$20,000 cash prize
Mysterious. Bold. Unapologetically provocative. This theme blurs the line between power and temptation—inviting contestants to show their most daring, seductive side. Moody lighting, sleek silhouettes, and a whole lot of attitude.
Shot entirely in black and white, each image turns up the drama and strips everything down to raw contrast. Because when the color fades, confidence is all that remains.
💸 $20,000 Cash
📸 NYC Professional Photoshoot
🌆 5 Nights in Tokyo for 2
🎬 Content Creation Experience in Japan
📰 Maxim Magazine Feature
❤️ $5,000 Donation - Winner’s Choice
A Global Stage for Timeless Allure.
Shades of Grey: Tokyo isn’t just a competition—it’s a story told in contrasts. It’s where soft meets strong, light meets dark, and beauty becomes magnetic.
Start online, rise through the rounds, and earn your place in front of Maxim’s judges. Finalists will join a private interview round before one model takes the crown—and the trip of a lifetime.
MAXIM is a Launchpad for Success
“My Life Changed Forever”
“By consistently posting every day, my following grew more and more. Influencers with large accounts reached out to me, and helped me by posting my content on their Instagram Stories. Much of my Instagram growth happened during the Maxim Cover Girl competition.”
“Maxim Cover Girl truly helped me refine and learn advertising, networking and marketing skills in my own way, which was and is very beneficial no matter which way one goes in life. Shooting with Gilles and the entire team was truly magical and will forever be held in my heart.”
“Being on the cover of Maxim is such a huge honor for me. It’s a way for me to represent minorities and bring diversity to the fashion industry. The funny thing is that I signed up literally in the back seat of my dad’s car while we were on our way to the ice rink for practice.”
“When I competed for the Maxim Cover the world was essentially shut down. Fortunately, with incredible support from my family and friends -my dream came to fruition! It was such an exciting experience to go through and I will forever be grateful and proud to have graced such an iconic cover.”
TOP THREE
Sasha
Eileen
Amanda
“This competition showed me that modeling isn’t about fitting into a box — it’s about owning who you are.” - Eileen Hayman
“Maxim gave me a reason to keep going. Every photo, every vote, every challenge made me stronger.” - Amanda Metzger
“Being part of Maxim taught me to stop underestimating myself — and to go for it.” - Sasha Liu
It’s Free & Easy to Sign up.
Competition Overview
Date
Submit your application by March 15 to secure your spot in the competition.
Date
Finalists will be announced on March 30. Stay tuned for the results!
Date
Join us for the photoshoot sessions on April 15 and 16 at our studio.
Date
Experience a day of creativity, fun, and professional photography at our exciting event!
Date
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Tournament
Round
- Trip to Miami
- Maxim Photoshoot
- $20K Grand Prize
- Feature in Maxim Magazine
- Trip for 2 to NYC + Tokyo
- $5,000 charity donation
📸 PROFESSIONAL PHOTOSHOOT IN NEW YORK CITY
Your journey begins in New York City—the birthplace of fashion edge. Step under the lights for a Maxim-approved photoshoot that blends sophistication with danger. Shot in striking black and white, every frame highlights your confidence, your curves, and your story.
You’ll walk away with a gallery of unforgettable, editorial-grade images—perfect for your portfolio and your spotlight moment in Tokyo.
How do I get votes?
Once you enter, you’ll get your own unique voting page to share. Supporters can cast daily votes, or boost your chances by purchasing Maxim NEXT issues—every vote brings you closer to the crown and your Maxim feature.
The Judges
"The winner of any Maxim Cover Girl modeling competition should be striking and captivating. One of the most beautiful things about modeling is the personalization and uniqueness of each individual. There is no mold. Art and beauty is subjective, use your edge and compel us to choose you."
Stay true to your dream, set high goals and outline the actions that will lead you there. Remember that failing is a part of the learning process and that success is the result of consistency and hard work."
"Model Photography is a form of expression, an art, it not only captures and freezes a moment in time but it has the potential to tell a compelling story. Use this competition to tell your story, make your images speak for themselves, have them say one thousand words from the very second someone lays eyes on them.
Be your authentic self, be unforgettable. Become the woman you strive to be and portray her using your skills as an elegant and powerful model. I’ll see you at the finish line, I wish every single one of you the best of luck."
“I am looking for a Maxim cover girl who exudes confidence, sophistication, and has a magnetic presence. I want someone who embodies beauty, intelligence, and a strong sense of self. My ideal cover girl would be someone who embraces her individuality, radiates empowerment, and inspires others. She would represent the epitome of modern femininity but also have a touch of edginess and a dash of glamor that sets her apart from the rest,”
"Becoming a part of Maxim is such a special piece of my story. Maxim embraces not only physical, but intellectual and artistic talents. All of what we do combines to make us who we are, and in turn is encompassed in our exterior. Caring about one's mission and health is important. Our own unique features make us beautiful. I see modeling as one's unique beauty, passion and soul combining to create art. Good luck ladies. Shine bright! You are all amazing in your own way."
"My biggest advice is to put yourself out there and share your goals openly with your community—don’t be afraid to ask for support and for people to vote for you.
I’ve decided to leave behind the fear of not measuring up, to fully embrace who I am, and to go after my dreams wholeheartedly. Modeling was always something I dreamed of but never thought possible. Now, I’m living that dream, and I hope others find the courage to pursue their own."
"Showcasing your potential for a cover means submitting both natural and creative photos to highlight your range. Let your energy and personality draw in the audience. Keep it fun, stay relaxed, and take care of your skin. Most importantly, let your confidence and unique essence radiate through every shot!"
Guidance from Maxim Insiders
From experienced models and past winners to Maxim editors and creative pros, you’ll gain access to a community built to elevate you. Get real advice on how to pose, shape your brand, and build lasting momentum in your modeling career—with support that’s present, personal, and proven.
How Voting Works
Every Vote Moves You Forward.
Supporters from around the world will cast votes to help you advance through the rounds and into the interview phase with Maxim’s judges.
Once you enter, you’ll have your own voting page to share. Fans can cast free daily votes or boost you higher by purchasing Maxim NEXT issues—every vote brings you closer to being crowned the Shades of Grey: Tokyo winner.
How long does the contest run?
The competition unfolds over multiple rounds. Each round has its own cut-off date, so you’ll need to keep your audience engaged and voting for you daily to climb the ranks.
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT: TOKYO
Where Style Never Sleeps. After New York, your passport takes you to Tokyo. Five nights of cinematic contrast—neon glow, midnight streets, and sky-high luxury.
You and your guest will explore the city’s creative pulse while producing exclusive Maxim content under the electric Tokyo skyline. Imagine rooftop cocktails, high-fashion alleyway shots, and after-dark energy that never quits.
Tokyo doesn’t fade—it glows.
