Michael Young: Emotion always comes first. If an image doesn’t create a feeling, it won’t connect

You’re recognised internationally as both a hairdresser and a photographer.

How has working at the highest level in hairdressing shaped the way you

photograph hair?

Hairdressing gives me an instinctive understanding of structure, balance, and detail. I don’t just see how hair looks — I understand how it’s meant to behave. That knowledge allows me to photographhair with intention and respect, while still pushing it creatively.

Your photography is often described as mood-driven. What usually comes

first — emotion, hair, or narrative?

Emotion always comes first. If an image doesn’t create a feeling, it won’t connect. Once the mood is clear, the hair and narrative naturally evolve around it.

Many photographers document hair, but your work elevates it into visual art.

How do you approach that?

Skill & artistry is a given, but it’s only the starting point. I approach every shoot as an

Individual project rather than a repeat of something I’ve worked on before . Hair can help tell a visual story —about attitude, mood, and restraint.

Looking back on a decade of awards and global publication, what’s been the

key to sustained success?

Consistency, passion, and collaboration. We never chase trends — we focus on craft, authenticity,and doing work we genuinely believe in. Staying curious is just as important as staying disciplined.

Collaboration sits at the heart of HOOKER & YOUNG. How would you

describe the creative dynamic within the Art Team?

It’s built on trust and shared values. Everyone understands each other’s strengths. There’s no ego— just a collective desire to create the best work possible.

How do you balance shared vision with individual creative freedom within

the team?

We all work from the same creative values, which gives us cohesion. Within that, everyone has the freedom to express ideas openly. That balance is what creates real synergy.

You’re a 17-time consecutive nominee for British Hairdresser of the Year.

What does that consistency represent to you?

It represents a commitment to our love of hair. Each year we approach the work with the same hunger and respect, always aiming to evolve rather than repeat ourselves.

Your images balance precision with atmosphere. How do you achieve that?

Restraint. Every detail has to serve the emotion of the image. When technical detail supports the mood rather than competing with it, the image feels effortless.

With an international audience, how do you stay authentic while evolving

creatively?

By creating work that excites us first – it needs to feel honest and authentic. If the work has depth and integrity, relevance follows naturally.

What challenges does photographing hair present that only a hairdresser truly understands?

Tiny details can completely change an image. A hairdresser understands

tension, movement, and balance instinctively — that knowledge is invaluable behind the camera.

What does your creative process look like when developing a new collection

with the Art Team?

It starts with conversation and shared ideas. From there, everything is built collaboratively. On set,there’s complete trust, which allows the work to evolve naturally and creatively.

Looking ahead, what still excites you about photography and the HOOKER &

YOUNG creative vision?

There’s always more to explore. As long as we stay passionate, curious, and collaborative, the work will continue to evolve — and that’s what excites me most.

Photographer: Michael Young @myhairphotography

Hair Stylist: Hooker & Young @hookerandyoung

Makeup Artist: Kirsten B @kirstenbmakeupartist