BetterPhoto Q&A
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Photography Question 

Joyce Baldassarre
 

finalists


ok,,,,,,,,,,,, where are the finalists for March???????


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April 22, 2006

 

Brendan Knell
  As far as I know, they haven't been anounced yet. You can click on the Photo Contest button, and when they're announced, they should be under the photo there.


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April 22, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  Malaysian holiday, they'll be a bit delayed.


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April 22, 2006

 

Sylvia Rossler
  Just in case you did'nt get the newsletter :

Hi Everybody,
Just a note to let you know that the judges are working very hard to finish selecting the finalists for the March contest. As always, there were so many fantastic entries to consider! So please hang in there - the judges will be announcing the finalists soon. Thanks for your patience...
BetterPhoto.com


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April 23, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  I like Greg's explanation better!..and so what else is new?


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April 23, 2006

 

Robyn Gwilt
  Anyone know what next months theme is? I think they should do this b/w thing more often :) I'm not holding my breath, submitting my favourites (mainly coz I can never remember what I've entered), not holding thumbs, walking under ladders, throwing salt, knocking on wood...... you know what I mean???!!! Good luck anyway :)


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April 23, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  Next month's theme is "funny stuff".


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April 23, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Well maybe they should move the date back to allow them more time and keep people like me from chewing her acrylic nails!!!

Malaysian holiday! Good one!!!!


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April 23, 2006

 

Brendan Knell
  Good one Greg!

Joyce,
They have moved it back. I think about a year ago(give or take), they were supposed to be out on about the 15th. So they've moved it back 6 days. So, maybe they're due for moving it back a little. But I think that they are normally out on about the 21st-22nd.


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April 23, 2006

 
- Crystal E. Berryman

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  Hi all,
I know where the Judges are...they went on a long, relaxing cruise-they're kicking back, enjoying the surf and sunshine. Did anyone get a ticket for the cruise? I looked in my mailbox, but it was empty. :(
Judges, if you misplaced my info, I'm in sunsless Wyoming, at 43 degrees, with 30 mph winds! Be safe.
Chris :)


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April 23, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  They should just "fess up! They took the weekend off and went to the tulip farm!


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April 23, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  IS THERE SOME OTHER OBSCURE HOLIDAY THEY MIGHT PER CHANCE BE OBSERVING????


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April 23, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  I think it's just that there are so many entries because BP is such an awesome web site it attracts a huge crowd! The judges are probably working overtime, which is why I haven't heard from any of them for a while ;) Hey good luck y'all!!


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April 23, 2006

 

Gena A. Tussey
  I actually heard they were starting their own quasi-cult on Easter Island. It's for new lens addicts and manual focus junkies ;-o!! I can't wait to see who won...I didn't enter but one but I love to learn from everyone!! Good luck!!


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April 23, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  It's the birtday of the Sultan of Perak.


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April 23, 2006

 

Debbie Del Tejo
  This site is awsome!!! reading all this made me laugh at 5:00 am.....you guys are great!


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April 24, 2006

 

Sakthik .
  Hmmm...Same thing happened last month as well. Last month it was 23rd and this month it is already 24th still no results.

I think they should amend the result announcement date from 21st to 25th of every month. This would definitely avoid the amount of frustration for all users.

Let us wait and see. Cheers.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Yes, but if they move the announcement date to the 25th, what guarantee do we have that they will announce it on that date? Maybe they shouldannounce the finalists when THEY SAY THEY WILL!!!
Gee yesterday was Earth Day - guess they were out saving the planet????


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April 24, 2006

 

Sakthik .
  Hey Joyce..

Yeah, you are right. I thought 25th might give them another extra week to take their decision.

Everyone is now facing the same level of frustration. If this continues, I am sure users will loose their interest in BP.


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April 24, 2006

 
chrisbudny.com - Chris Budny

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  I think it probably stems from the huge number of entries, that continues to grow each month... April could hit 25,000 entries. I suspect without bringing on more judges, there is no way to go through an increasing number of entries in the same timeframe every month. Add a weekend in, right at the "announcement date" and you likely get some built-in delay---I certainly don't expect them to be working on the weekends ;)
I disagree with Sakthik, however, in that the contest is hardly the only reason I enjoy BP; the contest is a fun element of it, to be sure, and I get as excited as the next person, about wondering if I'll see a badge. (And I'd rather the judges reach a solid decision based on examining the entries more closely, than a rush-job.) But, for me, the contest remains a tiny part of why I check in here each day.
Final PS--the last 4 months I've had Finalists, Feb's contest was the first one where Finalists weren't out by the 21st (setting aside Winners for the moment!) Based on my timezone (US-EST) each notice email came in on the 20th or the 21st, until Feb's, which came in on the 22nd.


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April 24, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  I think it might be time for them to revisit 1 entry a day. When you're talking about 25k entries, theres no way you can pick the best ones, just far to many to choose from. I would say only 2 entried per week, that would cut it down a bit and take some of the workload off the judges, its got to be insane to try and pick 80-100 finalist out of 25k!!!


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April 24, 2006

 

Revonda L. Gentry
  I thought they picked around 600 or 700 finalist? < Still insane, but I thought the finalist pool was bigger?


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April 24, 2006

 

Rebecca A. Steed
  Perhaps they should limit it to one entry per category for the entire month. To be fair, they are people with families, hobbies, teaching classes and I'm sure full-time jobs too.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  I for one don't know what I'd do every morning if I didn't enter a photo :o)! I guess I'd have to migrate to another contest site which I'd seriously hate to do. This one is more fun than any of the others IMHO. Let's not talk about limits. I don't want to get a life!


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  I'm with Sharon! They tried limiting to 10 per month one other time and had a major mutiny on their hands. They backed down that time, but like Sharon says, some of us don't have any other life. I for one, enter only here with the exception of maybe one entry every 3 months over at BestFoto.
So please, for those of us who don't have anything else to do, lets not get that started up again. I hate to be rude, but if anyone thinks there are too many entrys they are perfectly welcome to limit themselves to one a month or one a week or whatever, but please don't limit the rest of us.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  LOL Carolyn! At least there's two of us :O)!


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  There are a lot more than just us! We just happen to be more outspoken about it.


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April 24, 2006

 

Charlene Bayerle
  Count me in too...so now there's at least 3 of us!!!!
As far as the finalists/winners go,
I believe this is a job for the BP staff....as with any other job, deadlines are ususally suppose to be met. I don't think it matters how many photos there are, we are their customers, who keep their jobs going!!! We buy websites, galleries, take classes, buy books, etc. And, being that the contest is still important to most of us, I think that BP should pay more attention to getting the finalists/winners out on time. The dates are always being pushed back.
I'll probably be punished for this comment, but I had to say what I believe........


