You can learn plenty from Alva Page, a runway coach who splits his time between training models in Raleigh and New York City.

Most recently he's been training the 42 models who will show off spring fashion during the sold-out Women's Empowerment Expo on Saturday.

The fashion show has grown into one of the largest choreographed fashion events in the area. This year's show, which is being produced by Tim Johnson Productions, will feature models, including men, petites and plus sizes, in looks from designers such as Bramer Leon Couture and E. Bannister Menswear.

More than 300 people tried out to be in the show a few months ago, Johnson says. The models who made the cut have been meeting for the last few Sundays to take a few cues from Page, who attended St. Augustine's College, on how to walk, turn and give that all-important stare into the camera.

Here's what he had to say during a phone interview:

Q: What are some of the common mistakes most people make when they're learning to model?

A: A lot of mistakes I have seen come from not having that confidence. One of the biggest things I've found is that you must have a great entrance, and that comes from confidence. You've got to have that entrance the minute we call your name. A lot of people don't know their turns. They see a lot of fashion shows, and they think they have it down pat but they don't. As a runway coach, my job is to define those things. I'm trying to bring the art back, the half-turn, the stare at the camera, how to carry a garment. Whatever you do, execute it with great cleanness.

Q: If someone is interested in modeling, where should they start?

A: The best thing I can tell anybody is to do their homework. Find out where you belong. A lot of these models don't know there are a lot of different categories to model in. Call around to the different agencies and know what categories the agencies represent. All agencies are different. Some boutiques have a smaller roster, and they can cater to you more. Some are larger.

Q: Do you have a favorite runway model?

A: I truly admire Naomi (Campbell). I love Linda Evangelista. She knew how to pose, how to give you face. I love Debra Shaw. She was the epitome of a runway model. She knew how to walk. I love my Kate Moss. She defied the word "no." She didn't let anyone tell her she couldn't do it. I tell my models to look at her story.

Q: What tips do you have for the rest of us who don't plan to model but still want to look our best?

A: Stand in front of a mirror in tight clothes. Look at yourself but don't think negative thoughts about yourself. Think positive thoughts. That's the first stage of learning about your body. Just keep thinking 'I'm beautiful. I gorgeous.' And that's going to show."