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Elephant Graveyard
Discussion Board -> Elephant Graveyard -> Contest or Scam?? Scam!.
Contest or Scam?? Scam!.
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Post a Comment - Subscribe to this discussionOverflow mode, hiding 48 messages. [View]
if you are happy .. we are happy for you .. life needs more happy in it
from this day forward I vow to be happy .. until something upsets me
from this day forward I vow to be happy .. until something upsets me
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*---===>>>>>(¯`·._(¯`·._.: It ain't over till the FAT BABY sings :._.·´¯)_.·´¯)<<<<<===---*
The photo contest is the same as the poetry one that they run too.. the poetry contest was even sent out to schools over here a couple of years ago, so the kids could "enter" the competition, my son entered along with every other kid in the school.. each one got the same letter saying they had "won" and that they would be published, also to buy the book with their "winning" poem in it and invited to go over to where ever it is to receive the "trophy" etc.. the kids were devastated when the parents realised it was a scam.. I'm not saying that you won't get the book you probably will, but the whole ethics of the so called contest is wrong, its devastating for some people and its just a way for them to make money...
Keifer I know what upsets you... *whispers... brown moths and cane toads.... LMAO...
Keifer I know what upsets you... *whispers... brown moths and cane toads.... LMAO...
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MY GALLERY
........... "Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece"
as Keith said - if you have gone into it 'eyes open' then thats all fine. the point here is that they target people - even children - implying that it is a contest and that their work has been selected over many other entries for publication and a prize when the reality is that they haven't and anyone willing to cough up the required amount of cash will 'win'. they use many very questionable marketing techniques - the worst that springs to mind being mailing parents of entrants rambling on about securing the financial security of their children by having (the incredibly remote) possibility of winning 10 grand or 6.5 as it is now. you only have to look at their site at some of the winning entries in contests. granted many are good - most are little more than snapshots. I believe the terminology for this is a 'vanity' contest and personally If I wanted to see my stuff in print - I'd just use someone like Lulu.com and have a book made up of my stuff that I had full control over the look of and my images appeared at sizes larger than a hefty postage stamp.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
So when do the kids realize it is a scam? Is that when the parents get upset and tell them? I'm not trying to upset anyone or be smart. It's just all in the way that you look at it I guess. I actually entered a poetry contest when I was a kid a long time ago. I printed up my poem myself but didn't purchase the book. I was able to tell people if I chose to that I had been published. I guess I was smarter then than I am now. :)
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Well you do what you feel best... to me as a parent who IS responsible for MY child, yes I broke the news to my child as did every other mother at that school... when you see that EVERY kid received the EXACT same letter.. its warning bells.. I find it unethical..... but thats just me... case closed.. or I should say close the book..
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MY GALLERY
........... "Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece"
Caedes.net prints a calendar at the end of the year .. although we missed last year
we submit photos to be considered for inclusion .. images are selected and the calendars are printed (the last time it was 6 or 8 different calendars .. for one year)
I'm not sure if anybody here thought of it as "being published" .. (though, I could be wrong) .. but, it is just as "published" as the book you are willing to buy ... the only real difference is that caedes.net does it in as non-profit a way as they can .. it's not always about the benjamins .. its about a supportive service made available to members
why, some members were even willing to pay exorbitant VAT taxes to receive them .. and were forced to wear them as t-shirts, to justify the cost .. (*cough*)
don't let anything we say convince you that we are anything but happy for you .. we are just natural-born skeptics, cynics, and lay-abouts
and if you would like to submit photos here .. we'd be happy to have you ... won't cost you a cent
we submit photos to be considered for inclusion .. images are selected and the calendars are printed (the last time it was 6 or 8 different calendars .. for one year)
I'm not sure if anybody here thought of it as "being published" .. (though, I could be wrong) .. but, it is just as "published" as the book you are willing to buy ... the only real difference is that caedes.net does it in as non-profit a way as they can .. it's not always about the benjamins .. its about a supportive service made available to members
why, some members were even willing to pay exorbitant VAT taxes to receive them .. and were forced to wear them as t-shirts, to justify the cost .. (*cough*)
don't let anything we say convince you that we are anything but happy for you .. we are just natural-born skeptics, cynics, and lay-abouts
and if you would like to submit photos here .. we'd be happy to have you ... won't cost you a cent
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*---===>>>>>(¯`·._(¯`·._.: It ain't over till the FAT BABY sings :._.·´¯)_.·´¯)<<<<<===---*
we are indeed natural born skeptics but it's not just us - do a quick search on the net and see the legions of winners/losers still waiting for their 'prizes' to be delivered years later. As Keith said - feel free to post your work and enter our occasional contests - they are completely free to enter and you will - hopefully - get valuable feedback on your work. just don't post the image you sent to picture.com because that isn't yours anymore and we couldn't allow it under the sites copyright restrictions.
it's worth noting for anyone interested in the 'vanity contest' aspect of getting your work in print, for the equivalent cost of going to a picture.com prize event, about $2000 (travel, hotel, guest, book, prize, membership, convention etc etc) to pick up your $25 spittoon, you and 3 of your mates could have 3 nights in the Bellagio and have 50 copies of your own book published instead through a self publish shop. worth considering if thats what floats your boat.
it's worth noting for anyone interested in the 'vanity contest' aspect of getting your work in print, for the equivalent cost of going to a picture.com prize event, about $2000 (travel, hotel, guest, book, prize, membership, convention etc etc) to pick up your $25 spittoon, you and 3 of your mates could have 3 nights in the Bellagio and have 50 copies of your own book published instead through a self publish shop. worth considering if thats what floats your boat.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
i got this same email! I was excited at first, but then I read the rest and wondered the same thing...