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April 24, 2006

 
chrisbudny.com - Chris Budny

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  Make that three... ;)
I look at it more as, this is a free contest; I'm not paying an entrant's fee, and if the judges miss their target date, so be it--it isn't as rigid as a juried show, for instance. And I trust the judges also have other responsibilities to attend to in their jobs, besides these 25,000 entries. It is so much more of a community type site, I'm just completely relaxed about it now. I know the results will come, soon thereafter.
I suspect BP doesn't enjoy missing their stated date... but bumping it out would still mean we're all awaiting results by this point... ;) They could try end-of-month, and then perhaps announce early (to all our delight) but there's no guarantee that in 6 months, we won't be at the 30,000 mark, and even 30 days of judging might be hard to fit in!


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  Yeah, I knew you were with us, Char! Every time they're late, everybody starts wanting to limit us.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  They should just post "the week of the 25th" gives them a big window. When I first came to this website, I actually took a day of vacation to see the finalists (fool I was) Needless to say, waste of time since the 21st comes and goes now with no results. Im sure its a daunting task and January there were some "oopies" picked as finalists. Im just glad I dont have to make those decisions lol... good luck everyone, your all winners!


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  I have no life either!!! I look forward to sending in a photo a day AND seeing what everyone is posting AND seeing who the finalists are. I learn from seeing the thousands of entries and would hate to have my number of submissions limited but when they say the finalists will be posted on a certain day they should stand by their word or don't give a date. It is now the 24th and so far I have not seen anything. Get more judges. It is not our fault for this delay. I love BP and frankly have looked at other sites and I do NOT like them. The entrants are RUDE and IGNORANT. I have NEVER found that here so this is the only site I post to and the only site I want to post to. COME ON GUYS!!! GET THE LEAD OUT!!!!


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April 24, 2006

 

Rebecca A. Steed
  Maybe I misrepresented myself. I don't want to limit the contest (I post as many as I can too) but 25,000 images is a lot for a limited number of judges to handle in a month and still have personal lives of their own AND teach classes here. I don't like limits, but there should be a balance.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Joyce, thought I was the only other person that thought the other sites were rude. lol People treat other people horribly at times on those sites. This site rocks compared to them.


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April 24, 2006

 

Charlene Bayerle
  I agree with Joyce....this is a business and they should be able to figure out how to handle this many entries. It's their bread and butter!!!! It's a great site and we all know that, but the more people that join BP, means more people to buy websites, galleries, take classes, etc.
I have to assume that this is their lively hood and without the 25,000 entries, and everything that goes with those entries, they wouldnt have a job.
I understand that the contest is free, but I know I pay for a website every year as do hundreds of others here at BP.
This thread is repeated every month, and every month we wait even longer.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Becky,
I understand completely what u r saying and I am SURE the task is a daunting one to say the least. I still have not figured out what wins so I am completely at a loss. I get excited no matter what, whether I made the finals or not. I love seeing what makes it and what doesn't. The judges know how many photos they have to look at and I guess it boils down to time management for them. They know people are waiting to see so if they can't make the deadline, maybe they should not post one. We follow the rules, so should they.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sakthik .
  Guys,

Its just 7.30am BP Time. Wait for few more hours. I think they would publish it in next 3 or 4 hours.


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April 24, 2006

 

Peter Mantione
  All this talk about picking the finalist makes me wonder what procedure or process BP uses to make their final selections. Do they all gather around a screen and go through every image? How many judges are present? etc....
Would be interesting to find out what the actual process really is?


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Yes, I would like to know how it's done too. Why can't they look at the photos on a DAIILY basis, pull out what each thinks "might" make it and then whittle it down from there? If they try and go through a whole months worth of photos at one sitting, they better have plenty of booze on hand cause I know that would drive me to drink a bit. It would however explain how some really excellent shots don't win (none of mine of course cause I have never won).


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  From what I have heard, it's the staff and family and friends who chose the finalists. After that, the pros choose the winners. Hence why I think some of the finalists chosen are iffy and some great works passed over. Just rumor but makes sense.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Crystal E. Berryman

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  This site is like a classroom in progress 24-7 and I’ve learned so much and meet some wonderful people. The site is FREE to everyone to display and discuss their photos throughout during the day. Betterphoto is under NO obligation to have a date to reveal the finalists, NOR in actuality, to even have a contest. It’s like a small gift, to see those that are chosen at the end of the month and learn from the photographers. I’ve paid to have a premium gallery, which I enjoy having, and also I invested in a Deluxe Pro Web site. Both of which I enjoy and have had the help of those at Betterphoto, when I’ve had a problem.
I’m saddened by the disrespect towards Betterphoto and the Judges. I enjoy the wonderful people I’ve meet, the fact I’ve learned so much and having the ability to display my photos. For those that question me, believing I’ve won at anytime, no I have not; that was never my purpose in joining the site. Be safe.
Chris


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  it's not a matter of disrespect! If they say they will announce finalists on a specific day, then they should or they should not give a date. I know MY WORD means something and I don't go back on my word. I would think that many people value "their word" and if they say they are going to do something on a specific date, then they should.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE PICKING THE FINALISTS????????????? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING!!! WHY NOT LET A CHIMP DO IT????? We'd stand as good a chance. I know I spend a lot of time and effort on my submissions and to think someone child or inexperienced family member is picking the finalists, REALLY disheartens me more than waiting for the finalists to be revealed.


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April 24, 2006

 

Charlene Bayerle
  Hi Chris
I don't believe any of us are disrespecting the judges or BP. I know I have been a member, going on 3 years, and have seen the contest getting less and less attention. That is the point we are trying to make.
Obviously we enjoy this site, but every month it's the same excuses....too many entries. I don't know how the judging is done and who chooses, we used to get the finals on the 15th of the month and the winners a day or two later.....sure things change and change is great, but I do feel that BP has an obligation to meet their deadlines, free or not free.
I have learned so much on this site, like a private classroom, but I can also see the people that have been here the longest, are and will lose some interest. And, from reading this thread, some new people are also losing interest. And that will, in turn, hurt BP.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Charlene,

I could not have said it better!


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April 24, 2006

 

Charlene Bayerle
  Joyce....ROFL.....


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Now I know why I love BP. It's not the photography (just kidding), it's these hilarious Q&As! ROFL you guys!


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  You know they have elephants that paint pictures.......... maybe they are picking the finalists.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Like I said, it's a rumor I had heard when I first came to the site. I don't know who judges, Im not sure if any are inexperienced, Im not sure that is even true. It could be someone that thinks their work is superior to everyone elses and doesnt get chosen. Personally, I don't care that much about it. My world of photography does not revolve around this site, this contest this thread even. I like what I like, I post on what I like, I take images of what I like. I don't play the "if you post on mine, I'll post on yours game". I don't belong to a large photo club that gives praise to everyone who is in the clubs photos. I can't guess what anyone will or wont like, and thats true with the professionals. I don't like all thier images. Its all taste. As far as judges being pros, I havent read a claim that ever was or wasnt the case. The term "judges" if vague and leads to an assumption. Its all in fun and the moment I dont find it fun anymore its time to find something else to do. It just could be the chimps at the Seattle zoo "judging" lol Other than that, good luck and have fun! If you don't win this time, maybe next.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Sorry bout that long comment, didnt look that big when I was typing, I swear! Have a great day all!


