An image of a man on fire, taken by award-winning content marketing agency Wardour, has been named best in class at the prestigious AOP Photographers Awards 2011.

Photographer: Sam Barker; art director: Rob Cuthbertson; picture editor: Johanna Ward; stuntman: Riky Ash

The image was conceived by Wardour art director Rob Cuthbertson and commissioned by picture editor Johanna Ward to illustrate the concept of risk management for his global insurance client. The team used a professional stunt man and a hired safety crew to create a stunning shot of an almost robotic man, not fazed by the fact that he is ablaze.

The AOP Photographers Awards, which has already placed the image in its exhibition has now named it the class winner for best single commissioned shot.

The awards are regarded as the ultimate accolade for professional photographers and receive over 4,000 entries each year. The shot will be included in the Photographers awards book and can be viewed here. 

"We were delighted to have been included in the exhibition, now winning this top award is the icing on the cake. It's a testament to the creativity we put into shoots for our client’s magazines," commented Rob. "The image provokes a reaction in everyone who sees it, something we strive to create for all our covers."

The shot was used on the cover of the December 2011 issue sent to the client’s insurance customer base of mainly high-end businesses and individuals. The feedback from both client and readers has been enthusiastic and will allow Rob and his team to continue to push the boundaries of their work.

A video of the making of the shoot can be seen here.