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thank you thredies for letting others out here know whats going on with this email/contest b.s. -glad to still have my $70
-ciao
-ciao
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I had gotten the same email, and was very excited and then I thought mmmm this maybe a scam so I tried to email them and it said that the address I was trying to contact had an error and weren't able to recieve emails and such, so then I tried to call that little number they have on their website and of course there was never an answer . So sadly I do think that this is a scam which kind of makes me upset just because how big of an honor it would be to have your work in an art book and such.
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I got the same email but then i got another one two weeks later saying i was a member of the month out of 50 other members and i was still a finalist for a $5000 grand prize when the prize was $6500 in the first email. Did anyone else get an email like this. Keep in mind I have not paid for anything yet. heres a copy of it...
Photo laureates™photolaureates
jessi-Photograph member of the month
Dear jessi,
My name is Sol at Photo laureates and I am happy to let you know that you have been selected as one of 50 members of the month for August 2007
I invite you to please click here to fill up your member of the month Q&A form and let the community know who you are. Please note that your contact information will be kept strictly confidential, for your privacy.
As a contest finalist and for a limited time, enjoy the manuscript for only $59 (regular price is $69).
Click here to take advantage of this great offer now as we are finalizing orders. You can view sample selected pictures of fellow finalists by clicking here.
All finalists qualify for the $5000 grand prize. As a non sponsored organization, we greatly appreciate the support of finalists with the manuscripts. Paying members will receive an invitation to the Global Photography conference, in addition to their high quality manuscript.
Our own manuscripts are 9 1/2" X 11 and are made of high quality, bounded paper with a 12 point high quality laminated cover. Manuscripts have over 300 pages of leading photographs and professional illustrations as well as several sections of photography techniques written by leading experts. They make terrific coffee table books and great gifts to friends and family! Of course, your work will be published in this manuscript along with your name.
cover of the manuscript --- Great nature cover of the manuscript --- Classic cover of the manuscript --- Great Nature
Sample cover designs, actual covers renewed every year.
We create an account for you. Please access here with
firstname:jessi
email:jessigirlforever@aim.com
You can also have your biography printed in the book to highlight your work or your experience.
Finally, of Photography lets you commemorate the publication of your photograph with a certificate in your name printed on a walnut-finished plaque. The plaque measures 10 1/2" X 13".
The plaque will include your name and your photograph:
cover of the manuscript --- Classic
These are sample photographs selected in the 2007 edition of our manuscript:
Orders are only available until Aug-13-2007 (or until stocks expire). The next contest will only be in 2008. To receive a copy (copies) before reserves run out, please click here now.
Note, to order, you can also cut and paste this link in your browser:
http://www.photolaureates.org/payment/shopping_cart.php?ContestPhotoID=101395
If you do not have a credit card, please mail your check or money order as soon as possible to:
Photo Laureates
925 de Maisonneuve West
PO-BOX 304
Montreal, Quebec, H3A OA4
CANADA
All $ are US $. Please add US $8 (or US $18 for international) to the amount of the book for shipping. Else the book will not be shipped.
For help, support, and enquiry, please feel free to contact us at help@photolaureates.org
UNSUBSCRIBE: click here not to receive any email from us.
Please note that due to high demand and limited supplies, manuscripts are available on a first come, first served basis.
Refer 5 friends and win $500! One winner every 2 weeks!
The Photolaureates team
Photo laureates™photolaureates
jessi-Photograph member of the month
Dear jessi,
My name is Sol at Photo laureates and I am happy to let you know that you have been selected as one of 50 members of the month for August 2007
I invite you to please click here to fill up your member of the month Q&A form and let the community know who you are. Please note that your contact information will be kept strictly confidential, for your privacy.
As a contest finalist and for a limited time, enjoy the manuscript for only $59 (regular price is $69).
Click here to take advantage of this great offer now as we are finalizing orders. You can view sample selected pictures of fellow finalists by clicking here.
All finalists qualify for the $5000 grand prize. As a non sponsored organization, we greatly appreciate the support of finalists with the manuscripts. Paying members will receive an invitation to the Global Photography conference, in addition to their high quality manuscript.
Our own manuscripts are 9 1/2" X 11 and are made of high quality, bounded paper with a 12 point high quality laminated cover. Manuscripts have over 300 pages of leading photographs and professional illustrations as well as several sections of photography techniques written by leading experts. They make terrific coffee table books and great gifts to friends and family! Of course, your work will be published in this manuscript along with your name.
cover of the manuscript --- Great nature cover of the manuscript --- Classic cover of the manuscript --- Great Nature
Sample cover designs, actual covers renewed every year.
We create an account for you. Please access here with
firstname:jessi
email:jessigirlforever@aim.com
You can also have your biography printed in the book to highlight your work or your experience.
Finally, of Photography lets you commemorate the publication of your photograph with a certificate in your name printed on a walnut-finished plaque. The plaque measures 10 1/2" X 13".
The plaque will include your name and your photograph:
cover of the manuscript --- Classic
These are sample photographs selected in the 2007 edition of our manuscript:
Orders are only available until Aug-13-2007 (or until stocks expire). The next contest will only be in 2008. To receive a copy (copies) before reserves run out, please click here now.
