If there is no table between you and the celebrity, stand at a respectable distance from the celebrity. This will show them that you are engaged in the meet and greet and are able to respect their personal space.
Some celebrities may offer different forms of greeting, like a hi-five or a wave. Respond in kind by hi-fiving them back or waving back. Let the celebrity dictate the terms of the interaction.
You should also let your excitement come through on your face by smiling at the celebrity. Show off your smile and let your happiness light up your face. This will signal to the celebrity that you are thrilled to meet them in a respectful and appropriate way.
You may ask a simple question, like, “What inspired you to make this film/create this album/write this book?” Or, you may ask a more specific question that may be obscure to show the celebrity that you are a true fan. For example, you may ask, “Why do you always end your songs with two claps?” or “How did it feel to work with Mia Farrow in Deadweight?” Often, more obscure questions will impress the celebrity and help you stand out from the crowd of fans.
Try to stick to one to two questions or compliments, as you do not want to take up too much of the celebrity’s time. This is especially important if you are in front of a long line of fans and do not want to hog time with the celebrity. If the celebrity responds to your questions, be respectful and listen to their answers without interruption. Make sure you say “please” and “thank you” when appropriate, as this will show the celebrity you are treating them like a fellow human being who happens to be famous. Plus, it is just polite and good manners.
Consider asking for the celebrity’s autograph at the end of the meeting as a way to close out your meet and greet with them. Make sure you bring a pen with you and have the item ready so you can easily hand it to the celebrity to sign.
You may want to check with the meet and greet event to see if photography is allowed so you are aware of the policy in advanced. Some celebrities are more comfortable with having a one on one conversation with fans, rather than taking pictures.
You may want to read more on how to pose in a photograph. Make sure you have a big smile and maintain eye contact with the camera as you take the photograph with the celebrity. Try to appear happy but relaxed in the photograph. You can then treasure the photograph with the celebrity for years to come.
You may want to create a custom gift for the celebrity, where you use their image to create a t-shirt, an original painting, or another craft project. You could then sign your work and give it to the celebrity as a gift. You may also choose a gift that will show the celebrity what a big fan you are, such as an item that references their role in a movie or a commemorative item that relates to their verse in a rap song. Get creative and present a gift that is memorable to the celebrity.
