Number 10
Any so called rule can be changed at any time at sherstone's discretion
Number 9
If you claim to be following the rules or complain that the rules are not being followed the rules will likely be changed.
Number 8
Each round will have different goals and ideas but will always try to give the participants as much leeway as possible for artistic interpretation.
Number 7
Judges are not given a specific set of instructions that ask for things like: The picture must conform to 'this rounds' theme. Since DSS gives the participants as much artistic control as possible, the judges are encouraged to vote however they feel is both fit and fair. Judges are asked not to participate in the community discussions during a round that they are judging until after they have submitted their choices.
Number 6
While you are encouraged to tell your friends about DSS, in hopes that more budding or even experienced photographers will join in on the fun, it is not encouraged to campaign for votes in any way.
Number 5
DSS is a place to learn about new things. To push each of you to shoot for ideas and images that you normally would not even think of attempting. Questions about whether this is a
'photography', 'design', or 'Photoshop' 'contest' have been asked and debated in the past many times. I am sure that they will never go away but... The real answer is; DSS is none of these things. It is what YOU make it to be for yourself. You will be asked to shoot things and do things that you have never done before and hopefully you will learn something out of the process. If you feel that you are unable to push yourself into new realms skip that round. Every round is designed to mix things up enough that almost anyone will eventually find something that they love to shoot.
Number 4
If you have learned to take your blinders off and have tried out several rounds but something still feels like it could be improved upon then tell us about it here. All ideas are worth hearing and you may even find that they are integrated into DSS for the betterment of the community.
Number 3
Thinking of sending a PM to me to ask a question.
STOP and think if the answer has any potential of helping others as well. You may think only you have this question when in fact many or all others might be wondering the same thing but are afraid to ask. If the question is not of a deeply personal or private nature, I will ask you to post the question in this thread for everyone to see and participate in it's answer. Also I may elect to post the question myself along with the answer at any time. In short.
do not PM me unless it is for a real private reason.
Number 2
While it is not mandatory that you participate in the discussion threads,(unless instructed to do so as part of a theme). It is a great way to make friends, learn from others, and share ideas and opinions.
& finally the number 1 guideline.
Number 1
Please have fun and enjoy yourself.