Note, to order, you can also cut and paste this link in your browser:
http://www.photolaureates.org/payment/shopping_cart.php?ContestPhotoID=101395
If you do not have a credit card, please mail your check or money order as soon as possible to:
Photo Laureates
925 de Maisonneuve West
PO-BOX 304
Montreal, Quebec, H3A OA4
CANADA
All $ are US $. Please add US $8 (or US $18 for international) to the amount of the book for shipping. Else the book will not be shipped.
For help, support, and enquiry, please feel free to contact us at help@photolaureates.org
UNSUBSCRIBE: click here not to receive any email from us.
Please note that due to high demand and limited supplies, manuscripts are available on a first come, first served basis.
Refer 5 friends and win $500! One winner every 2 weeks!
The Photolaureates team
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"Refer 5 friends and win $500! One winner every 2 weeks!"
That pretty much says it all for me. This is basically a spam business, not a "contest"...
That pretty much says it all for me. This is basically a spam business, not a "contest"...
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-Everyone is entitled to my opinion- rescope.com.au
That and the grammar issues throughout that…
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One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
i'm guessing they aren't allowed to call the $70 pamphlet a book any more hence it's rebirth as a cheaper 'manuscript'
'Finally, of Photography lets you commemorate the publication of your photograph with a certificate in your name printed on a walnut-finished plaque. The plaque measures 10 1/2" X 13". '
they forget to mention also how much this plaque will cost too - if its anything like the spittoon or the medal, it will be at least six times the cost of producing it.
'Finally, of Photography lets you commemorate the publication of your photograph with a certificate in your name printed on a walnut-finished plaque. The plaque measures 10 1/2" X 13". '
they forget to mention also how much this plaque will cost too - if its anything like the spittoon or the medal, it will be at least six times the cost of producing it.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
how do you say: .. Laughing all the way to the bank .. in French Canadian?
Le Chuckle Avec Vous CA$H Tout La Banque
Le Chuckle Avec Vous CA$H Tout La Banque
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Definitely crapola! I received this low grade, poorly laid out manuscript that appeared to be more of a photo album with random pictures, all the same size printed on low quality paper that resembled a homemade catalogue produced by prisoners in China.
The layout, if you want to call it that, could have been done better by a primate while eating a banana. Please avoid embarrassment by not putting it on your coffee table; mine lies in the attic slowly rotting away. I'd be ashamed to display this amateurish, kinko-style mish mash of poorly conceived photos, with some exceptions, that don't even deserve to be displayed in a Turkish, countryside toilet.
The layout, if you want to call it that, could have been done better by a primate while eating a banana. Please avoid embarrassment by not putting it on your coffee table; mine lies in the attic slowly rotting away. I'd be ashamed to display this amateurish, kinko-style mish mash of poorly conceived photos, with some exceptions, that don't even deserve to be displayed in a Turkish, countryside toilet.
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the .. (*drum roll*) .. 'manuscript'
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.•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•..•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•..•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•._.•*''*•.
the upper left photo speaks volumes about the care and consideration that goes into their judging process in the 'contest'. ive seen better put together stock photo albums. what a joke.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
I received via an email from help@photolaureates.org "Photography Newsletter August 8th 2007". Lo & behold in the top right hand corner of the "newsletter" was a photo I had submitted for a contest conducted by "Circle of Photography" about two years ago. So, I Googled Photo Laureates and came upon this forum. The response people are receiving when submitting a photo is the same as I received when I sent my photo to Circle of Photography. Needless to say, I did not "fall" for the gimmick of sending any money so I could see my "winning" entry in a book. I had Googled "Circle of Photography" and got the same feeling as what is being conveyed in this forum. It is obvious to me these two scams are related.
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all of the following organisations are the same company/scam:
International Library of Photography (ILP)
Picture.com
ephotograph.com
The International Library of Poetry
International Poetry Hall of Fame
International Society of Poets
Photography Laureates
National Library of Poetry
Poetry.com
International Poetry Hall of Fame
Watermark Press
Birthwrites
International Lib
Pegasus Press
International Society of Photography
Arts and Kids
International Library of Photography (ILP)
Picture.com
ephotograph.com
The International Library of Poetry
International Poetry Hall of Fame
International Society of Poets
Photography Laureates
National Library of Poetry
Poetry.com
International Poetry Hall of Fame
Watermark Press
Birthwrites
International Lib
Pegasus Press
International Society of Photography
Arts and Kids
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
I got an email from a friend who was so proud of the fact that she's one of the finalists in Photo Laureates' contest. She also enclosed a copy of her "winning" picture and a copy of the email from Photo Laureates to her. My BS meter started buzzing, though, when I saw the $59 book she's supposed to be pay to get.
I have to agree that the "contest" is probably not illegal, but it sure is unethical. You make everyone think he is a finalist and get him to pay for the privilege. I personally wouldn't want to be a part of that (it's delusional), but how do you tell a friend who is very excited about having her picture "chosen?"
I have to agree that the "contest" is probably not illegal, but it sure is unethical. You make everyone think he is a finalist and get him to pay for the privilege. I personally wouldn't want to be a part of that (it's delusional), but how do you tell a friend who is very excited about having her picture "chosen?"
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Tell her you're so very sorry, and you absolutely hate having to tell her this, but as a friend, you don't want her to spend the money just to be disappointed later and discover what she's paid for is not what she thinks she's getting. Send her a few links to threads like these as evidence.
