• Only create a single account to participate on pxleyes. (ADDED 11/2009) If you want to use multiple accounts (eg. multiple family members, working from the same ip address) - you need to notify us, so we can give you instructions on how to do this fair.
• DON'T use copyrighted images without approval from the original author, unless the contest description explicitly allows it. There are plenty of sources on the web to find good material, free to use without any licenses, just click on the RESOURCES tab in the top site menu to find suitable stock sites. If you use someone else's image with copyright, post a copy of that permission in your step by step (blackout anything which identifies you to keep the contest anonymous). All sources obtained from the internet must have the source URL provided when you submit your entry. If you use your own personal images, the uncut source must be placed in the step by step with an explanation that it is your image.
  
  All sources that your purchased must have a screenshot of the download receipt in the step guide (blackout anything which identifies you to keep the contest anonymous).
  
  All entries without external sources must have a step by step provided showing how the entry was made.
  
  (UPDATED 08/2009): You are only allowed to use (any kind of) real photos as reference for your entry. You can not use paintings or drawings for this purpose. A reference can be seen as an inspiration or guide for a pose or object. However, as soon as the reference is used as an one on one copy or trace, it won't be seen as reference anymore but as source. In that case ONLY copyrightfree photos can be used to be traced. Don't forget to post reference image sources (stating that it was used only for reference).
  
  (UPDATED 12/2008): If you use a photo of yourself, make sure you don't mention that it's you. If you mention that the person on the photo is you, your entry is no longer anonymous. To do this anonymously, post your photo in the PXLEyes Stock section and post the url to that image, without mentioning that it's you.
  
  (UPDATED 08/2009): If you use 3D renders or illustration as sources, the same rules apply as for normal stock photos. (You're allowed to use copyrightfree illustrations or renders.) You need to mention the url where you got it from, and post permission from the original author (if requested by the author). However, none of these type of images can be used to be traced for in an entry nor can be used as reference. This, to be sure that the original creation will remain with the original author.
  (UPDATED 08/2009): If you use a 3D program to create a model (eg. with Poser), it is required to post this in your step by step guide. You are allowed to use any program you'd like to make your entry. If you make your own renders, please make screenshots from the object in wireframe modus and show in the Step By Step how you made your render. In case you use premade models, always link to the page where the model is from. Be aware that these models have to be free to use.
  (UPDATED 08/2009): Recreating a source image from scratch in a 3D program is allowed, but it's required to post a step by step guide. It is always safest to post each action you did in your step by step guide, no matter what program you use. This will increase the chances of your entry staying in the contest!
  Check image usage guidelines at all times and remember to notify and/or credit when requested otherwise your entry will be removed.
  
  (UPDATED 09/2009):Actual copyrighted images or characters should not be used to create an entry. You may create an image in parody of a copyrighted character as long as the actual copyrighted art of the image is not used to create the entry. You may use the contest source or create the character by original means or with other sources. The character must be shown in a positive manner and not be seen to endorse, promote or suggest the use of any product or negative behavior of any kind. If you use any external sources, provide a link to the source image page containing the image and the information about the author, usage, and description of the image and not the download page.
  
  
  
  No idea what exactly copyright is? Head over to the http://www.whatiscopyright.org/ and read up.
• 
  