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  No problem!!!! It's pretty amusing speculating about who is judging. maybe they throw darts at the possibles!!! and maybe there is delay because someone was speared!!! 2 pints of blood please!!!!!!!


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  They DO look at them every day, or close to it. We used to be able to watch the rounds (there were 4), but so many people were driving them nuts that they blocked us out from being able to find the early rounds. At first it was all catch up at the last minute and then finally when it got bigger, they would go through them more often. It was rather soothing to be able to see, since you knew early on what was moving ahead and what was not. Unfortunately, some people ruined it by blabbing it all over and then people started complaining, so now we suffer the results of that.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Boy, now I really feel special when I get chosen, I can't imaging going thru photos 4 times, might be why it takes so long, has to be time consuming.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  About half or more were eliminated each round, so it gets more manageable with each round. Sure it's time consuming! There are a lot of really good shots!


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April 24, 2006

 
claudiabodmerphotos.com - Claudia/Theo Bodmer

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  I agree with all who said the BP staff should meet their published deadline. That is their job. Chronic tardiness detracts from the professionalism of an otherwise great site.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  April photo contest winners will be posted by Sunday, May 21, 2006.

Does anyone really believe this?????

lmao!!!!! I am finding humor in this.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  We could enter this thread in the theme category next month (funny stuff)


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April 24, 2006

 

Corinne M. Thompson
  Okay, I'm going to throw in my two cents. I had an opportunity last week to view a contest judging. It took 3 judges almost an hour to go thru 35-40 images, to pick I beleive it was 10 or 11 "finalists" (they used different terms) and 1 "winner". It was very interesting to watch, and when it was over I thought, no wonder it takes BP so long to do the judging! Gave me a new appreciation for the time they must spend doing it.

I guess I will join the "Get a Life Club"...I thought the only life there was was BP! LOL

I'm definitely in the "No LimitClub".

As for the "family & friends" rumour, I believe it is just that...rumour.

Crystal,I don't believe anyone was trying to be disrespectful...just venting their opinions/frustations about the time delay. I also think they should stick to the deadline posted. And I too, missed that boat...Darn!

I enjoy this site tremendously, I've learned alot and enjoy the friendships I've made, and if I get a finalist or win...fine, if not, that's fine too.
Winning wasn't my goal when I joined here...but when it happens it's a nice pat on the back!

Anyway, this has been a fun and entertaining thread to read on a Monday...Good Luck to ALL!



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April 24, 2006

 

Corinne M. Thompson
  Great idea Carolyn...Take a pic! :)


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April 24, 2006

 

Barbara Helgason
  Nope, haven't believed that for a while, I didn't even expect this months finalists announcements till today. Next month I will be away and won't have access to a computer till the 28th! Halleluja!!!


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April 24, 2006

 

Barbara Helgason
  I've been reading some of your comments here and here are my thoughts on the subject for whatever it's worth. First of all I think the judges who ever they are do a great job on the judging aspect. However, let's be realistic, the contest, free as it may be, makes this site, without it, most of us wouldn't be here. Now I don't like to be kept waiting, I was taught from an early age that it is rude to keep people waiting. I don't really care what day the finalists or winners are announced, just don't tell us it will be on the 21st if its not. How about a small announcement saying "we are overwhelmed with this month's number of pictures and will announce the finalists on the 28th of this month." Now what's wrong with that? I think a very simple solution and a considerate way to treat the people who in the end, when all is said and done are your customers and make Betterphoto what it is today, one of the most popular photography websites in the world.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  WE CAN ONLY HOPE THAT JIM MIOTKE HAS READ THIS THREAD!!! YOU R 150% RIGHT BARBARA!


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April 24, 2006

 

Mary Binford
  I have been reading this thread with interest. What do you think of an automatic email to all contestants announcing that the judging has been completed? That way we don't have to keep checking the website for results and there is no doubt as to the status of our entries. BP could then promise to have the judging completed by the end of month. I just want to know when to stop the anticipation. Incidentally, I have been a finalist only once so don't really expect to win. The fun is in the anticipation, but I want to know when to stop anticipating.


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April 24, 2006

 

Robyn Gwilt
  This was on the POTD - received Sun 23rd April - so come guys, give them a break, its not like there's a million bucks up for grabs - as Corinne said, its all about a pat on the back :) 'Robyn hands out pats to all of you'! Now I'm off to bed!!

Hi Everybody,
Just a note to let you know that the judges are working very hard to finish selecting the finalists for the March contest. As always, there were so many fantastic entries to consider! So please hang in there - the judges will be announcing the finalists soon. Thanks for your patience...
BetterPhoto.com


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April 24, 2006

 

Debra Booth
  Maybe it would help if they added more categories because it could reduce the number of photos per category. Sure, they would still get thousands of entries, but they wouldn't have as many in each category to sift through. That might make it easier. Look how popular Black and White theme has been. It could be a permanent new category. In the past, people have suggested a Still Life category.


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April 24, 2006

 

Cris . ( D.K. )
  maybe we should all go on strike next month??


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April 24, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  "WE CAN ONLY HOPE THAT JIM MIOTKE HAS READ THIS THREAD!!!"


Does that include the elephant comment?
A strike sounds like a good idea. Take a real loooonnggg one.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  I think everyone from BP is out on photos shoots for $$$ and its poor Heather left with the uprising. lol I am sure she will post the 1 percent of finalist soon.


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April 24, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  I dont think most of us have a problem with them being delayed, but more the fact of giving a date and then not living to it. As mentioned, dont put a date on it, when you put a date to something, people will hold you to it and rightfully so. Its obvious that they have a lot of pictures to judge, its then best to say "we'll have the finalists picked by the end of the month". No reason to set expectations and then not live up to them. One of my biggest pet pieves is people who are late! Cant stand it!! If you tell people it will be sometime near the end of the month, then you're not holding your word on a date that you cant necessarly hold. Im just glad this means I still have a chance :)


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  I DON'T THINK ANYONE SHOULD BE DISQUALIFIED FOR VOICING THEIR OPINION (especially when we are right). They have to know we are waiting and they have to know we are anxious and they have to know that this is not fair. We have done nothing wrong except to want to see the lucky finalists and winners. It's exciting no matter who wins.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Im sure no one will be disqualified but I am afraid that the changes BP will need to take in the future will be more painful like last months reduction of finalist When I saw that they have reduced the amount of finalist to 2 percent, I knew my chances were slim to none to win anything again. This was one of the few contests on the web that seem a little bit of everything for everyone. I find that disappearing in just a few short months.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  "I think everyone from BP is out on photos shoots for $$$ and its poor Heather left with the uprising."