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One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
Show her this thread.. that will open her eyes.. ;)
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MY GALLERY
........... "Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece"
Alright, this is my last post. I said I'd check back when I got my book. After reading all the angry posts about this "scam" contest, I started to doubt the purchase of the book. I sent an email requesting a status of the book and once again got a 'cookie cutter' response. Slightly angered, I emailed once again and didn't get a good answer again but noticed a message about a refund for the book. Hmmm.... a refund? Even though I still wanted the book, these posts had made me doubtful about the whole purchase. I was too curious to pass the opportunity by to find out if I could actually get a refund. Well, I did request a refund and to my surprise, got an email confirmation a few days later that I was granted a refund. I checked my credit card statement and sure enough, received a credit for the first third of the price of the book. (I remembered I paid for it in two payments for some reason.) I thought, well, I better get the rest of the purchase price!! Then, a few days later, what did I recieve in the mail? My photography manuscript. Huh!!
Now, I do agree, that some photos are just bad... and the layout isn't all that great. It would be nice to be able to browse the pages without turning the book all around. But... I really like the book!! How cool is it to get a bunch of pictures from random people all around the country? Some of the pictures are really very beautiful!! They should include some print ordering pages at the back of the book! I would order some of those prints!
This contest just shouldn't be taken too seriously. Just like the junk mail you get that says 'You are a million dollar winner!!'
Overall, I am happy with the purchase. I'm sorry for those of you that had your feelings hurt... but it's part of life. :)
Now, I do agree, that some photos are just bad... and the layout isn't all that great. It would be nice to be able to browse the pages without turning the book all around. But... I really like the book!! How cool is it to get a bunch of pictures from random people all around the country? Some of the pictures are really very beautiful!! They should include some print ordering pages at the back of the book! I would order some of those prints!
This contest just shouldn't be taken too seriously. Just like the junk mail you get that says 'You are a million dollar winner!!'
Overall, I am happy with the purchase. I'm sorry for those of you that had your feelings hurt... but it's part of life. :)
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thank you for your feedback
at the risk of repeating myself .. You Could post here, we'd be happy to have you
at the risk of repeating myself .. You Could post here, we'd be happy to have you
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‘They should include some print ordering pages at the back of the book! I would order some of those prints!’
It would be pointless ordering any prints as that would just exacerbate the shafting the original artist gets – the images they produce are already moved into stock libraries to make money for picture.com of which the artist receives no royalties at all. Once you enter a picture there it isn’t yours anymore.
‘This contest just shouldn't be taken too seriously. Just like the junk mail you get that says 'You are a million dollar winner!!'
That would be fine if they didn’t habitually target children, schools and the financially insecure. People fall for the junk mail scams too – this is no different. If you want cool pictures in a book, publish your own stuff with someone like lulu.com, it’s cheaper, better quality and you have complete control of what you want to see in it. Or if you just want other people to appreciate your work – do as Keith suggested and post it here – it’s even cheaper, i.e. free.
It would be pointless ordering any prints as that would just exacerbate the shafting the original artist gets – the images they produce are already moved into stock libraries to make money for picture.com of which the artist receives no royalties at all. Once you enter a picture there it isn’t yours anymore.
‘This contest just shouldn't be taken too seriously. Just like the junk mail you get that says 'You are a million dollar winner!!'
That would be fine if they didn’t habitually target children, schools and the financially insecure. People fall for the junk mail scams too – this is no different. If you want cool pictures in a book, publish your own stuff with someone like lulu.com, it’s cheaper, better quality and you have complete control of what you want to see in it. Or if you just want other people to appreciate your work – do as Keith suggested and post it here – it’s even cheaper, i.e. free.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Okay, I entered and got all the same stuff everyone else on this thread has recieved. Like many, I too was tantalized by the idea of having my work 'chosen' and 'published,' but resisted the voice of my ego calling to me to play. How about a list of legitamate contests out there? Are there any? I havent' been able to find any online contests that don't involve giving somebody money and/or giving away my copyrights for submissions........
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This is a forum section for contests specifically. Be aware though that many of the more high profile ones require an entry fee but are at least legitimate judged contests rather than a pamphlet accompanied version of photobucket. Members are free to post any contests in that forum that they feel others will be interested in. most of the contests there are annuals too so even if they are not reposted they will still most likely be running again.
Occasionally contests are run here too for members.
Occasionally contests are run here too for members.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Reminds me of the poetry one from poetry.com. You get your poem published with 100's of others in a craptastically ugly book that costs way too much money. I'm sorry to say I fell for it when I was younger. Lost the book in a fire. Good riddance.
I've had some of my poetry published in real magazines since and even got paid a little bit for some of it. Obviously, not enough to quit my day job.
I've had some of my poetry published in real magazines since and even got paid a little bit for some of it. Obviously, not enough to quit my day job.
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Imagination is more important than knowledge. -- Albert Einstein
It's the same company. scroll up a bit - there is a full list of all the offshoot scams of the same organisation.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
This is definitely a scam. I know because they got me, but for the information of other scamees this is what I did about it. After several attempts to contact them and receiving automated replies, I threatened to report them to the Fair Trading Authority in my country (Australia) and guess what............the money was credited to my bank account within days.
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Good job!
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One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
so? ... the beer is on YOU, then?
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Feeling really stupid now. I have to admit that I was uber excited to receive the well known email. Thank you all for saving me $69.
