Since a lot of the experienced taxidermists that frequent this forum also compete in taxidermist competitions, or have been judges, I'm wondering...what does a judge expect from a beginning or novice taxidermist as far as deer heads are concerned.
I suppose that someone just starting out won't be doing open mouth mounts or trying to preserve velvet antlers etc. But just how much do they expect out of someone just starting out.
I'm considering competing in the future, but it will be as a complete rookie.
I imagine I'll get lots of different answers to this question, and all responses are appreciated.
Return to Beginners Category Menu
Hi Bobbi, compitions are a great learning experence. Take in all the seminars, ask questions, look listen and learn. In the amateur level judges are more leanient in scoring. You are competing against a score sheet, not other mounts, so dont worry. A simple shoulder mount or what ever you like to is good to bring just to get some idea of were you stand and how to improve. Its a fun time...Paul
Bobbi,
I competed this year for the first time, but because I do it for money, I had to compete in the professional division. Anyway, I wasn't concerned with making my mount a competition-grade mount. Instead, I wanted to learn what I could do to make my commercial stuff the top of the line. Do your best work on a regular everyday commercial type mount and enter it. Be prepared to get dinged on a lot of stuff, that's part of the experience. But, be prepared to interact with the judge on a face to face critique and ask lots of questions as to why he or she judged you this or that way. Above all else, keep in mind that whatever they might offer as a score is only one person's experience. My mount was counted off on several points based upon the particular judges subjective perception of how a deer should or should not look. I had several experienced competitiors tell me that several of the items I lost points on should never have been considered, i.e., eye angle when you use the angkle of the form's eye setting and the judge doesn't like any forms but his own. I won't get into that because it's been hashed and rehashed time and again. But, overall, the competition experience is a good way to improve your skills overall and well worth the effort.
I ve been doing taxidermy for about five years.I just ent into the biss fulltime.Ive competed since I started and that question was my first concern.I certainly didnt want to be laughed out of the room.Ive learned that some poeple just have a natural ability with art.I do but when you look at your own work its sometimes hard to see the quaility.I still find myself asking poeple how my work looks.Starting in beginers or novice isnt something to be embarrest about.You have to start someplace.I know judges look at difficulty and artistic compisition.One thing i must say,ALWAYS get a critique.The judge will tell you what you lack or what your strong points are.Reguardless of where you enter, youll always gain knolegde.The good thing is if you were to enter in novice and kick but,next year your going into profsionals.Keep practiceing and get help poeple if you need it,dont be afraid to ask.Im sure anyone that looks and replies to these ads is decent.Good luck,Scott