Behind the scenes of beauty contests

This unusual photo project by Jenn Ackerman and Tim Gruber will allow us to look behind the scenes of the Miss USA and Miss Universe beauty contests.

Beauty contests have long been a symbol of the West, despite the fact that some consider them a false competition for dummy girls. The world of beauty contests is a world in which silicone implants and plastic surgery have become the norm, and the fate of the contestants is not always decided by an objective jury.

The photo project "Miss" is dedicated to these girlish competitions, which he explores through the prism of admiration, respect, reverence and sadness. The project allows the viewer to look behind the scenes of the two largest beauty contests in the world — "Miss USA" and "Miss Universe". Here you will see the rivalry, camaraderie, pain and determination of the participants trying to get what most girls in the world only dream of. This project will show you the world of ribbons, thinness, makeup, curls and high heels — and everything that girls are willing to do for the honor of becoming the new "Miss" of the year.

In pursuit of the crown.

Preparation.

In front of the judges.

For show.

Sleeping beauty.

Posing.

On the set.

"Miss Zambia".

Cosmetics.

Criticism.

My light, mirror, tell me…

Loneliness.

We smile and wave.

Final preparations.

Weeping.

On the heels of the stairs.

The theater of one actor.

Waiting for your turn.

In front of the judges.

Training.

Results.

After the defeat.

Champion in eating watermelons.

Island.

Scene.

Ribbons.

Evaluation.

Spectacular appearance.

Heels.

A new wardrobe.

Preparation.

Performance.

Reflection.

Technic.

Admiration.

Eyelash extensions.

Cameras.

Alone with myself.

Chicken wing eating contest.

Self-confidence.

In training.

I fell asleep right in the hallway.

Reward.

Instructions.

National pride.

Preparation for the bikini contest.

Dance with hoops.

Expectation.