If the tulips are still in bloom up in the Northwest who in their right mind would be inside judging a contest when they can be out shooting fields of tulips?!? I'll still be here when they get done :o)! Antsy maybe, but still here :D

I think they should just start requiring everyone to have a Premium Gallery to enter the contest. Heck, it's no more expensive than a year's subscription to Outdoor Photographer (probably less expensive) and a heck of a lot more fun. Then it might cut down on some of the totally ridiculous entries they have to sift through each month. In case no one noticed it seems to me the entry numbers ballooned when they began giving away free galleries.

I'm ducking!


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  So in essence, the more successful THEY get the WORSE it is for us? That makes no sense. Maybe the changes chould be on THEIR end and not on ours. I post one photo a day - no more and yes, I would like to win but in all the years I have been a member, that has never happened. I like learning from what others post more than anything. The fact that they cannot post the finalists on time is NOT our issue, it's theirs and THEY need to address it and addressing it does NOT mean penalizing us.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  In a year it will be over 40000 entries or more. 100 more people is 3000 more entries to deal with a month.


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April 24, 2006

 

Andreas G. Karelias
  I agree with the posts above, I am also anxious for the results and I am very dissapoited by the fact that they have not been posted yet.

One thing that I do not understand about this competition, is how some photos manage to have so many praises in such a short period of time, following their upload. Some of them are really great shots, but some are simply mediocre. I am not the best photographer in the world but a number of my pictures have enjoyed praise from tutors, have been chosen as POTWs in my BP classes, some have been selected by magazine editors in the competitions run by their respective web sites, and in the BP competition I will be lucky to get 3-4 comments from fellow members. Am I missing something here?


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Alot belong to the yahoo group and post of their club members images. Alot belong to the "I will post on yours if you post on mine" way of thinking. I've even seen great images snubbed because the person doesnt have time to post. I work 10 hours a day (sick today) and only have 15 minutes in the am and too tired at night to do much of anything. I've seen some with over 50 post with a not so hot image get raves. But they are friends so understandable. Like all websites, they all have politics.


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Andreas,
I just looked at your gallery and it is magnificent!!!!! You have variety, you have an incredible eye and I can't understand why your photos have not won!


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  I know I don't belong to a yahoo group. I check the recent entries throughout the day and comment on photos that I enjoy. I don't look to see who the "shooter" is, I look at the photo. It gives me a nice break from the intensity of my job to stop for a few minutes and look at beautiful pictures.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Back to the contest, Maybe they are going to post the winners first this time lol...


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April 24, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Well it's 5:45 EASTERN time so our day is almost over and still nothing!


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April 24, 2006

 

Andreas G. Karelias
  Joyce thank you very much indeed. I have some hopes for the March competition, and therefore you can understand my anxiety, like everyone else's.

I did not know about yahoo groups etc. In any case if this happens, it is all crap! I also comment on images that I like, and sometimes I point out things that I do not like.

I only hope that the number of friendly praises does not influence the judges.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  I haven't seen the number of comments influence the judging, I think the judges like what they like, just like everyone else. I dont think they see names or posts at the time they look at them.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  "I only hope that the number of friendly praises does not influence the judges."

I have had several finalists where I had NO comments prior to receiving my finalist. I'd about bet money commenting has no influence on the judges.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

BetterPhoto Member
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  No way would they have time to look at comments.


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April 24, 2006

 

Don Williams
  Andreas, don't get upset at no /few comments from other members. I had a finalist last month and not one comment until after it was chosen. I have found though that if I want to generate a discussion, I put a comment in under constructive critique. It does seem like there is a "club" within BP but that's up to them and it makes me value all the more comments from people who don't have all day to look at and comment on photos. Keep up the good work Andreas.


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April 24, 2006

 

Barbara Helgason
  As we wait, how about checking out the live eagle webcam situated on Hornby Island, British Columbia, Canada. The male and female take turns on the nest, turn the 2 eggs every half hour or so and the first egg is expected to hatch on April 26. This site has become hugely popular all over the world! http://www.infotecbusinesssystems.com/wildlife/
Something to keep us busy in case we still haven't heard by then.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  You can always watch the Old Faithful cam at Yellowstone too :o)! Kinda boring right this minute but it's a little bit fun when people start gathering to watch an eruption.

http://www.nps.gov/yell/oldfaithfulcam.htm

BTW, all I could see was a black window on the eagles cam. Anyone else having that problem?


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  Another isnteresting one is earthcam.com for time square. http://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/timessquare/ Thanks for all the to do sites. I find it all fasinating. I did see the eagles, took a minute to load.


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April 24, 2006

 

Jim Macino
  And yet another interesting one (but's 3 am there), is the Western or "Wailing" Wall in Jerusalem. Looks like it's raining right now.
http://www.aish.com/wallcam/
That was an interesting place to visit.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Sherry Stricklin Boles

BetterPhoto Member
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  Andreas, When I first joined BP I knew one person. I rarely got comments...or at least more than one. Then I began to get to know some people through commenting on their photos (because I genuinely liked their stuff) and started to get more comments. The more comments I made, the more comments I received...It's a courtesy thing here. [You get a comment, go visit that person's gallery and if you see something you like, leave a comment.]
I seem to remember seeing a winner with no comments until it won. I know that I have sometimes been the first to comment on a finalist. Commenting is for our pleasure and obviously has no influence on the judges.


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April 24, 2006

 

KV Day
  I guess its not going to be today either. Everyone have great evening.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  I'm beginning to wonder if they won't be making the announcements all at once. The winners right on the heels of the finalists. The announcement for winning usually comes a couple of days past the finalist announcement doesn't it? This is getting interesting :o)!


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April 24, 2006

 

Brendan Knell
  "Then I began to get to know some people through commenting on their photos (because I genuinely liked their stuff) and started to get more comments. The more comments I made, the more comments I received...It's a courtesy thing here. [You get a comment, go visit that person's gallery and if you see something you like, leave a comment.]"

I agree Sherry, it's a courtesy thing. When I first joined, I got no comments, and slowly as I've gotten to know more people I've gotten more comments. I think if someone comments on your photo, I think that you should try to at least take a look at their gallery. If you don't have time, and don't, it's not like we're going to shun you, but if you can, please do. The reason for this, is that a lot of noiviences(sp?) comment on peoples photos, hoping that someone will give them some CC, to help better their photography.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sam Tallman
  Wait a minute...there is a picture of the day also? This site is so big I must have missed it maybe? If so, please tell me where I can find it.

I'm new here, but I have been a member of other sites. I realize that the judges being late on the finalists is on everyones mind. But I think that the quality of this site is so good, the administrators will address the issue. This site is run by good, quality people with members that reflect that quality. Threads like this one keeps the admins in tune to the problems/needs of the members. Give the site admins a chance to address the issue. I think that you will find they will do their best to resolve the issue.

