Ep 2. The Models Go Green

The Models Go Green is the second episode of season 9 of America's Next Top Model. In this episode, the 13 remaining models are challenged to embody the spirit of being environmentally friendly by posing in a photo shoot with a 'green' theme. Additionally, they are given tasks to complete to see if they can live sustainably.

The episode opens with the models realizing they will have to adjust to a sustainable lifestyle. Contestants begin to show concern as they don't know how to live green. While some become excited about the prospect of doing something good for the planet, others seem apprehensive about the changes they'll have to make.

The challenge tasks are supervised by photographer Nigel Barker and fashion stylist J Alexander. The models are divided into teams and assigned branding tasks to promote sustainable products. They need to create an advertisement that highlights the products' benefits of being eco-friendly. Their creativity, presentation skills and ability to deliver the message are assessed. A clear idea, an engaging ad, and passion for the product are all required to win.

Following the branding challenge, teams meet up with actress Tia Mowry, who introduces the next task: designing eco-friendly outfits. Designers Christopher Straub and Jeffrey Sebelia mentor the models throughout the process. The winning team is given a $10,000 reward to donate to a green organization of their choice.

The models then move on to the highlight of the episode: the photo shoot. In this episode, the photographer is Mark Liddell, who is known for producing colorful, high-energy shoots. The contestants are photographed while wearing a 'green' wardrobe consisting of both natural fabrics and recycled materials. The judges including Tyra Banks, judge the models on their ability to embody the theme, sustainability, and posing skills.

As the models prepare for their photoshoots, the pressure is on for them to overcome their insecurities. While America's Next Top Model always calls for the models to push through their fears, this episode puts a fresh new twist on things. The added stress of achieving sustainable goals would test who can put their best foot forward and do something meaningful for the planet.

During judging, the panel examines the photo shoot images, and the girls are critiqued as to whether they made an impact in the photos. Those with a dynamic pose, expressive faces, and those who manage to convey the 'green' message perform the best.

One model impresses the panel more than others, with her natural talent in posing and energetic appearance in the photos. Another struggles to show the required versatility and is criticized for her stony expression. In the end, only one model is announced as the winner of the challenge and receives a valuable prize.

The episode concludes with only still 12 models remaining in the competition, and viewers will have to wait to see what direction the competition will take and who will be eliminated. The episode is an entertaining combination of fashion, sustainability, and competition. By depicting how different green products can be marketed and by showing the environmental impact of fashion, the episode promotes a positive message about sustainability. Overall, The Models Go Green is an exciting and informative episode of America's Next Top Model, highlighting the importance of being eco-conscious in the fashion industry and beyond.