SoTShot: A Fair Contest Across Platforms?

@realstyli
That’s a totally fair question, and I get where you’re coming from. It’s true that in many cases, especially with well-composed static shots, the visual differences between high-end console and PC can be pretty subtle - and expecting judges to be forensic experts in graphical fidelity probably isn’t realistic or even desirable.

The “platform split” idea was just one of several suggestions meant to open up a broader discussion, not a definitive solution. I’m definitely not saying it’s the answer - more like an invitation to think about ways the competition could evolve to be more inclusive and transparent, especially given how diverse the player base (and their hardware) is.

Whether it’s categories based on theme, crew size, solo entries, platform, or even rotating judging panels - the main goal is to make it feel fresh and fair for a wider range of participants. Appreciate you engaging with the topic constructively!

@potatosord
Thanks for sharing your thoughts - I can definitely understand where the frustration comes from.

When certain names keep appearing among the winners while so many people participate each time, it naturally raises questions about fairness and transparency. You’re not alone in feeling that way.

I also noticed that you were quoting someone else with the “everything you just said is garbage” line - and while I get that this topic stirs up strong opinions, I think it’s more helpful if we keep things constructive. The more we express our concerns calmly and clearly, the more likely it is that they’ll actually be taken seriously.

For me, the goal of this whole discussion isn’t to discredit individuals, but to explore how the contest could evolve in a way that feels more fair and open to everyone. I appreciate that you’re part of that conversation.

@captainoats420

Regarding your role - I do find your approach interesting. On the one hand, you mention stepping back to give others the chance to be recognised, which I definitely respect. On the other, it sounds like you’re still actively contributing behind the scenes, just without your name on the final post.

That makes me wonder: if your influence still shapes the final result, even indirectly, isn’t that still part of the spotlight in a way? Of course, collaboration and mentoring are valuable - but it does blur the lines a bit between stepping back and staying involved.

Can see your thinking. I only get involved when people ask me, and it’s usually because they would like a second opinion on what may or may not work. Since I’ve stopped submitting shots, I’ve maybe been part of 5/6 that I can remember. Only 1 of those won, so it’s definitely not influenced by my involvement, and it certainly wasn’t known by the judges till after the shot was picked and the poster submitted the names. And even during the winner celebrating the shot being picked, they thanked me for my involvement and I insisted it was all on them.

I can understand the concern behind the contest, but at the end of it, it is for fun.

@tesiccl
Thanks for clarifying - I do appreciate your transparency.

It’s good to know that your involvement is more on-request and not something you actively pursue. Still, I think the point I was trying to make is less about intent and more about perception. Even indirect involvement from a well-known figure can shape the result and how people view the contest - especially when names like yours have become closely associated with winning entries over time.

The fact that one of those collaborations ended up winning does add to the conversation - not because it proves anything conclusive, but because it reflects how difficult it can be to fully separate visibility, influence, and outcome in a small creative community.

And yes, I agree that it’s meant to be fun - and ideally, it stays that way! That’s actually one of the main reasons I’ve been voicing these thoughts: because when people start feeling discouraged or overlooked, it takes away from the fun and inclusivity.

Thanks again for engaging respectfully - it helps to have these kinds of open conversations.