Online Photogenic Contest

Welcome to the VIP Photogenic Contest! Learning to take a professional quality headshot that highlights ones best features and shows a true and raw version of themselves is an important skill in the professional dance world. Photo quality, creativity, and composition are vital to a great photo. Presentation through grooming and wardrobe, expressing emotion through facial expressions, and use of the eyes to enchant the camera are all factors in choosing the winners of our contest.

Creating a great headshot is both an art and a science. Here are some essential tips to help you capture a headshot that stands out and makes you shine in all your photogenic contests.

01. The Setup

Lighting: Your best friend here is natural light. Try to take your photo in soft, natural light, ideally during the early morning or late afternoon. If you're indoors, position yourself near a window. Remember, the right lighting can dramatically enhance your photo.

Background: Choose a simple and uncluttered background. Neutral colors like white, grey, or light blue work best. The key is to avoid anything that might distract from your face.

Wardrobe: Opt for clothing with solid colors and simple designs. Avoid loud patterns or logos. Your outfit should complement your look without overpowering it.

02. The Photography

Camera Settings: If you're using a DSLR, adjust the aperture to blur the background slightly and keep the focus on your face. A setting like f/2.8 usually does the trick. With a smartphone, portrait mode can create a similar effect.

Angles and Framing: Experiment with different angles. Typically, a slightly above-eye-level camera position is flattering. Ensure your face is centered and occupies the right amount of space in the frame.

Post-Processing: A bit of editing can improve your photo. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and color saturation for the best look. Keep any skin retouching minimal – the goal is a natural, polished look.

03. The Model (That's You!)

Pose: Stay relaxed. A natural pose with a straight posture works best. You can face the camera directly or turn slightly to one side.

Expression: Your expression is crucial. A genuine smile or a confident, neutral expression can be very effective. The key is to look genuine, approachable, and professional.

Eye Contact and Focus: Your eyes should be the focal point. They need to be sharp and clear in the photo, as they convey your personality and confidence.

Makeup: If you choose to wear makeup, keep it natural. The aim is to enhance your features subtly.

2025 PHOTOGENIC Contest Registration

Register and submit your headshots into the VIP Photogenic 2025 Online Contest for the chance to be selected as one of our age division winners. Winners of each division are featured on our website, newsletter, and social media accounts.

Last day to enter May 1, 2025.
Winners will be announced May 15, 2025.
*photo entry fees are non-refundable

VIP Dance reserves the right to alter any policy or rule at any time for any reason deemed necessary by VIP Dance.
VIP Dance reserves the right to reject any photo for any reason deemed necessary by VIP Dance.
VIP Dance reserves the right to combine categories when any one category has minimal entries.
Swimwear is not allowed in submitted photographs.
All entrants are responsible for obtaining any permissions or rights to enter the submitted photos into this contest. Should it be required that a photo is removed from the contest, a replacement photo may be submitted.
No refunds on any entry for any reason.

PHOTOGENIC

Reece O'Connell

Carly Berkowitz

Madalyn Sullivan

Jayden Burge

01. The Setup

02. The Photography

03. The Model (That's You!)

2024 Finalists...

Grace Himber

Aria Leon

Christian Johnson

Adalynn Felts

Adaline Scanio

Carmen O'Connell

Greenleigh Blankenship

Sydney Chastain

Alyssa Lopez

Joslyn Rosalez

Winnie LeGault

Alaira Pohorence

Emma Markstrom

Morgan McGarraug

Ava Louch

Jillian Kiger

Jayci Reed

Reagan Chin

Ella Voorhees

Megan Malloy

Past Seasons

FEATURE WINNERS

Graceann Hammer

Sienna Capri Arias

Allison Weber

2025 PHOTOGENIC Contest Registration

2025 ENTRIES

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