  DON'T upload any sources on image hosting sites (like Imageshack for example). If you upload your source to a site like this, we have no way of checking the origin of your image. If you want to use an image of your own in your entry, post it in a SBS guide and mention it in the description.
• DON'T claim you are the owner of an image from someone else.
• DON'T google images or take images from blogs as most are copyright. Also wallpaper images are not images to be used in manipulations.
• DON'T use extreme violence, terrorism, extreme gore, extreme blood, ... in your entries. Some people are very sensitive for this, some are not. Keep your entries suitable for everyone, including children.
• DON'T use pornographic material in your entries. There is a difference between artistic nude and pornographic nude. Your entry should not be offensive to anyone, including children. If you have doubt, you can ask the administration or a moderator first. If we have a contest for adults only, we will have them in an adult-only section.
• DON'T bash any religion or political ideas. Just don't offend anyone with your entry.
• DON'T use someone elses entry from an old contest. You may use one of your old entries in a new contest (not a sequel contest), although new entries will always be better appreciated.
• DON'T submit filter-only works. Take time to make something unique, it will increase your chances of winning.
• DON'T use watermarks on your entry.
• DON'T submit entries to promote your business or website.
• DON'T submit 3 crappy entries to each contest, just to reach the max. number of submissions. It's better to make 1 good entry than to make 3 bad ones. You'll get more satisfaction from it and others will respect your work more :)
• (ADDED 11/2009) Don't submit an entry with the same "subject/object/scenery" more than once - this includes the same contest or any of the other contests current or future. Even over-using the same subject, location or titling should be avoided to preserve your anonymity. Each photo entered during the same contest or in each different contest MUST be an original composition..
• DON'T submit an entry with only a very small moderation compared to another entry of yours in the same contest..
• DON'T mention your name in your image, image name, description or anywhere else. This way the contests stay anonymous..
• DON'T ignore warning messages. You have received it for a reason so act on it. Once you have done what is asked, red flag your entry and explain the changes so that the moderators know.
• DON'T create multiple accounts unless you have permission for it.
• DON'T use an image that has been previously manipulated into artwork, satire etc, even if it is offered under creative commons.
• (ADDED 11/2009) Take any warning message from moderation serious. You have received it for a reason so act on it. Once you have done what you were asked, red flag your entry and explain the changes to let moderation know.
• (ADDED 11/2009) Do not start discussions outside of the forum. Contests comments, entry comments and user comments are meant to leave constructive comments, not discussions.
• (UPDATED 03/2009): DON'T submit entries that are exact copies of a tutorial you've read. Don't copy an entire tutorial idea and submit it as if it's your work. If your entry is very similar to a tutorial result, you'll have to provide the link to the tutorial. Obviously, it is strongly encouraged to learn from tutorials and use what you've learned in your PXLEyes entries. However, it's not very creative to just follow a tutorial exactly (with the same starter image for example) and submit the exact same result as if it is your entry. Use your creativity and give your own interpretation to the things you've learned from various different tutorials.

• Theme contests: Take the time to read the goal of a theme contest. These goals are usually simple and to the point. An off-theme entry can result in removal of the entry.
• 
  Contests with source images: In a source contest it's mandatory to use the source image in your entry. Not only use it, but also manipulate it in some way. Simply using a fantastic image and pasting the contest source on it will probably still look good, but it's not really photoshopping anything. These kind of entries can be removed by a moderator or by the adminstration.
• 
  (UPDATED 09/2009):
  Traditional Drawing contests: In a tradional drawing contest, only scanned entries of handdrawn pictures are allowed. Traditional Drawing on pxleyes is not limited to pencil drawings. You can use any drawing tool, like chalk, a pen or even paint (please mention in your description what tools you used for your drawing) To keep the contests fair, these contests require that you post at least 2 intermediate steps of your drawing in a step by step guide, so we can see the progress of your work. (also on older drawings; on those you can redraw a part of the entry. DON'T TRACE! Show us the technique used and convince us you have the skills)... Digital editing of handmade drawings is not allowed. Reference photos are allowed (no copyrighted images), but should be mentioned in your SBS.
  
  Digital Drawing contests:
  * In a digital drawing contest, your drawing has to be entirely made in a graphics program.
  * Paper drawings are not allowed, but you can use a paper sketch or photo as a reference for your digital work (Don't forget to include this reference in your SBS guide - no copyrighted reference images).
  * To keep the contests fair, these contests require that you post at least 2 intermediate steps of your drawing in a step by step guide, so we can see the progress of your work.
  * (UPDATED 10/2009) Constructing an image with geometrical tools (ellipses, triangles, circles, squares, ...) is not considered drawing.
  * All digital tools are allowed to use.
  * It is NOT allowed to TRACE a reference photo and / or art.
  * Furthermore all normal PXLEyes rules will apply (when in doubt if they contradict: ask!)
  * "simple" brushes are allowed to use in digital drawings. To give you an idea of what we mean by "simple" brush, here are a few examples:
  
  http://creativemac.digitalmedianet.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=34412
  http://www.brusheezy.com/brush/1350-Essential-Brush-Strokes
  http://www.brusheezy.com/brush/1258-Brush-Strokes
  http://inobscuro.com/brushes/view/47/
  http://qbrushes.com/grunge/brush-stroke/
  