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Its got to be a scam. I sent a photo into photo.com and it just so happened that that other website contacted me wanting money for the same picture i sent into photo.com. Same kind of crappy "manuscript" coffee table book.
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Many thanks for the heads-up. It seemed a little too quick to be in the finalist group. There is no doubt that I just got trolled by a form letter.
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I got the same email. I was new to the photography scene at the time and thought i was hot stuff because I won. It was such an accomplishment or so I thought. I keep reading about this and thought I would share my experience. They say they dont print the same pic in other books well. I won in 2005 and I found out today that I won this year too...with the same picture. Glad im broke and didnt buy the book I would have been crushed. Oh and you cant find the book anywhere else. I was gonna seee if I could find the book used no such luck. If anyone else found the "manuscript" used let me know.
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it does get an ISBN number to be classed as a book but is only printed on demand so you will NEVER find it for sale in a retail outlet anywhere unless its a second hand bookshop somewhere or you order it for some reason.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Yeah, I've never seen the Poetry.com books anywhere else.
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Imagination is more important than knowledge. -- Albert Einstein
I have received the same email. WORD FOR WORD. Except my photo isnt of a phone booth.
I have learned to stick with photo contests that are actually sponsored. Either by a camera company or a major company, like Gerber. Man..I was so happy when I got the email. Thank goodness I have photographer friends.
I have learned to stick with photo contests that are actually sponsored. Either by a camera company or a major company, like Gerber. Man..I was so happy when I got the email. Thank goodness I have photographer friends.
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I just bought the stupid thing. I'm trying to get it cancelled. My major is Photography so I thought it would be neat to enter this. I hope I can get it cancelled. :(
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I got the same thing too. The deadline to purchase the anthology was 4 days after I got the e-mail. It seems like they give you no time to decide on the purchase of the anthology so you will jump on it without the real chance of thinking it through.
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hey guys like you i entered the photo lauriets competition 07 and also got alot of feed back from them. " you are a finalist for the $6500 prize draw " you no . i must say that now hearing aout this scam buisness im glad i didnt send any money to them but they sent me a photo mission they called it to take a photo of a x mas tree and all the rest of it just seeing if any other news has come up of this scam.
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i see the domain for photolaureates has been SUSPENDED, i think that tells it all. i too fell for the whole "you're picture was chosen" spiel, the problem is , it WAS a good picture. i did order the plaque with my picture on it as it was my grand-daughter and i wanted the plaque for her to have when she got older. now i'm not only out my money, i'm very angry that these people scammed everyone who had a good picture too.
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that is good news about the suspension - just need picture.com and all the other associated scams to go the same way asap now.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Picture.com now has an hourly contest. I think I have a pic of a dog's rear end laying around somewhere.. Sure to be an instant classic there.
*runs off*
*runs off*
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Please, even if you don't visit my gallery, check out my "Faves".I've left them intact since day "1", and would like it if every image there got the attention they deserved.
Wow, what a letdown. Thanks for posting all of this, because I was about to shell out $60 (or more) for the privilege of having my photo published. I'm glad I listened to my gut and did some checking up on photo laureates. It is really a shame that there are people out there who will so readily play with others' emotions and dreams.
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well then, glad I got some thoughts about this, cause I too got the winning email...was nice for a sec to have won but I am over it!!
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I find it fascinating that none of the 'contest winners' posting to this thread ever .. EVER .. think:
Hey! this looks like a cool site involving pixels .. sure, they want wallpaper\desktop oriented pixels .. maybe I could step up, reach higher, grab that brass ring, and post some pixels here too ... after all, getting pushed is not such a bad thing, unless it's towards a cliff, and even then, if there's a Carribean style Resort Pool below the cliff, and the height isn't THAT far .. then getting pushed off a cliff is not such a bad thing either .. who knew? ... I could relax my resistance, my fear of heights and allow my self to be pushed ... soon I shall be cool, in the pool, with my pixels re-tooled
just a thought
Hey! this looks like a cool site involving pixels .. sure, they want wallpaper\desktop oriented pixels .. maybe I could step up, reach higher, grab that brass ring, and post some pixels here too ... after all, getting pushed is not such a bad thing, unless it's towards a cliff, and even then, if there's a Carribean style Resort Pool below the cliff, and the height isn't THAT far .. then getting pushed off a cliff is not such a bad thing either .. who knew? ... I could relax my resistance, my fear of heights and allow my self to be pushed ... soon I shall be cool, in the pool, with my pixels re-tooled
just a thought
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˜”*°•.•°*”˜˜”*°•@•°*”˜˜”*°•.•°*”˜˜”*°•.•°*”˜˜”*°•@•°*”˜˜”*°•.•°*”˜˜”*°•.•°*”˜˜”*°•@•°*”˜˜”*°•.•°*”˜
I ordered their book with my photo in it. The first address they had on their form was wrong and my letter with my check for the book was returned. I contacted them and they said they had moved and gave me their new address. I mailed out a new check November 25th, 2007 and they claim I didn't order their book. Either they are holding onto the check for some unknown reason or they gave me another wrong address. As of yet I don't know where my letter with my check is. It's a $20.charge to put a stop on the check. As far as I'm concerned I am already out the $56.+ check and don't want to add another $20. to my losses not knowing where the check is.
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There page has not been suspended because i feel for it heck at least somebody has my picture on their coffee table. And its not really too much of a scam because they did publish it. i don't know about anything else though.
