An updated guide for how to get started in pageants: 2023
Are you interested in starting in pageants? Here’s a few tips to get you on your way
First, let me introduce myself. I’m Brittany, a pageant photographer & former pageant competitor. I started competing when I was 12 and held a variety of local and state titles until my last title in college. I intended to take a break from the industry after college, but the world of pageants didn’t let me go! I had friends still competing and ended up photographing their headshots, which led to a national photogenic win. 10 years later and I’ve been photographing pageant titleholders ever since!
Pageants have changed a lot in the last 5 years, so if you’re stepping back into the pageant world after a break or curious to get started for the first time, listen up. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Research different pageants: The first step in getting started in pageants is to research different competitions. Look online or on instagram to find pageants that are open to your age range and that align with your interests and values.
Understand the rules and requirements: Once you've identified a few pageants you're interested in, read the rules and requirements carefully. Make sure you understand the eligibility criteria, age divisions, entry fees, and any other rules or regulations.
Understand the level of competition you’ll be entering. Some pageants have locals which are pre-qualifiers before a state-level competition. Other pageants have state or regional competitions where they award multiple state titles. Whereas other pageants allow titleholders to earn appointed titles and head straight to a national pageant. Each pageant system and state is different, so ensure your information is specific to your area.
Examples: Miss High School America has some state pageants like South Carolina in person, whereas the Minnesota title is often appointed—both titleholders will go to Nationals, but there are different ways to get there depending on what state you’re from. Alternatively, Miss California USA has local pageants like Miss Malibu girls must win before heading to the state competition for Miss California USA, and then that winner goes to Miss USA.
Prepare for the competition: Depending on the pageant, you may need to prepare a talent, a speech, or a set of outfits. Find out what you need to prepare and start working on those skills or items. You’ll also need a stand-out pageant headshot—and I’m here to help!
Get a coach or mentor: Consider finding a coach or mentor who can help you prepare for the pageant. They can offer advice on everything from your wardrobe to your interview skills.
Practice your skills: Practice your skills regularly to improve your performance. This may include practicing your talent, working on your public speaking or interview skills, or perfecting your walking and posing.
Build your confidence: Confidence is key in pageants. Work on building your self-confidence by practicing positive self-talk, setting realistic goals, and visualizing yourself succeeding. Your competitors will likely also be beautiful, accomplished, interesting, and funny. Instead of comparing yourself, think about your unique story to share and what makes you uniquely you. The funny misconception about pageants is that people think the competition is all about looks; but when your judges are asked to select just one representative from a variety of beautiful women, “beauty” means much less than confidence, energy, stage presence & eloquence.
Be prepared to meet incredible people: Pageants are filled with strong women that all come from different backgrounds but have a common passion for life & bettering themselves.
Remember, pageants are meant to be fun and rewarding experiences. Don't get too caught up in the competition and remember to enjoy the journey. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to starting your pageant journey.
Pageants to check out:
-Miss USA
-Miss America
-USA National Miss
-National American Miss
-International Junior Miss
-Miss International
-Mrs. America
-Miss High School America
-Ideal Miss
-Princess of America
-America’s Most Beautiful
-United States of America
-Miss Earth
-Miss Volunteer America