  "Complex" brushes are not allowed to use. To give you an idea of what we mean by "complex" brush, here are a few examples:
  
  http://seleneheart.deviantart.com/art/Flourish-Brushes-39043963
  http://xphotoshoperx.deviantart.com/art/Heart-Brushes-79629545
  http://unidentifystudios.deviantart.com/art/20-Animal-Shapes-for-Photoshop-22124931
  
  Good luck!
• 
  3D contests: (UPDATED 11/2009)
  
  * SBS guides are mandatory for 3D contests and MUST contain a brief description with each step.
  * Entries should NOT be posted until the SBS is completed and can be posted at the same time as the entry itself.
  * Blueprints are allowed, but should always be mentioned, and shown in the SBS, with a credit to the author, if required, and with a link to the details page of the blueprint.
  * When custom textures are used, then the author MUST show in the SBS how they were made.
  * When pre-made textures are used then the author MUST provide a link to the texture and provide the necessary credit if required.
  * If your own photos are used as a texture, you MUST include an uncut version of the photo in your SBS
  * If fonts are used on a texture then the you MUST provide a link to the font if it is not a default font for your 2D software.
  * Post processing is allowed in Photoshop, or other relevant imageing software. This also MUST be shown in the SBS.
  * By POST PROCESSING, we mean. Use of image adjustments tools, such as. Brightness/contrast, hue/saturation, curves, shadow/highlight, exposure, levels, blur, color balance.
  * Filters are NOT allowed, tools such as: Liquify, warp etc are NOT allowed.
  * When blueprints are given as the contest theme, then the you must use the blueprint and show its use in the SBS.
  * You must NOT: Use copyrighted textures.
  * You are ALLOWED to model famous/infamous characters, buildings, objects. As long as:
  a) you don't use a copyrighted image to use as a reference plane/blueprint.
  b) If you use a sketch as a reference plane/blueprint, you must show it in your SBS.
  * Background images must be placed on a plane, or other geometry and used in the final render and not added later in photoshop or other software.
  * If you use text in your image, it must be in your final render and not added later in photoshop or other 2D software.
• 
  Photography contests: (ADDED 11/2009)
  Entering photography contests on pxleyes is only possible by uploading a digital copy of your work through the "submit entry" button on the contest page.
  
  Keep your pictures as close as possible to what got recorded when you released the shutter. Refer to the following paragraph to learn what kind of editing will be acceptable.
  
  Only use your own pictures. You must be the original photographer of your entry. To prove your authorship, keep the original with exif data to allow for easy verification. You can use any type of camera, analog or digital, to create the original picture.
  Photographing the work of others in a 'reproductive' way will not constitute a work of your own in the above sense. If you want to enter a picture of another artist's work, take an "interpretative" picture of that piece which holds its own photographic merit. In any case, credit the original artist in your entry properly.
  
  
  Editing your pictures for photography contests (ADDED 11/2009)
  
  In general, you should try to avoid editing your photos, whether in camera or with some editing software on a computer. Being a good photographer also means being able to take good shots without having to edit afterwards. We understand that enhancing pictures after the fact has a long tradition in photography and thus we allow for certain digital darkroom techniques, which is readily available in most photo handling software today.
  
  What tools/alterations MAY I use?
  
  As a general rule, you are allowed to all adjustments which act on the whole picture and on exactly one picture (a.k.a. non selective editing).
  This includes:
  level,
  curves,
  hue,
  saturation,
  color adjustments/shifting,
  brightness,
  contrast,
  Gaussian blur,
  noise reduction,
  sharpness,
  Crop and rotate,
  Lens correction,
  Camera raw editing,
  Healing brush to remove dust and scratches from a scan or speckles from dust on your camera's sensor,
  Duplicated layers,
  Layer blending modes,
  
  What tools/alterations CAN'T I use?
  