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they havent published it. regardless of them quoting ISBN numbers - every single book retailer I have tried - you cannot order their 'books' from anyone else but them - they are printed to order - so you could do it yourself - cheaper - via someone like lulu and not have reams of dross from other 'winners' surrounding it in thumbnail sized images.
and yes - sadly - there page is back up again although it was offline for non payment for a while. AVOID ALL OF THIS COMPANIES SCAMS UNDER ITS MANY GUISES AT ALL COSTS!
and yes - sadly - there page is back up again although it was offline for non payment for a while. AVOID ALL OF THIS COMPANIES SCAMS UNDER ITS MANY GUISES AT ALL COSTS!
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
The funny thing is that it's such a perfect scam that they could probably still make money if they actually did all the things they say they do. I mean i'd probably be willing to pay to see my best pic published with some of the other awesome amature shots out there. maybe someone should do this for real.
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Isn't it funny how this thread has 14 members on here since November (there are a lot more before that but I couldn't be bothered counting.. lol) who have only registered and commented on here then disappeared..
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MY GALLERY
........... "Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece"
Everything about photolaureates.com (or .org) was suspect to me, and caused me to spend more time looking into it than I would of legit sites. What I wanted to note, was that on one of their contest pages, they stated that all payments would go through "WorldPay". I did a VERY brief search before I posted this, but the first hit on Scam.com said it's an absolute scam.
Doesn't surprise me, and I had, and still have, a feeling that 'photolaureates' is far more criminal than they seem.
Doesn't surprise me, and I had, and still have, a feeling that 'photolaureates' is far more criminal than they seem.
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here's the page about Worldpay:
http://www.thephotochallenge.com/Presentation-Boundary/PrivacyPolicyPage.php
When You Pay
The Photo Challenge adopts WorldPay to facilitate all money transactions. If you choose to become a member, buy credits, and purchase photo, you will be directed to the website of WorldPay where you process your payment. The Photo Challenge needs only the notification from WorldPay indicating the state of your payment, so we do not store your private financial information. *[The only thing that we need to acquire from you is your Account Number when some users buy your photos.]* Every time we will send you email informing you to send us your account. Upon receiving your account number, the money belong to you will be placed into your account, and we do not store your account number.
Oh, I almost forgot: one big giveaway to me was that I kept hitting pages that said I needed to load 'language', which was 'CHINESE, SIMPLIFIED'.... I cancelled the language, and it loaded fine, but that looked like a 'red flag' to me, too!
http://www.thephotochallenge.com/Presentation-Boundary/PrivacyPolicyPage.php
When You Pay
The Photo Challenge adopts WorldPay to facilitate all money transactions. If you choose to become a member, buy credits, and purchase photo, you will be directed to the website of WorldPay where you process your payment. The Photo Challenge needs only the notification from WorldPay indicating the state of your payment, so we do not store your private financial information. *[The only thing that we need to acquire from you is your Account Number when some users buy your photos.]* Every time we will send you email informing you to send us your account. Upon receiving your account number, the money belong to you will be placed into your account, and we do not store your account number.
Oh, I almost forgot: one big giveaway to me was that I kept hitting pages that said I needed to load 'language', which was 'CHINESE, SIMPLIFIED'.... I cancelled the language, and it loaded fine, but that looked like a 'red flag' to me, too!
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MY GALLERY
........... "Live one day at a time and make it a masterpiece"
Found this today.....Hmmmm,your thoughts?
Photo Laureates Released this Corporate Statement on Defamatory Statements Issued by Competitors
Montreal, Canada (PRWEB via PRWebDirect) May 16, 2006 –- Photography Laureates (www.photolaureates.org) hereby communicates a rebuttal to unethical activity observed on some Internet forums.
--- CORPORATE STATEMENT ---
Please note that it is the corporate practice of some competitors and/or professional photographers to issue defamatory statements about Photography Laureates in Internet forums in an attempt to harm our reputation as a leading publisher and community site catering to amateur and professional photographers. These competitors simply post defamatory comments on photo laureates (www.photolaureates.org) in forums under fictitious names and address fictitious issues -- but with the same internet IP address. These claims indicate that our editors do not review photographs, associate us to non reputable companies or allege that we do not ship our manuscripts.
Photography laureates does not engage in these unethical and malign practices. No serious company ought. We would just hope that these local competitors focused on caring for their associate photographers as opposed to blackmailing Photography Laureates.
We have also noted that some professional photographers believe that only they should ever be considered for publication with amateur photographers having no place on any publication and not deserving any exposure
We disagree. Talent is everywhere and amateur photographers can teach a lesson or two to even the most professional photographers out there. Photographs are highly individual means of expression and sensibility – traits independent of technical proficiency. Diversity is a source of creation. We, at Photo laureates, embrace diversity.
The mission of photo laureates is to provide a platform of artistic expression to the amateur photography community.
Photography Laureates’ track record speaks for itself with a 98% satisfaction rate and general success in our mission to provide a platform of artistic expression for amateur and professional photographers to gain exposure and recognition. We promote photography and photographers through technical workshops and improvisation sessions.
The manuscripts of photo laureates are distributed internationally. Photographers retain all rights to their photographs. Photography laureates now has more than 35,000 happy members.
--- MISSION AND VALUES ---
Photography Laureates values are shared, as a team, from senior management to provide a leading platform of artistic expression to amateur and professional photographers.
The mission of photo laureates is to get talent known out there. Our professional editors and infrastructure have that sole purpose in mind. Photography Laureates grows through referrals and hence is built to exceed expectations.
