competing with "store bought" plants

Alot of competition s say if bases and habitat has a bearing on the score ,most times they do not ,unless you cover your work up with it.

 

I don't think the judges are examining if the plants are an exact match to native species or perfectly accurate plants, unless it's something really obvious. If you wanted them perfect, you'd have to make your own copying references. Some people do a better or worse job arranging the "store bought" plants and the plants themselves vary in quality so much! I like a nice habitat but I'm not a judge, lol. And I'd love to make my own fake plants but who has time for that?

 

I believe the habitat should complement the fish mount, but the judge should only judge the fish.

 

Exactly what JL said . It's best to keep it simple,natural looking and make it flow from my experience.
Tommy

 

Just judging the subject sounds all good and well until there is serious competition in the room.... It works in most cases at the professional level, and in some state shows. But at the higher levels, Master divisions at certain state shows, Regionals, Nationals and the World level it simple doesn't get it done. If there are two or more first place mounts ( and there usually is ) within a point or so of each other, or even tied in some cases, best of category or best of show will come down to the habitat or "display" to settle the difference. Those who do as much "original" art as they possibly can "accurately" in the total piece have a better chance of winning. As they should.. Half measures are measured as such when along side full measures.... I say "compete like you mean it"!