  As a general rule, you should stay away from selecting, masking or brushing parts of the picture. Putting together a new picture from various other pictures such as HDR, stitching, collages, etc.) or reassembling pictures from parts of the same picture is also prohibited (unless the contest goal says it's allowed). Tools to avoid are:
  
  Brushes in any flavor
  Clonestamp
  Patch
  Masks and any selections (magic wand, marquee, lasso)
  Adding or moving objects manually
  Liquify/warp
  Vignettes, watermarks or frames and borders
  Sketchy effects or filters that alter the original photo significantly
  Copy/Paste
  
  Keep in mind that editing your photos should be kept minor. Too much editing can result in removal of your contest entry. This is a photography contest, not an image manipulation contest. In this sense, even "in camera editing" may be considered illegal by moderation.

People want a fair evaluation of their entries. Voting unfair will result in loss of votepower and can make your votes obsolete. In addition to that, moderators monitor your votes and can report suspicious vote behavior. This means that even if your votepower saldo is positive after a set of contests ends, you can still lose votepower if moderators decide that you vote very unfair on purpose on only a few entries. Good voting means voting fair ALL THE TIME. If you really don't know what to vote on an entry, simply don't vote at all on that entry. Also, a reported vote means the vote becomes INVALID and will not count in in the score calculation of an entry. Plus, you will lose a significant amount of votepower for each reported vote. To keep your vote reputation up, try to stick to these simple rules:

• If you really have no idea how to vote on a specific entry, it's best not to vote on that image.
• If you decide to red flag an entry, don't vote extremely low on it because your vote may be reported for the wrong reasons and you'll lose votepower.
• If you have family or friends in a contest, it's best not to vote on their entries.
• If someones askes you to vote on specific entries to increase his/her chances to win, don't vote on these entries or make up your own mind about them. 'friendly voting' is strongly discouraged.
• Don't tell anyone which entry is yours. This might influence this persons vote behavior.

When you comment on an entry, don't do anything on this list:

• DON'T mention the name of the author in your comment. Contests are anonymous and mentioning the authors name makes voting less fun and less accurate.
• DON'T personally attack anyone. (no flaming or bashing)
• DON'T offend anyone by making political or religious statements.
• DON'T make negative comments without suggestions for improvement. (eg. "THIS SUCKS", "WHAT A MESS", "LOW VOTE FROM ME", ...) The author will be discouraged by these comments can do absolutely nothing with them. There's nothing wrong with critique. But, it should come with a suggestion.
• DON'T talk about your favorite holiday destination in someones entry.
• DON'T start discussions in someones entry that are totally unrelated to the entry.
• DON'T ask someone for dinner in someones entry. Keep this private!
• (ADDED 11/2009) DON'T comment on 'administrative' issues of the entry (such as being off-topic for example), but raise a red flag instead.

It's simple, just be nice and write constructive comments. Comments such as "nice" and "great" will not be removed, but the author is probably expecting a little more. Violation of any of the items on this list can result in removal of your comment and all violations are logged.

The forum is a place to hang out, have fun and get to know other people. It's NOT a place to complain and insult others. Because forum discussions can get completely out of hand, here are some strict rules about posting on the forum:

• DON'T post personal attacks.
• DON'T complain about an entry that you think does not deserve that high or low spot. Although, this may be your opinion, the general public obviously thought differently about it.
• DON'T blame voters for the low score of your entry. You were probably expecting better results for your entry, but complaining about it won't change anything. Results are final.
• DON'T complain in public about any of the site rules, about the vote system or about someones vote behaviour. There is nothing wrong with posting a good suggestion and ask other opinions about it on the forums. But, complaining or whining won't help.
• If you are not sure, keep it private. Sending a complaint or suggestion to the administration has more effect than doing it on the forum.
• Read the FAQ and do a search on the forum first, before you ask a question. Many questions were already answered in an older thread or are explained on the FAQ page.
• If you post on the forum that you are leaving, your account will be banned automatically. Everyone has the right to leave this site if they're not happy. These guidelines are here to keep everyone happy. If you are not satisfied and you decide to leave the site, there's no reason to start a thread about. Afterall, you left the site, so you can't read the reactions anyway :)

Violation of these rules can result in removal of your account on the forum. If you break forum rules, but not the site rules, your forum account can be removed and your site account can remain active.

