VNTM 9 Ep 1: My Call Order & Photoshoot Review

Hey guys! So, Vietnam's Next Top Model (VNTM) Season 9 is finally here, and the first episode's photoshoot was fire! As a huge fan of the show, I couldn't wait to share my personal call order and thoughts on each contestant's performance. This season looks incredibly promising, with a diverse cast of aspiring models, and the initial photoshoot really set the stage for what's to come. The theme was bold and challenging, pushing the contestants right out of their comfort zones, which is exactly what we want to see in a top model competition. So, buckle up, because we're diving deep into the photos, the poses, and the overall vibe of the first photoshoot! Let's break down who slayed, who struggled, and who I think deserves to be at the top of the call-out list.

First Impressions: The Photoshoot Concept

Before we get into the individual performances, let's talk about the concept of the photoshoot itself. The creative direction was really interesting this year. The set design was absolutely stunning, creating a visually striking backdrop for the models. It's clear that the production team invested a lot in making this photoshoot a memorable one. The lighting, the styling, everything contributed to a high-fashion feel that's essential for a show like VNTM. The concept itself required the models to embody a strong and unique persona, and it was fascinating to see how each contestant interpreted the brief. Some models really grasped the essence of the concept and translated it beautifully into their poses and expressions. Others struggled a bit, which is understandable given the pressure and the new environment. Overall, I think the photoshoot concept was a great way to kick off the season and immediately test the contestants' versatility and adaptability. It's not just about taking a pretty picture; it's about telling a story, conveying emotion, and capturing the viewer's attention. That's what separates a good model from a great model, and this photoshoot highlighted that distinction perfectly.

My Personal Call Order: From Best to… Still Pretty Good!

Alright, let's get to the juicy part – my personal call order! This is based purely on my opinion of the photos, the overall presence of the model, and how well they captured the essence of the photoshoot concept. Remember, this is just my perspective, and I'm super excited to hear what you guys think in the comments! This ranking is based on various factors, including the model's pose, expression, connection with the camera, and how well they embodied the theme of the photoshoot. It's not just about having a pretty face; it's about commanding attention and telling a story through a single image. The contestants who made it to the top of my list demonstrated a strong understanding of these elements, delivering powerful and memorable photos.

Top 3: The Standouts

These three contestants absolutely blew me away. They understood the assignment, they brought their A-game, and their photos are simply stunning.

  • Contestant A: Wow. Just wow. Contestant A absolutely slayed this photoshoot. Their pose was fierce, their expression was captivating, and they completely embodied the character they were asked to portray. The connection with the camera was intense, and it's clear that this contestant has a natural talent for modeling. Every element of their photo, from the styling to the composition, worked perfectly together. They exuded confidence and control, commanding attention with their presence. The way they used their body to create shapes and lines was masterful, demonstrating a strong understanding of posing techniques. Beyond the technical aspects, Contestant A brought an emotional depth to their photo, conveying a sense of mystery and intrigue. This is the kind of photo that makes you stop and stare, and it's a clear indication of Contestant A's potential in this competition. They set the bar high for the rest of the contestants, and I'm incredibly excited to see what they bring in future challenges. If they can maintain this level of performance, they're definitely one to watch.
  • Contestant B: Contestant B brought a unique energy to the set that translated beautifully into their photo. They took risks, they were playful, and they managed to create a truly memorable image. Their ability to connect with the camera and project their personality is remarkable. What impressed me most about Contestant B was their ability to adapt to the challenge and make it their own. They didn't just follow instructions; they added their own creative flair, resulting in a photo that stands out from the rest. Their body language was dynamic and engaging, and their facial expressions were full of life. They seemed to be having fun, and that positive energy is infectious. It's clear that Contestant B has a strong sense of self, and they're not afraid to express it. This kind of confidence and individuality is essential in the modeling industry, and it's what makes Contestant B such a compelling competitor. Their photo demonstrated a willingness to experiment and push boundaries, which is a sign of a true artist. I can't wait to see how they continue to evolve throughout the competition.
  • Contestant C: Contestant C's photo was a masterclass in posing. Every angle, every line, was perfect. They understood their body, they understood the lighting, and they created a visually striking image that's worthy of a magazine cover. Their attention to detail is truly impressive. The elegance and sophistication that Contestant C exuded in their photo were captivating. They managed to convey a sense of poise and grace, while also projecting strength and confidence. The way they held themselves, the way they moved, everything spoke to their understanding of what it takes to be a top model. It's clear that Contestant C has a natural understanding of the camera and how to work it to their advantage. Their photo was not just aesthetically pleasing; it was also technically brilliant. The composition, the lighting, the focus – everything was meticulously executed. This level of precision and control is rare, and it's a testament to Contestant C's dedication and skill. They have a strong foundation in the fundamentals of modeling, and I'm excited to see how they build upon that foundation as the competition progresses.

Middle Ground: Solid Performances

These contestants did a good job, but there's definitely room for improvement. They have potential, but they need to push themselves harder in future photoshoots.