--- #1 Our first priority is the satisfaction of our associate photographers ---
1.1 The two senior photography editors of photo laureates, Kyrta Reeve and John Warton, carefully evaluate photographs based on the following criteria: technical quality, composition, flow, texture and light. They recognize that each photograph is a unique piece. All rejected photographs will be clearly documented for the artist to understand and improve his or her submission. Kyrta Reeve and John Warton may also refer the most talented amateurs to prominent publishers (under the photographers’ full copyrights)
1.2 All of us here at Photo Laureates work to craft very high quality products (manuscripts, plaques…) featuring selected photographs. All products are engineered and designed to provide great support for photographers to showcase their work for years to come to friends & family and on their coffee table
1.3 We provide superior customer service and get back to clients within 8 hours on all their questions. Our team also provides full support to all photographers considered for publication by our senior editors.
--- #2 Our mission is also to create a vibrant platform of self expression---
2.1 The mission of photography laureates is to provide a platform or artistic expression and to let the most talented amateur photographers promote their work, network and gain general exposure. Editors refer talented amateur photographers to other prominent photography publishers.
2.2 Photography laureates and its web site www.photolaureates.org is an organization whose main purpose is to create a platform of artistic self expression and to promote the passion of photography.
--- #3 We only work with leading senior professionals ---
3.1 Nothing beats experience. The editors at photo laureates are senior professionals with decades of experience. They are members of international photography associations
3.2 Photo laureates editors treat each photographer as a unique individual and provide feedback on their work
--- #4 We follow through and guarantee satisfaction ---
4.1 Photography Laureates is a North American incorporated entity and has compliance requirements. We only take 35% upfront deposits on our orders as manuscripts take a while to get manufactured (being works in progress as editors need to select entries and then orchestrate the entire design and production). This is done in order to reassure our associate photographers
4.2 We stand behind our offer and will refund our associate photographers if they are not satisfied with their manuscripts.
Photography Laureates offers the following:
* A unique platform of self expression to the amateur and professional photographer
* An opportunity to be published as part of a leading photography manuscript
* 24/7 customer care assistance to help associate photographers network
* Review and pieces of advise from the editors on submitted entries
* A leading membership community where members can exchange and learn with other peers and experts
About Photography Laureates
The mission of Photo laureates is to provide a platform of artistic expression for amateur and professional photographers to gain exposure and recognition. We promote photography and photographers through technical workshops, improvisation sessions.
An independent panel of experts at photo laureates reviews photographs based on the following criteria: technical quality, composition, flow, texture and light.
Photography laureates’ manuscripts are distributed internationally. Photographers retain all rights to their photographs. We have more than 30,000 members and a 98% satisfaction rate.
For more information about Photography Laureates, please visit: http://www.photolaureates.com.
Contact:
Sol – Customer Care Manager
Photo laureates
www.photolaureates.org
# # #
John Warton at Photo Laureates Discusses Judging Amateur Photography 2006-05-17
9 Critical Points to Consider When Making a Photograph -- by John Warton at Photo Laureates 2006-06-01
Tips for Great Nature Photographs -- By John Warton at Photography Laureates 2006-07-18
So You Want to Become a Better Photographer? John Warton of Photography Laureates Provides Five Tips 2006-07-17
Five Most Common Photography Mistakes and Tips for Improvement -- By John Warton at Photo Laureates 2006-07-19
CONTACT INFO
Igor Stunt
photo Laureates
Visit Our Site
514-288-5287
E-mail us Here
ATTACHED FILES
Photo laureates mission and values
Photo laureates mission and values
Uploaded: May 31, 2006
Filename: missionsandvaluesv2.doc
9 steps to better amateur photography
9 steps to better amateur photography
Uploaded: May 31, 2006
Filename: 9pointsforamateurphotographers.doc
DISCLAIMER
If you have any questions regarding information in these press releases please contact the company listed in the press release. Please do not contact PRWeb. We will be unable to assist you with your inquiry. PRWeb disclaims any content contained in these releases. Our complete disclaimer appears here.
Photo Laureates Released this Corporate Statement on Defamatory Statements Issued by Competitors
Montreal, Canada (PRWEB via PRWebDirect) May 16, 2006 –- Photography Laureates (www.photolaureates.org) hereby communicates a rebuttal to unethical activity observed on some Internet forums.
--- CORPORATE STATEMENT ---
Please note that it is the corporate practice of some competitors and/or professional photographers to issue defamatory statements about Photography Laureates in Internet forums in an attempt to harm our reputation as a leading publisher and community site catering to amateur and professional photographers. These competitors simply post defamatory comments on photo laureates (www.photolaureates.org) in forums under fictitious names and address fictitious issues -- but with the same internet IP address. These claims indicate that our editors do not review photographs, associate us to non reputable companies or allege that we do not ship our manuscripts.
Photography laureates does not engage in these unethical and malign practices. No serious company ought. We would just hope that these local competitors focused on caring for their associate photographers as opposed to blackmailing Photography Laureates.
We have also noted that some professional photographers believe that only they should ever be considered for publication with amateur photographers having no place on any publication and not deserving any exposure
We disagree. Talent is everywhere and amateur photographers can teach a lesson or two to even the most professional photographers out there. Photographs are highly individual means of expression and sensibility – traits independent of technical proficiency. Diversity is a source of creation. We, at Photo laureates, embrace diversity.
The mission of photo laureates is to provide a platform of artistic expression to the amateur photography community.