Sam


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April 24, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Welcome to BP, Sam! To the left you'll notice a whole bunch of choices down the side of the page. Home, Courses, Short Courses, etc. Down at Newsletters if you roll your mouse over it you'll see a link to the POTD archives.


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April 24, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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  There's elephants too.
But all the drama gave me a google idea.
http://digg.com/links/Website_for_people_with_nothing_better_to_do

The more you post, the quicker they'll get here.


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April 24, 2006

 

Sakthik .
  Well, it is 25th today still no results.
I am not blaming BP for not publishing their results. As a member we deserve atleast a courtesy message on the website. Now no one has any clue when it will be published.
Lets wait and see.


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April 25, 2006

 

KV Day
  LOL anyone else find it ironic that Jim isnt even in Seattle, hes in San Diego? I went from amused to disappointed to frustrated to being totally blown away by all this. A courtesy update should have been put out daily. Have a great day all, including Jim. Wonder if the grand prize winner will want the pass to the 2nd annual BP gathering in Seattle lol (doubtful)


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  I cannot believe that they another day has come and still no finalists? And not even the COURTESY of a note explaining WHY nothing has happened? HEY BP JUDGES! - YOUR ARE RUDE!!!!!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Peter Hundley
  Well, I'm kind of new here, but reading over this thread (and from discussions with a few of you I've gotten to know) I can discern a few things. The contest seems to suffer from continuously missed deadlines, even despite those deadlines being pushed back.

I know that BP, and the folks who run it, are doing lots of different things. BP runs a very large slate of on-line classes. They run seminars, workshops and radio shows. They do web hosting, galleries and forums.. The owner is out of state doing presentations when the cantest is overdue....

There's really only one conclusion: The contest is low on their list of an overfull plate of priorities. If it was a top (or even high) priority, then it would consistantly be late. It presumably serves as an opportunity to create traffic, and thus promote their other services.

We, as participants, either need to accept it, or quit participaing. Simple as that.


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April 25, 2006

 

Daniel Diaz
  Everyone, lets all calm down, BP is a great place and these things happen, let's show a little restraint and patience please.

P.S Good luck to everyone!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  An occasional snafu is ok but this seems to be a pattern. It ISN'T a priority to them. Actions surely speak louder than words.


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April 25, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

BetterPhoto Member
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  Danny, I think their point is, these things ALWAYS happen, not just occasionally. I think Peter's conclusion is right on the mark.


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April 25, 2006

 

Margie Hurwich
  Perfectly said, Daniel!

Joyce, change your priorities for the day. Instead of waiting for the finalists, get out your camera and create the most amazing photo that anyone has ever seen. You would be a much happier person!


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April 25, 2006

 

Daniel Diaz
  How's this for an Idea. There are tons of great photographers at BP who could help out with Judging, at least for the finalists. Let's say two people per category, this would help the "real" judges greatly. I for one would have no problem lending a hand for free. The only catch would be you can't Judge a category you've submitted in.
But then again who says I'm qualified, LOL!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  LMAO!!!!!! U know it really does not matter who the finalists are at this point, it's the principle of the thing that has me miffed. It is beautiful out today and I wish I could go shooting but alas there is work to be done so that is what I shall do. I respect and admire everyone who posts on BP and I truly LOVE BP, but the people who run it???????? well I think little of them at this point so since there are more participants than "managers", I am content to continue because I really love seeing what everyone submits and I truly feel I learn from it but I could care less now about that contest.


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April 25, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

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  That's been tried and rejected. Murry Grigsby offered his judging abilities several years ago as did a few others and the answer they got pretty much said the proceedure was too complicated to teach to outsiders.


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April 25, 2006

 

Rebecca A. Steed
  It's not like any of us spent any money for this, it is a 'gift' from this site and if ya'll want to keep complaining about a free contest, they may just take it away since they're doing it on their own time and handing out awards FOR FREE. No, I don't think that it is their full-time job to judge a photo contest, it's not like judging in a courtroom. They are doing it for us. I prefer it late than never. I'm anxious too, but I think calling them rude and inprofessional is stepping over the line. If we paid to enter, it would be different.


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Becky,
I think they are rude, very rude and if you think this is acceptable, then you have not been treated very well by people. I love submitting! but u know what, I don't EVER want to a finalist ever again. I would rather submit for the joy of it and comment on those photos I like and let that be the end of it. I mean the prizes are not that great to begin with. It's just exciting to be recognized as opposed to being ignored which is what is happening now.


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April 25, 2006

 

Daniel Diaz
  Becky is 100% correct.

Carolyn- That was a few years ago, BP is MUCH more busy now. As for the complications in Judging, I'm sure we can agree that there are more than enough members here who can pick Finalists as good, if not better than the current crop. No offence to the judges of course LOL!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  Here's where the pattern becomes a problem. We know that the contest is free....however, im sure this contest has brought them a LOT of money from Premium galleries that are from people attracted by the contest. I dont think people are upset that the winners havent been announced yet, but the fact that they set a deadline and did not meet it (for whatever reason, right or wrong, they missed it). Now what happens when you're suppose to have some of your course work reviewed and are told a date it would be completed by and the date passes without any review? Do you just say "be patient" even though you paid for the service? Even though the contest is free, it sets a bad precidence to give deadlines that you KNOW you cannot keep....all this would be solved by saying "contest results will be posted near the end of the month". Very simple, no expectations for a specific date...but give a specific date and dont live up to it....thats what seperates professionals from the amatuers.

Now do I think theyre rude for it....no, do I think its unprofessional....YES!


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April 25, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  Joyce - somehow I don't believe you take only "a few minutes" to peruse BP entries to take a short break at work!!! LOL IMPOSSIBLE!! It's too mesmerizing - I've tried it, I get lost in time! :D I have to pinch myself to get back to reality!

As for the judging, well, I quit my day job over a year ago to devote more time to photography, and I have learnt to take one day at a time, and let very little bother me (even the rising price of gas!) The announcement will be made when it's time comes! ;) Besides, my photography business is beginning to take off and I haven't had time to post either photos or comments like I used to, and I thank everyone who has taken the time to comment on my work recently and feel VERY guilty for not commenting more on many of the outstanding entries - recent back injury, now resolved, and escalating business (yay $$$$$)are my sorry excuses :D

As for the prizes not being that great, I would be thrilled to win the grand prize, and chuffed to bits to win anything else, but it isn't the prize that matters, it's the learning and appreciation, and meeting all you great people that is most important to me.

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE, and remember, patience is a virtue! ;)
Ann


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April 25, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  Oh yeah, and if you really can't stand it - go shopping :D, but don't forget to carry your camera in case you get that million dollar shot! :D


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  DigitalPhotoContest allowed members to be judges and basically the same members won POTD day in and day out. BTW, DPC is no more!

