I have an up coming competition and I have that you can leave a note to the judges ubout any special alterations you have done to your mount, is this true? If so does form alterations count and any special casting that was done such as septums, open mouth etc....... and are you aloud to leave refernce photos as well?
P.S. this competition stuff is all new to me.
Thanks in advance Jamie
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Yes, competitors do it all the time. Yes, it is good to let a judge see the extra effort. But remember, it still has to be done correctly. Leaving reference of a unique pose is Ok. But leaving reference of general anatomy can be costly. Most judges have plenty of reference of general anatomy. The problem comes when you miss some anatomy that was clear as day in your reference photos. Plus, you might insult the judge with very general reference. Be selective in what your leave for a judge. He or she might learn more than you really intended. Most entry forms have a place for alteration and original castings. Good Luck with your competiton.
About any alterations or castings.It will really help with your critique.
Leave any extra info you think you need with the check in. Some assoc. have a checklist of such items. Is the note an excuse? Think twice about entering that piece. Special poses can be discussed during your critique, that is between you and the judge, and generally something that will "open you up". An exception would be if it is a specie that is considered illegal to possess without such paperwork and in that case it needs to be official and your name should be temorarily covered to avoid any bias.
Good luck and I encourage you to enter, it is a great way to learn and improve. Check you ego at the door, listen to what is said and don't get caught up in any unprofessional and/or immature behavoir of others if present.