How to organise a nail photoshoot in 10 steps

Entering Scratch’s annual photographic nail competition – The Great Scratch Shoot Out? Here we reveal ten top tips for a smooth shoot day and beyond…

1. Choose your concept

Unleash your creativity and showcase your originality, style and imagination with your concept. One the most important factors of your shoot, your theme and concept will help your entry stand out. From a simple idea to an elaborate theme, think about what you’re hoping to convey with your image.

Having an idea, concept or mood board will help to ensure a united, harmonious image, influencing your nail look, as well as your model and styling choices. A clearer image of what hoping to achieve will also help you share and communicate your vision with your team. 

2. Nail your design

In line with your concept, work on your nail design in advance. Whether you decide to work on press-ons to be worn on the day or create your design on set, ensure you’re clear in what you’re creating and be realistic in your timing. The nail design in your image is one of the key focuses of this competition; it needs to be completed to the highest standard and your design needs to pull together your theme.

3. Know the criteria

In the whirlwind of creativity, be sure to also pay close attention to the rules. If you’re creating an image especially for a competition, it pays to know the criteria your entry will be marked against. After all, every point counts in a competition!

The Great Scratch Shoot Out judging panel carefully score each entry individually to the criteria – click here to read it in full.

4. Pick your photographer

Start the hunt early; make enquiries with local photographers or seek recommendations. Try to speak in person to gage their passion and enthusiasm. Ensure their work is of a high quality, both in terms of their photographic work but also their processes and post-production. Do you like their individual style and their previous work in their portfolio?

Be clear in what you’re hoping to achieve with your image, your expectations and project’s timeline. Also, be ready to show them your nail work and concept. As a collaborative project, be sure to heed their advice and listen to their suggestions; they know their skillset and equipment best.

Discuss your budget and don’t forget ask about any additional costs, such as retouching or expenses on the shoot day.

5. Selecting your model

As the face – or hands – of your image, your model choice is an important one. Your model should tie together your concept and highlight your hard work. Consider using a modelling or talent agency for a reliable, professional process. If your clients, friends and family members are an aspiring model, they too may also be another option. Be open to referrals or suggestions from your photographer or styling team. Be sure to get a signed model release for the images produced.

6. Assemble your styling team

Great hair and make-up don’t happen by accident, so consider taking on stylists to help bring your concept to life. Seek out local networking events for creatives or do your research into surrounding businesses. Approach local make-up artists and hair stylists who’s work you admire and see if they are available. If you’re on a tight budget, consider working with your local college to help keen students gain insight and experience.

As with the other creatives involved in the project, be clear with your aims for the image. Share your mood board or images that inspire you. If you’re planning a natural look to your images, glittering blue mermaid-inspired make-up won’t work. Communication is key.

7. The location & logistics

As soon as you’ve assembled your team, set the date and location liaising with them. Keep communication open and ensure everyone receives the details of who else is involved, as well as where, when and what to bring. A day or two before the shoot, contact your team to confirm details and answer any last-minute questions.

Select your location carefully, ensuring it fits with your concept and theme. Your photographer may have a studio for use that comes as part of their package offering.

8. The shoot day

Allow time for proper hand and nail preparation. Pay close attention to your application, as well as the skin around the nail and hand. Also ensure the make-up and hair team have time for their prep as well.

Don’t be afraid to speak up at the shoot – you know your vision and how you want to showcase your nail work. The model’s pose should pull focus to the nail design to score well. Listen to the team around you, too. They may have suggestions or spot things you haven’t.

No photoshoot comes without its challenges; take things that go awry as a challenge. Most importantly, have fun! Your image should help showcase you, your passion and hard work. Keep the set upbeat and happy and this will show in your images.

9. Enter!

When your entry is ready to be submitted, click here! Via the online form, you’ll be able to upload your high-resolution or 300dpi images in their A4 format. Entry costs just £25 per image submitted and the fee can be paid online via the form.

10. Shout about it

The final photos will help build your portfolio of work and bolster your marketing, perfect for attracting new clients and exciting career opportunities.