Pin Up Contest Judge’s Guide

So you’re judging a True North Pin Up Contest…

Thank you for being a judge at our True North Pin-Up contest! Your role is essential in ensuring fairness and celebrating the best of vintage style, personality, and creativity. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you judge confidently and consistently.

Judging Philosophy

Pin-up is all about confidence, charisma, and capturing the essence of vintage glamour. Whether a contestant is a seasoned pro or new to the scene, they should embody a balance of style, stage presence, and personal flair. Judges should look beyond appearance and appreciate how each contestant brings their unique personality to the competition.

Show Flow Overview

Here’s a sneak peek into the flow of a typical pin-up contest to help you prepare:

  1. Introduction: Each pin-up is called up on stage while their bio is read to introduce them.

  2. Interview Segment: You’ll be asked a question to showcase your personality, knowledge, and passion for pin-up culture.

  3. Posing: Strike three signature pin-up poses that highlight your theme and style.

  4. Exit Stage: Walk off stage with confidence, making way for the next contestant.

  5. Finale: At the end of the contest, all pin-ups are called back on stage one at a time for a final display.

How to Judge

A great pin-up contestant embodies style, confidence, and stage presence while embracing creativity and vintage authenticity. As a judge, focus on:

  • Style & Authenticity: How well does their look reflect the pin-up aesthetic? Consider historical accuracy, colour coordination, and accessory choices.

  • Confidence & Stage Presence: Do they engage with the audience and own the stage? Look for poise, eye contact, and natural charisma.

  • Creativity & Uniqueness: How do they bring their own flair to the competition? Judges should consider originality while staying within the pin-up genre.

  • Posing & Expression: Do they execute 3 classic pin-up poses with grace and charm? Are they expressive and engaging without being over-exaggerated?

  • Overall Presentation: Is their performance polished and well-prepared? Does their outfit, attitude, and energy work cohesively?

the Score Sheet

Each category has a set number of points, with the highest combined score determining the winner. Judges should score each contestant independently and consistently.

  • Queen (Best Overall) – 100 Points Total

    • Overall Look & Styling (40 points) – Hair, makeup, accessories, clothing, and adherence to vintage style.

    • Stage Presence & Confidence (30 points) – Commanding the stage, audience interaction, charisma.

    • Posing & Expression (20 points) – Execution of classic pin-up poses, and engaging facial expressions.

    • Creativity & Theme Adherence (10 points) – Interpretation of the contest’s theme with personal flair.

  • Best Hair – 10 Points

    • Execution & Neatness (5 points) – Hair is styled well and free from visible flaws.

    • Creativity & Period Accuracy (5 points) – Hair is in a recognizable pin-up style from the 1920s-1970s.

  • Best Theme – 10 Points

    • Outfit & Styling Alignment (5 points) – The contestant’s look reflects their own chosen theme.

    • Creativity & Unique Interpretation (5 points) – The contestant brings a fresh and fun take on the theme.

Tips for Fair Judging

  • Be Objective: Base your scores on the established criteria, not personal preferences.

  • Use the Full Score Range: Differentiate contestants effectively by using the entire scale.

  • Avoid Bias: Welcome all body types, ages, and backgrounds—judge based on pin-up spirit, not personal appearance.

  • Stay Consistent: Maintain the same standard across all contestants.

  • Encourage Confidence: Look for contestants who radiate self-assurance and enthusiasm.

  • Assess the Complete Look: Consider how all elements of styling, stage presence, and execution come together.

What NOT to Judge On

This contest is about pin-up performance, not personal preferences. Avoid scoring based on:

  • Body type, age, or background – Every contestant is valued equally.

  • Personal connections – Keep judging unbiased and fair.

  • Clothing brand or expense – It’s about styling, not how much was spent.

  • Personal fashion preferences – Stay within the realm of vintage pin-up aesthetics rather than personal tastes.

Encouragement for Feedback

Judges are encouraged to leave short, positive notes for contestants. Constructive feedback can help them grow and refine their pin-up style. Highlight strengths while providing thoughtful, encouraging critiques.

  • Examples of Positive Feedback:

    • "Your confidence really lit up the stage!"

    • "Fantastic vintage styling—your attention to detail was excellent!"

    • "Great use of accessories to complete your look!"

    • "Loved your playful posing—it felt so natural!"

    • "Your theme interpretation was creative and fun!"

Final Notes for Judges

  • Take notes throughout the competition to help differentiate contestants.

  • Revisit your scores before finalizing them to ensure consistency.

  • Have fun! Pin-up culture is about confidence, fun, and self-expression, so enjoy the experience of celebrating these incredible contestants.

Thank you for your time and expertise in celebrating vintage culture and supporting our incredible pin-up contestants!

Here are some great themes and posing from the past few years for inspiration