  • Contestant D: Contestant D's photo was good, but it lacked that extra spark. The pose was a little stiff, and the expression could have been more engaging. However, there's definitely potential there, and I'm hoping to see more from them in the future. They possess the raw materials to be a successful model, but they need to refine their technique and learn how to fully connect with the camera. The key for Contestant D is to relax and let their personality shine through. They have a striking look, but they need to learn how to use it to their advantage. Experimenting with different poses and expressions will help them discover their strengths and develop a signature style. It's also important for Contestant D to pay attention to the feedback from the judges and mentors, and to actively work on improving their weaknesses. With dedication and hard work, they can definitely elevate their performance and become a stronger competitor.
  • Contestant E: Contestant E had a strong look, but the photo felt a little flat. The connection with the camera wasn't quite there, and the overall energy was lacking. I think they need to work on injecting more personality into their photos. One of the biggest challenges for Contestant E is to break out of their comfort zone and take risks. They have the potential to be a versatile model, but they need to be willing to experiment and try new things. This means pushing their boundaries with posing, expressions, and overall performance. It's also crucial for Contestant E to develop a stronger sense of confidence in front of the camera. They need to believe in themselves and their ability to deliver a compelling photo. Working on their body language and posture can help them project more confidence and command attention. With a little more effort and focus, Contestant E can definitely improve their performance and become a more memorable contestant.
  • Contestant F: Contestant F's photo was decent, but it didn't really stand out. It was a safe choice, and I think they need to start taking more risks if they want to make it to the top. Playing it safe is a common mistake in modeling competitions, and it's one that can easily lead to elimination. Contestant F needs to understand that they are competing against a group of talented individuals, and they need to do something special to set themselves apart. This means pushing their creative boundaries and challenging themselves to deliver photos that are both technically sound and emotionally engaging. It's also important for Contestant F to develop a strong sense of personal style and individuality. They need to identify what makes them unique and use that to their advantage. This could involve experimenting with different makeup looks, hairstyles, or even developing a signature pose. The key is to find what works for them and to own it with confidence.

Bottom 3: Needs Improvement

These contestants struggled the most in this photoshoot. They need to step it up if they want to stay in the competition. It's not the end of the road, but they need to show significant improvement in the coming weeks.

  • Contestant G: Unfortunately, Contestant G's photo was the weakest of the bunch. The pose was awkward, the expression was uncomfortable, and the overall image didn't really work. They need to go back to basics and work on their posing techniques. The first step for Contestant G is to seek guidance from the judges and mentors and to actively work on implementing their feedback. This may involve practicing posing in front of a mirror, studying photos of successful models, or even taking extra classes to improve their technique. It's also important for Contestant G to develop a stronger sense of body awareness. They need to understand how their body moves and how to use it to create interesting shapes and lines. This requires a lot of practice and experimentation, but it's an essential skill for any model. Furthermore, Contestant G needs to work on their confidence in front of the camera. They need to project a sense of self-assurance, even if they don't feel it internally. This can be achieved through positive self-talk, visualization techniques, and practicing their poses until they feel natural and comfortable. With hard work and dedication, Contestant G can overcome these challenges and become a more confident and capable model.
  • Contestant H: Contestant H's photo had some potential, but it fell short due to a lack of energy and connection with the camera. They need to find a way to bring more life and emotion to their photos. One of the key areas for Contestant H to focus on is their connection with the camera. They need to learn how to engage with the lens and project their personality through their eyes. This involves practicing different facial expressions, experimenting with eye contact, and learning how to convey emotions without being overly dramatic. It's also crucial for Contestant H to bring more energy and enthusiasm to their photos. They need to be passionate about what they're doing and let that passion shine through in their expressions and body language. This can be achieved by fully immersing themselves in the concept of the photoshoot and finding ways to connect with the character they are portraying. Contestant H should also work on developing their storytelling abilities. A great model can tell a story through a single image, and this requires the ability to convey emotions, create a sense of mood, and engage the viewer's imagination. By focusing on these aspects, Contestant H can significantly improve their performance and create more compelling photos.
  • Contestant I: Contestant I's photo lacked a clear point of focus. The pose was confusing, and the expression didn't convey any particular emotion. They need to work on creating a stronger narrative in their photos. The primary challenge for Contestant I is to develop a stronger understanding of posing and how it contributes to the overall narrative of a photo. They need to learn how to create poses that are both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally engaging. This requires studying the work of other successful models, experimenting with different angles and positions, and understanding how to use their body to create a sense of movement and flow. It's also essential for Contestant I to develop their ability to convey emotions through their facial expressions. This involves practicing different expressions in front of a mirror, studying the emotional cues of others, and learning how to use their eyes, mouth, and eyebrows to communicate a range of feelings. Furthermore, Contestant I needs to focus on creating a clear point of focus in their photos. This means identifying the most important element of the image and using their pose, expression, and body language to draw the viewer's eye to that focal point. By mastering these techniques, Contestant I can create photos that are more impactful, memorable, and emotionally resonant.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect This Season

Overall, the first episode of VNTM 9 was a fantastic start to the season. The photoshoot was challenging, the contestants are diverse and talented, and I'm already hooked! I'm excited to see how the models develop and grow throughout the competition, and I can't wait to see who will ultimately take home the crown. This season promises to be full of drama, surprises, and stunning visuals. The challenges will undoubtedly push the contestants to their limits, testing their creativity, resilience, and adaptability. It's not just about taking pretty pictures; it's about evolving as a model and as a person. The mentors and judges will play a crucial role in guiding the contestants on their journey, providing valuable feedback and support. Their expertise and insights will help the models hone their skills and reach their full potential. As the competition intensifies, the contestants will need to develop a strong sense of self-belief and confidence. They will face rejections, criticism, and moments of self-doubt, but it's how they respond to these challenges that will ultimately determine their success. The winner of VNTM 9 will not only be a talented model, but also a strong, resilient, and inspiring individual. So, buckle up, grab your popcorn, and get ready for an exciting season of Vietnam's Next Top Model!