While I wouldn't mind helping judge myself I don't know how great an idea I think it is. The members offering to fill in as judges should not participate at all in the contest IMHO. Not just a particular category. I have always liked the idea of competing against professionals and being judged by professionals. I do not think pros have any greater appreciation for a great image, but I think it lends more prestige to a win. Just my 2 cents :O)!


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April 25, 2006

 

Casey A. Hanson
  I agree, Sharon. I think it makes you work harder, and want to reach that "next level".
And I would really hate to see this site turned into a popularity contest, instead of a photography contest. We have enough of those already. :0)


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April 25, 2006

 
- Carolyn M. Fletcher

BetterPhoto Member
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  Exactly! I was just gonna say that, Casey! Because that's what you get when you get "civilian" judges is a popularity contest, even if it's not intended that way.


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Elisabeth,

YES, IT IS THE RECOGNITION AND THE COMMENTS I will focus on, NOT THIS CONTEST ANYMORE.

Since the site has become soooooo popular and everyone loves it (yes me too) then what is the answer for the people who manage/own the site? To ignore us?????? or to do what is necessary to make it even better??????
I am not a business owner but I have managed many businesses and if you do not address customer satisfaction in a timely manner pretty soon you will have no customers. When a business becomes successful and therefore busier, the answer is not to let customer satisfaction be ignored because WE are the customers and I DO PAY for my website like many others.

I DO stop what I'm doing THROUGHOUT the day and look at the recent entries. it allows me a break from a very intense job. I DO NOT spend 5 minutes on each photo, I am NOT a judge, when my eye catches something I like, I then comment because I know that small comment can boost the confidence of the submitter. I do not look at the name of the submitter, I look at the photo.

No, I don't ever expect to find that million dollar photo and no I do not carry my camera around with me like some tourist. As I have tried to convey before, it is the PRINCIPLE of the matter I take issue with.

LET US ALL AGREE TO DISAGREE ON THIS. PLEASE!

Just because it's free does not mean we should accept being treated this way. I have been a FAITHFUL member for several years as many others have. Is this the thanks we deserve?


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April 25, 2006

 

Barbara Helgason
  BetterPhoto is a business.
We are it's customers, aka photographers, students, participants, gallery owners etc.


Simply put, this is not how I treat my customers, this is not how I like to be treated, and it is very dissapointing. Come on Betterphoto, your customers are not happy! Do something about it!


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April 25, 2006

 

Amy JACKSON
  I thought for sure the finalists would be out by today!!! I would not be so anxious but I have not received one finalist yet! I did not join this site for the contest either, in fact it took me a while to enter any pictures. I know they have a big job to do, so many great photos!! I agree that maybe there should not be a date to expect them, I would be fine with them being posted by the end of the month. If I receive a comment from someone I always visit their galley and can always find a picture that I like to comment on. I don't think of it as a game but for me it helps keep me shooting and the comments are so encouraging! I have put images into constructive critique for input and got none before!! So I really appreciate it when someone can take the time to comment on a picture. I have learned a lot from BP but would like to learn much more. It helps to have input. Good luck all!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Christopher P. Murray
  I know we are all very anxious to see the winners, but I am sure the judges are judging. What helps me retain my patience is the hope that I may have a finalist. Now isn't that hope better than the finality of knowing you haven't placed. We will know in time, they heve to put the winners up eventually. good luck to all.


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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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April 25, 2006

 

Corinne M. Thompson
  http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/dynoGallDetail.php?photoID=2032272

Just a little something to take our minds off the Finalists for those who wish to participate :)


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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
Contact Gregory LaGrange
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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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  Wrong direction, oh well.

I am not a business owner but I have managed many businesses..."
Ever give away free stuff during your management days? And didn't that always take a back seat to what you were in business for?

"WE are the customers and I DO PAY for my website like many others."
How many customers have problems with the things you pay for?

"I DO stop what I'm doing THROUGHOUT the day and look at the recent entries. it allows me a break from a very intense job."
It's dosen't seem that intense or you're really don't want to be there.


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April 25, 2006

 

Debbie Del Tejo
  This reminds me of when my grandkids are waiting for Santa and counting the days.


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April 25, 2006

 

Corinne M. Thompson
  Disregard my previous post, games over!


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  I'm working on a church directory. I'd just be happy if the software would do what it's supposed to LOL.


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April 25, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  Joyce, my comments were intended to be lighthearted, not to get you angry. sorry if I offended you in some way. A lot of meaning gets lost in the printed work and the interpretation.

Best of luck everyone, I'm sure we will hear something soon.


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Ann, you totally do not have anything to apologize for! I'm sure most of us are only on this thread because we can't be outside for one reason or another. It's SPRING, we should be out taking pics!

I'm trying to tie up a project I'm working on or I'd definitely be taking a photo break about now. You all know what they say about a "watched pot."


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April 25, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  "This reminds me of when my grandkids are waiting for Santa and counting the days."

Ok, i'll bite.....and what would their reactions be when Santa comes 4 days late, without notice because he took on a few new countries and delayed him? lol

As has been stated, your word is your word, regardless if its something free. If I were new and this was my only experience with BP, I wouldnt be thinking about paying for any services because I wouldnt trust their deadline dates. If im on vacation and wanted to get an entry in the March contest but didnt get home till April, should I be allowed to enter in March's because its a free contest and doesnt really matter?

Gregory: Understandable that the free contest would take a back seat, but dont you think it would be appropriate to give your customers notice of that? Maybe a disclaimer saying "due to business volume,the date may change"? Thats the biggest problem with everyone...this should be a lesson to BP that they really shouldnt put a date that they will post the finalist that they know they cannot keep. Afterall, your word is your word (free or not)....or is it?


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Elisabeth,
Please don't worry. I am in no way angry. I simply feel we deserve better.

Gregory,
I work 12-14 hours a day as a medical coder IN FRONT OF A COMPUTER. It is my job to assign diagnosis and procedure codes for a very large family practice/sports medicine practice. it IS intense as I am staring at numbers both on the screen and in very large books ALL DAY LONG! Taking a few minutes away from that to look at beautiful photos is a pleasure I welcome. I am fortunate also to be able to work from home so I am VERY happy with my job. I see that money comes in so that the physicians and staff can be paid and so that the other bills in the office are paid. I also have to be very mindful of customer service skills as I deal with patients who never seem to want to pay their medical bills. Again, taking a short break to look at beautiful photos is a welcome break. I have also been fortunate enough to have taken a vacation or 2 to Disneyworld and they are the BEST when it comes to customer service. EVERYONE SHOULD TREAT THEIR CUSTOMERS THE WAY DISNEY DOES. I know I do. How about you?


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  THANK YOU ERIK!!!!

You understand where I am coming from. Your word is your word.


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April 25, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  Joyce, as we say in the islands, I hear dat! :D And as you have noticed I've been popping in and out of the forum so you know I'm checking for the results just like everyone else! And trying hard to stay cool and not grind my teeth ;)

Well, at least I get to go out for a while now, if only to do mundane household shopping - I'll check y'all back later ;)


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April 25, 2006

 

Peter Hundley
 
I guess we all need to find soemthing different to amuse ourselves...


