Rules & Regulations

Before submitting your entry, ensure your image complies with the following terms & conditions.

The panel judge the entries looking at the competition’s criteria:

  • Instant impact: Does your image have a ‘wow’ factor that commands attention?
  • Originality of concept: Is your theme and image striking? Is it unusual and creative?
  • Execution of concept: From the styling to your model’s nails, has the whole look been well executed?
  • Clarity of photograph and nails: Is your image unblurry, clear and completely in focus? Are the nails well photographed? Is the whole image finished with post-production tweaks?
  • Use of colour and lighting: Does the lighting fit your theme and ensure the image makes an impact?
  • Nail finish: Is your nail design finished to perfection? Check they’re even in shape and form and pay close attention to the cuticles and skin surrounding.
  • Nail design: Does your nail design fit with your theme? How have you brought your concept to life?
  • Model, pose and positioning: Consider your model’s pose and hands – does it draw the eye to your nail design? Is your model a great fit for your concept?
  • Overall styling: Look at your whole image. From the hair to the make-up to the costume, has every detail been considered?
  • Cover worthiness: Can you see your shot on the cover of Scratch? If so, you might just have a winning image!

Terms & Conditions

  • Entry is open worldwide to nail professionals & creative teams.
  • Each entry costs £25 to submit.
  • No family members or employees of Scratch or Seed Publishing's associated brands can enter.
  • The judge’s decision is final.
  • Unpaid entries will not be accepted into the competition.
  • Entries submitted after the deadline (31.08.23) will not be accepted.
  • Entry photographs can be digitally enhanced or retouched.
  • Entries must be submitted in A4 format (210 x 297mm), landscape or portrait and high-resolution. Images may be cropped by organiser to fit required dimensions if not supplied to the correct dimensions.
  • Entries must not feature watermarks/business logos or any branding.
  • Feedback on entries must be requested between 17 October and 17 November 2023. The organisers reserve the right to withhold feedback after this date.
  • Multiple entries from one individual/team will be accepted.
  • Practice hands are permitted in shot.
  • Images photographed on mobile phones are permitted - but the entries submitted must be clear and in high resolution.
  • Entries must not have placed or received a prize or accolade in any other creative competition.
  • Scratch has the right to use any images submitted to the competition for its promotional purposes and in editorial coverage.
  • Entry fees are non-refundable.
  • Winners must refer to Scratch magazine when speaking/writing of the competition or commenting to press.

Questions? Email chloe.randall@scratchmagazine.co.uk