NOTE: Lara and I do not judge, so this is just my observations from listening to judges and watching how it goes....

1. In the end, remember it's a photography contest.

2. Beware what can be seen from a photo. For example, you might be taken by surprise when you learn that a foodie can SEE overwhipped whipped cream in a photo (who knew??? It happened to me the first year when Lara and I were in the contest....) And a contestent has been 'called' on unhulled strawberries (apparently not as good to eat? although it was picturesque....)

3. Descriptions help --- You can't see flavor, but when we can pass on to the judges that 'the icing has white chocolate chips embedded in it,' the entry sounds all the more tantalizing and delicious.

4. Some folks cut into their cake (after all outside photos taken) and damn if there aren't some good things happening on the inside!!! Yes, we pass on more than just the outside picture, if you have it and you think it will help.



This was Marisue's entry last year -- DUDE the girl had a flag ON THE INSIDE! It was AMAZING!!!!

5. There are no rules. The only "rule" is that it has to be food...or edible.... This has been a tough one since it gives no guidance....but we have thought about it, and we can't come up with any that make any sense for the fun here : ) But if you have a suggestion....we are always looking to improve the Smackdown!!!

What have I left out?

Questions? Comments? Always welcome!