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April 25, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  "I guess we all need to find soemthing different to amuse ourselves..."

This is the whole point.....that is the LAST thing BP should want us to do. This type of reaction is a tribute to what BP has built. Its the biggest challenge in business......how to deliver the same type of service you did to get the people here, once you've become successful. I would have to guess that most of us here all think BP has become very successful, but once you start to go away from the things that made you successful is when you start to lose customers (faithful/longtime customers). Being in the IS world, Dell would be a good example....Dell was known for great customer service when it started out.....ask many people involved with Dell (from a customer standpoint) if their service is better or even the same as it was, now that it is the leader in business....probably wont find to many who say it is.

Im definately not mad that they havent released the finalists, as Ive said, I still have a chance :) but i've had customer service beat into my head for the last 10 years and this would be the shining example of bad customer service


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April 25, 2006

 
- Dr Silly

BetterPhoto Member
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Dr Silly's Gallery
  Ok my turn to vent.

VENT.

Sorry could not help myself.

Bump a nose and have some fun.
Doc


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April 25, 2006

 

Margie Hurwich
  Great answer, Doc! Nice to know your given name!


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  LOL Doc!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  BRAVO DOC!!!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Rhonda Thornton-Hecker
  I'm so glad I found this thread. I thought I saw a date of the 21st, but when I saw no finalists I figured was just crazy. Now I understand, the judges just missed the due date......or we are all crazy.....


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  We're probably all crazy :o)!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  YES, THAT'S IT!!!!! WE'RE ALL NUTS!!!
At least I feel that way about now. Think I'll get back to my unimportant job now. Can't be checking threads or critiquing photos. LMAO!!!!!!!


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April 25, 2006

 
- Crystal E. Berryman

BetterPhoto Member
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Crystal E. Berryman's Gallery
  I just love popping in to enjoy Peter's graphics...so cool!!
I have two cameras, a tripod and all the needed asssessories in my truck and heading out to take more pics. One day my brother-in-law said he'd never seen me without my camera-BUT at church, I leaned in, smiled and said, "Just give me time..." LOL!! Have a good day everyone..Peter LOVE the graphics.
Chris :)
Chris


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April 25, 2006

 

Sylvia Rossler
  They're out !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  noooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

it a halucination!!!!!

i know i'm not on there. lmao!!!!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  Well, there goes my hope :( Im disapointed though, I thought this one would have a chance.....I still think its better then some of the other butterfly ones in macro and detail, but what do I know.

http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/big.php?photoID=1905169&catID=&style=&rowNumber=19&memberID=88344


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April 25, 2006

 

KV Day
  I got zero zipp, nada. Congrats all!


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April 25, 2006

 

Peter Mantione
  Worth the wait I got 3 finalist!!!!!!!!

I took a quick look I can see why it takes so look to pick finalists, there are lots of awesome images!!!!! Contrats to all

Peter


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  I KNEW I WOULD NOT GET ANYTHING. I'VE OBVIOUSLY PISSED SOMEONE OFF. It does not matter. I am SSOOOOOOO VERY HAPPY for those who made it.


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April 25, 2006

 

Elisabeth A. Gay
  Hmm, 2nd month in a row and nothing - does that constitute a drought? Mind you I haven't posted much, although I had hoped ONE of the hummingbirds would have made it! - congrats to everyone who did make it and good luck in the next round! Awesome work!


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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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Gregory LaGrange's Gallery
  What's the medical code for stick-up-the-butt removal.
Any kind of announcement date for free contest, I would know that by looking at a link and not seeing them there, that the results would come as soon as they can put them up. Needing something like that written in stone is just being a cry baby. It dosen't take much brains to know that they do things in good faith, if they run late with anything, they just run late. I know there's some sincerity in them trying to get things done.
Even at disney land, I know there's going to be times you have to wait. And no matter how great their customer service may be, I know it's pointless throwing a bitch fest because somebody can't tell you exactly how long you have to wait for something.


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April 25, 2006

 

Angela K. Wittmer
  OH MY GOSHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! I got my very first FINALIST ever!!!!! I am so exited! Now I am motivated to do more! Thanks everyone!!


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April 25, 2006

 

Joyce Baldassarre
  Gregory,
I can honestly say I have never encountered anyone on BP who is as rude and ignorant as you are. I believe in treating people the way I would like to be treated and therefore will NOT tell you what you can do with yourself now will I respond to any correspondence from you in the future. It is no surprise that BP's shotty treatment towards us does not offend you as you are clearly as bad as them if not worse.


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April 25, 2006

 

Erik Rasmussen
  "Any kind of announcement date for free contest, I would know that by looking at a link and not seeing them there, that the results would come as soon as they can put them up. Needing something like that written in stone is just being a cry baby."

Nice to see you've completely missed the point....its not us asking for a date, theyre the ones putting up the date....all most have asked is that they stick to the date "THEY" put up ( not us), or not put a date at all.


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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

BetterPhoto Member
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Gregory LaGrange's Gallery
  How do you treat your elephants?


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April 25, 2006

 

Lauren R. Yackuboskey
  Congrats to all the finalists!


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April 25, 2006

 

Natalie J. Manuel
  My worst image got a finalist, I don't get it!


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April 25, 2006

 

Lauren R. Yackuboskey
  Natalie, if that's your worst, I don't think you have anything to worry about :) Beautiful gallery...
Congratulations!


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April 25, 2006

 

Brendan Knell
  "How's this for an Idea. There are tons of great photographers at BP who could help out with Judging, at least for the finalists."

The last time we had a thread like this, I suggested something similar. What I suggested is that they get some of us to help weed out the everyday, just ok, snapshots. If we saw one of ours, we just ignore it. All we would do, is remove photos from the contest, so it shouldn't turn out to be a popularity contest(we could even have something like the judges do, so we just see the pics, no names). If you're still worried obout foul play, they could make it so 2 or even 3 people have to say it needs to come out before it comes out. So even if we only remove a few thousand entries in the month, and even that should dramaticaly help the judges.


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April 25, 2006

 

KV Day
  I think this one has been beat to death lol...I dont think they are doing anything wrong with the judging, great images chosen. There are a few sites that have participants judge. Gets ugly. I just think remove the dates for posting finalist so there is no expectations. There are so many great images, I wouldnt want the job. And Joyce, I really hope you arent being "punished". I dont think thats the case, but if you are, shame on them. Every opinion should be valued good or bad. Its just another part of BP that makes it successful!


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April 25, 2006

 

Cathy M. Gromball
  Ummm... I just wondered if anyone else has noticed that some of the March finalists are photos that were posted in previous months/years, particularly on the last few pages. I'm not trying to be nitpicky, because they are wonderful photos, but it seems a bit weird.

