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:
Introduction: Each pin-up is called up on stage while their bio is read to introduce them.
Interview Segment: You’ll be asked a question to showcase your personality, knowledge, and passion for pin-up culture.
Posing: Strike three signature pin-up poses that highlight your theme and style.
Exit Stage: Walk off stage with confidence, making way for the next contestant.
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!