P3D Slide competitions are fair?

[markaren@xxxxxxxxx (Karen Obusek)]

"Assignment" slide competitions work well as a basis to compare your own
slides with others in the group, however my recommendations to "level
the playing field" should be noted for future consideration. First, lets
be more specific regarding the topics. If the topic is "architecture"
for example...be more specific such as "churches" or " office
buildings". Members can compare their work to like kind images and
better understand how each photographer approaches the shot,
understanding styles etc.
To compare an image of a bridge against an image of a stone house may
not provide the same learning experience.Secondly, assignments should be
disclosed at the previous meeting, allowing a month to photograph the
assignment and enter the images. This would discourage the old timers
and lazy long timers from entering " stock" images. For example, I am a
first year aspiring contender, geographically photogenically challenged
( live in Pittsburgh :-) )  and I have to challenge incredible scenics
from Paradise USA or exotic lands like Egypt, Greece, and Italy. I have
to hope that my image entitled " crushed beer can on curb" catches the
judges eye! Sure I have to work harder! Specific assignments drawn from
a hat a month prior to the competitions, would accelerate the learning
curve for the group, keep the vets honest, and promote exitement to
those who slumped into comforts of past glory, who's stereo images have
become " old hat" to all who know them. No time? Sorry....we'll hold
All-star Hall of Fame competitions at the end of the year for those ages
50+ who are still entering shots of the Duncan yo-yo champ or macros of
their high school rings. Just an idea...........:-) 
                                           Mark Dottle


------------------------------