If you manage to get banned (which is hard if you follow all the simple guidelines!) and really, really, really want to be active again, the best thing to do is sending a mail to the administration and explain what went wrong. Maybe you will get a second chance! :) If you get banned, your IP will also be banned, so you can't make a new account. Don't try to make a new account on another computer, because you will be caught. Another thing that will result in an immediate ban is having several accounts to manipulate the contest results. All IP addresses and all vote behavior will be monitored, so we can keep everything fair and smooth! We don't like to ban people and it doesn't happen alot either. But sometimes, it's absolutely necessary. If someone keeps breaking the rules or simply annoys the hell out of everyone, he/she will get banned.

The more people who follow the rules and the more people we can satisfy, the higher the prizes we can give with each contest. PXLEyes is a place to have fun and to meet new people with the same interests!
So, if you follow all these simple guidelines, PXLEyes will stay fun and everyone will be happy! :))

Good luck!

As a moderator, you can look at all the red flags an entry receives. If the red flag is not obvious, then it comes with a reason most of the time. It's up to the moderator to decide if these red flag reasons are valid or not. Red flags should be used as an extra help when you are deciding if an entry needs to be removed or not. If an entry receives several red flags, but you think these red flags are not justified, you can decide to leave the entry in the contest.

As a moderator, you can remove entries from the contests. The entry will not be removed permanently, but will be taken out of the contest immediately. If after an administration review the entry appears to follow all the rules, the entry will be placed back in the contest. If after an administration review, the entry does not follow the rules, it will be removed permanently. Remove all entries from the contest that make big violations with the general and specific contest guidelines. Send a warning to the author first in case of small violations.

As a moderator, you can remove any comment that does not follow the commenting guidelines. Comments can be removed without warning.

As a moderator, you can send warnings to all users. Send a general warning to a user when he/she is not following the site rules. This can be anything from very small violations to big violations. The point is to warn the user so he/she knows what the problem is. If after the warning that person keeps making the same violations, you can report that user to the administration and explain the problem.

If an entry only has small violations which you think can be fixed easily by the author, you can send the author a specific warning about that entry. If you sent someone a warning message about an entry and at the end of the contest, the author did not fix the violations, you can remove it from the contest.

As a moderator, you can see all votes placed on the entries in the active contests. Voting is personal and subjective, but if you are seeing ridiculous votes like 1% on superb entries or 100% votes on terrible entries, you can report these votes. This reporting is not meant for reporting every single low or high vote. It's meant to report votes that make no sense.
For example:

• If you see a really high vote on a mediocre or bad entry and you suspect this vote to come from family or friend of the author: report it.
• If you see really low votes on all entries in a contest and only one high vote on one particular entry, then this is probably because this voter wants to manipulate the results in order to make a specific entry win: report the high vote and explain the details.

When you report a vote, the vote will be removed from the final score calculations and the user who placed the vote will instantly lose 50 votepower.

As a moderator, you can track someones vote behavior. When you can see all votes, you might notice strange things in someones vote behavior every once in a while.
Report this person if you suspect him/her doing one of the following things:

• User votes only high on entries from 1 particular author. This is 'friendly voting' and thus unfair and inaccurate.
• User votes extremely low on all entries. This is unfair and undeserved because it brings the final scores down.
• User votes extremely high on all entries. Maybe this person is trying to be santa or something, but it's not really accurate voting.
• User votes the same percentage on every single entry. Voting 50% on all entries for example is considered 'safe' because the chances to lose votepower are much lower this way. Always Voting between 60% and 65% is also considered 'safe', but should be reported too. Good voting behavior means having a large variety of different votes in a wide range.

Remember, even if you suspect someone with VOTEPOWER 0 has one of these strange vote behaviors: report it.
When you're in doubt if someones vote behavior should be reported or not: report it.
When someone breaks any of the site rules: report it.