Cathy :)


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Natalie, if you don't like your finalist I'll take it :o)!


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April 25, 2006

 

Brendan Knell
  Vicki, I don't think that they're doing anything wrong. Far from it actually. Jim has said that they can't afford to hire more judges, and I'm suggesting an alternative. Because within 6 months, we'll probably be up to about 40,000 entries, and it'll probably take another 1-2 weeks for the judging. The reason that they gave for not wanting to do this last time, is that the judging program is too complecated. I think that for some people that's true, but we've got a lot of computer savy people here(myself included).


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April 25, 2006

 

Lauren R. Yackuboskey
  Cathy,
I noticed that as well... I'm pretty new to this site but I thought maybe they were just resubmitted or something.


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April 25, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  "but we've got a lot of computer savy people here(myself included)."
But you also trouble figuring out where to put a landscape picture. Is it really a fix to something that's not really broken, or will it just shift the drama to "okay, who are the member judges that are voting, are their monitors properly calibrated because some pictures should've won while others I saw should."


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April 25, 2006

 
- Dennis Flanagan

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Dennis Flanagan's Gallery
  The rules clearly state you can submit a photo as many times as you want, just not multiple times in the same month.


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April 25, 2006

 

Justin G.
  The only thing I'm predicting is another argument the 20th of May when counting down for April. Another thread for how to judge.


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April 25, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Justin, Counting Down is totally NOT about telling the judges how to judge. It's just SUPPOSED to be a fun thread to pass the time the last week until the finalists are announced. There's nothing wrong with members displaying their favorite pick from the past month, and it's not intended to influence judging or rag on BP so there's really no need to get snarky!


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April 26, 2006

 

Margie Hurwich
  Sharon, this isn't the counting down thread. The counting down thread has never turned out to be like this thread...which in my opinion is insane. I think Justin is right on this as I'm sure this thread...in addition to the counting down thread...will take place if the judges are late. And if they are late, so be it!


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April 26, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Margie, Justin mentioned the "counting down" thread (just above^^^) in the same context as this thread. I like to think the one I start each month will maintain courtesy towards BP, but in reality I can't control that. I can state for a fact I have not been asked by BP staff NOT to begin those threads each month and I can assure Justin (and anyone else) that it is not my intention to "get something started" when I begin those threads.


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April 26, 2006

 

Margie Hurwich
  Fully agree, Sharon. I for one LOVE the counting down thread. For these reasons, I love seeing everyone's favorite shot for the month...AND I love how there isn't anything negative to BP. In all of the months that I've participated in your thread, I can't think of one negative comment. Did enjoy the drinking while waiting (lol)! I truly don't think Justin meant the "counting down" thread...just that this thread was also during the count down timeframe.


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April 26, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  Thanks, Margie! I enjoy the counting down thread as well. I even get an email reminder each month when it's due LOL.


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April 26, 2006

 
- Gregory LaGrange

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  What's the due date?


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April 26, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  LOL Gregory!!! YOU won't have any trouble sniffing it out :o)!


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April 26, 2006

 

Cathy M. Gromball
  Me again...

I know the rule about submitting a photo as many times as we want, just not multiple times in the same month, but if you check out the last three pages of March finalists, you will see that there is no mention of these photos being re-submits, and the discussion threads all start in previous months/years. Usually if a photo is re-submitted, the discussion threads start new in the month re-submitted. Maybe I'm missing something...

Cathy :)


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April 26, 2006

 

Justin G.
  Sharon, it was not my intent to offend you or get sparky, I was just being a smart-elic. I was just simply saying (and not ONLY your thread but others as well) that the last couple of months there have been a LOT of gripes about the deadlines and whatnot. I was just trying to make a funny saying that next month when we share what we want to win in a fun thread, it will probably turn into more debates about the deadlines and everything. Please accept this as my apology in offending you. Cheers.


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April 26, 2006

 

Sharon Day
  I apologize too, Justin! I wasn't exactly offended as much as I just didn't want anyone thinking I start threads to bash BP :o)! I think I'm having a bad day. I'll go take a nap or something LOL. Have a good day everyone!


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April 26, 2006

 

Justin G.
  And Sharon I have no problems with your threads either (wouldn't mean squat if I did anyways) and I wasn't referring your thread to the gripe thread, all I meant was that I'm predicting when the time comes there'll be more bickering by everyone, no matter the thread.

P.S. You're thread is nice to show off your best one and see everyone else's. Thanks for leading it.


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April 26, 2006

 

Denyse Clark
  Countdowns & threads with anticipation & excitment is good & fun. We ARE all excited, it's fun to see if you make the cut from the thousands of photos!

But complaining if they're late, I just don't get. Don't we all have way more stuff to worry about in life than if the photo finalists are a week late? Patience is a virtue! (or so I hear, lol)


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April 26, 2006

 
chrisbudny.com - Chris Budny

BetterPhoto Member
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Chris Budny's Gallery
  Cathy, to get to your question---a photo will not lose the existing discussion thread as long as that photo (ie, that photo ID#) lives on BP. If I entered a photo last Nov., and in the intervening 5 months it gets some chat, and I opt to re-enter it in May---it is the same photo, with the same photo ID. The chat thread is attached to that photo ID, so you will always see the full chat history. (And, we're not required to make any text indication that it is a resubmit.)
If however, I decide to slightly re-crop that "same" photo, or adjust the levels, etc., I must upload my recropped version, which will immediately get a new photo ID, and thus will not have any of the prior photo's chat history, when I enter that version into a contest.
Hope this helps!


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April 26, 2006

 

Nobu Nagase
  Cathy,
I have one of those you are referring to. Some time ago, I also thought it was weird seeing those but someone explained how he does it.

When entering a photo in the contest, you have an option to upload anew or an old entry by PhotoId. When you enter by the PhotoId, you may choose any old photos from your gallery.
Resubmits can be done either way. Most of the time I prefer to upload anew (because many times I re-edit and try to enhance a little) but the one you see on the last page (it's called "Bluebonnet Sunset") was entered by photoid from last April.
It was my favorite that time but did not do any good in the contest. I wanted to give it another chance just one more time, and it made the finalist this time. So, needless to say, I am very happy.

I have seen some finalist photos and even a winning photos have been resubmitted this way, but it's not my practice to re-enter a photo that has made a finalist or any thing else.


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April 26, 2006

 

Kay Beausoleil
  Cathy, to add to Nobi's explanation: the reason you see so many submits on the last pages is because they were reentered by the old photo ID. Therefore, the ID numbers are older than the new entries, and thus are on the last pages because everything on BP is posted in ID order, the newest to the oldest.


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April 26, 2006

 

Cathy M. Gromball
  Thank you, Christopher, Nobi and Kay! I finally understand. I've never re-posted a photo and didn't know how the old photo ID method worked. And I've never noticed it in the Finalists before. Thanks again!

Cathy :)


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April 26, 2006

 
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