 2019 | Expert Advice, Feature

Shoot Out Judges 1200

The Great Scratch Shoot Out is judged by the Scratch team. Each entry is individually considered by the team, so ensure your image is truly eye catching to score highly and stand out. The panel boasts a keen eye for photographical prowess, as well as know how when it comes to nail style.

Hear what the team will be looking for…


Kat Hill, competition organiser & assistant editor

“My winning entry will be a unique shot and something we haven’t seen before. I want to see a concept where every detail has been thought about and considered. Whether that theme is outlandish or subtle, I want to see an image that is refined and harmonious – with a perfectly paired nail look. The composition should see every element working together and in balance to create an overall striking entry.

“I applaud any nail professional that takes on the challenge of competitions and the chance to try something new. Seizing career opportunities like this could lead anywhere! I look forward to seeing your entries.”


Helena Biggs, editor

“I’m seeking an image that’s shot with precision and styled to perfection. I want to see something that isn’t a typical nail pose; I’d love to see a shake-up of the norm and be excited by a stylised shot that is fresh, new and sends a message without words.

“Muted or bold, with either a sophisticated overlay or adorned enhancements; it doesn’t matter to me – it’s about the fitting of the nails within the story, and how well that story translates.”


Sophie Nutt, news & feature writer

The Great Scratch Shoot Out is an incredible opportunity to get creative with a team of talented professionals and produce something amazing!

“When judging this year’s entries, I’ll be looking for images that instantly capture my attention and really ‘wow’ me. At first glance, the image needs to have a prominent and perfectly executed theme that is thread through the clothing, make-up, set, lighting, hair and nails.

“Beyond this I’ll be checking the attention to detail throughout the image. Is the nail design flawless? Is the cuticle area and surrounding skin healthy? Does the make-up application meet a professional standard?

“Finally, I’ll be asking the question ‘Could this be a Scratch cover?’ – and if the answer is yes, then the image could be in for a very good chance of winning!”


Alex Fox, editor-in-chief

“I have a keen eye for the unusual and the daring. I like to see interesting camera angles, great lighting techniques in use and strong composition.

“The nails must be flawless and fit with the theme of the overall image. They must be obvious, but not over accentuated. The model must have stunning hands and fingers, so the nails are an extension of something that’s already beautiful to behold.
“I love it when a nail image delivers something I’ve never seen before. It’s, for me all about imagination, since nail skills are already honed; it’s what the tech does next that intrigues me. Choosing the theme and making it happen in an unusual and eye-catching capacity is key for me.”

Jess Wilkie, art editor

“I’ll be looking for an age that is eye-catching. that excited me and screams orginaility. It must be imaginative and finished to the highest quality, with great attention to detail. Everything must work perfectly together: the nail design, the pose, the styling, the model.

“I love an entry to push the boundaries of design and a tech that has created a concept different to the norm. Is it a cover-worthy image? If it encapsulates the Scratch vibe then it’s a winner of me.”


Click here for more info about The Great Scratch Shoot Out!