Photography Laureates’ track record speaks for itself with a 98% satisfaction rate and general success in our mission to provide a platform of artistic expression for amateur and professional photographers to gain exposure and recognition. We promote photography and photographers through technical workshops and improvisation sessions.
The manuscripts of photo laureates are distributed internationally. Photographers retain all rights to their photographs. Photography laureates now has more than 35,000 happy members.
--- MISSION AND VALUES ---
Photography Laureates values are shared, as a team, from senior management to provide a leading platform of artistic expression to amateur and professional photographers.
The mission of photo laureates is to get talent known out there. Our professional editors and infrastructure have that sole purpose in mind. Photography Laureates grows through referrals and hence is built to exceed expectations.
--- #1 Our first priority is the satisfaction of our associate photographers ---
1.1 The two senior photography editors of photo laureates, Kyrta Reeve and John Warton, carefully evaluate photographs based on the following criteria: technical quality, composition, flow, texture and light. They recognize that each photograph is a unique piece. All rejected photographs will be clearly documented for the artist to understand and improve his or her submission. Kyrta Reeve and John Warton may also refer the most talented amateurs to prominent publishers (under the photographers’ full copyrights)
1.2 All of us here at Photo Laureates work to craft very high quality products (manuscripts, plaques…) featuring selected photographs. All products are engineered and designed to provide great support for photographers to showcase their work for years to come to friends & family and on their coffee table
1.3 We provide superior customer service and get back to clients within 8 hours on all their questions. Our team also provides full support to all photographers considered for publication by our senior editors.
--- #2 Our mission is also to create a vibrant platform of self expression---
2.1 The mission of photography laureates is to provide a platform or artistic expression and to let the most talented amateur photographers promote their work, network and gain general exposure. Editors refer talented amateur photographers to other prominent photography publishers.
2.2 Photography laureates and its web site www.photolaureates.org is an organization whose main purpose is to create a platform of artistic self expression and to promote the passion of photography.
--- #3 We only work with leading senior professionals ---
3.1 Nothing beats experience. The editors at photo laureates are senior professionals with decades of experience. They are members of international photography associations
3.2 Photo laureates editors treat each photographer as a unique individual and provide feedback on their work
--- #4 We follow through and guarantee satisfaction ---
4.1 Photography Laureates is a North American incorporated entity and has compliance requirements. We only take 35% upfront deposits on our orders as manuscripts take a while to get manufactured (being works in progress as editors need to select entries and then orchestrate the entire design and production). This is done in order to reassure our associate photographers
4.2 We stand behind our offer and will refund our associate photographers if they are not satisfied with their manuscripts.
Photography Laureates offers the following:
* A unique platform of self expression to the amateur and professional photographer
* An opportunity to be published as part of a leading photography manuscript
* 24/7 customer care assistance to help associate photographers network
* Review and pieces of advise from the editors on submitted entries
* A leading membership community where members can exchange and learn with other peers and experts
About Photography Laureates
The mission of Photo laureates is to provide a platform of artistic expression for amateur and professional photographers to gain exposure and recognition. We promote photography and photographers through technical workshops, improvisation sessions.
An independent panel of experts at photo laureates reviews photographs based on the following criteria: technical quality, composition, flow, texture and light.
Photography laureates’ manuscripts are distributed internationally. Photographers retain all rights to their photographs. We have more than 30,000 members and a 98% satisfaction rate.
For more information about Photography Laureates, please visit: http://www.photolaureates.com.
Contact:
Sol – Customer Care Manager
Photo laureates
www.photolaureates.org
# # #
John Warton at Photo Laureates Discusses Judging Amateur Photography 2006-05-17
9 Critical Points to Consider When Making a Photograph -- by John Warton at Photo Laureates 2006-06-01
Tips for Great Nature Photographs -- By John Warton at Photography Laureates 2006-07-18
So You Want to Become a Better Photographer? John Warton of Photography Laureates Provides Five Tips 2006-07-17
Five Most Common Photography Mistakes and Tips for Improvement -- By John Warton at Photo Laureates 2006-07-19
CONTACT INFO
Igor Stunt
photo Laureates
Visit Our Site
514-288-5287
E-mail us Here
ATTACHED FILES
Photo laureates mission and values
Photo laureates mission and values
Uploaded: May 31, 2006
Filename: missionsandvaluesv2.doc
9 steps to better amateur photography
9 steps to better amateur photography
Uploaded: May 31, 2006
Filename: 9pointsforamateurphotographers.doc
DISCLAIMER
If you have any questions regarding information in these press releases please contact the company listed in the press release. Please do not contact PRWeb. We will be unable to assist you with your inquiry. PRWeb disclaims any content contained in these releases. Our complete disclaimer appears here.
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Just for shitz and giggles, I did call the number listed under "Contact Info" It appears to be a fax machine. Go figure.
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How childish is that? When (apart from if you work in politics obviously) did it become defamatory to tell the truth?
Are we to understand that these people are choosing to believe that they are the unfortunate victims of a mass smear campaign instigated simultaneously by tens of thousands of completely unrelated people spread across the globe and, in fact, everything is peachy with their business model?
Is it more probable that they are just behaving like whiny little be’atches bawling their eyes out because no one will play with them at kindergarten anymore?
If a car manufacturer for instance, receives a slating in something like the J.D.Power survey – do they dash out and try and sue all of their customers or do they, hopefully, take stock of the situation and question themselves as to WHY so many people are unhappy with them?
Perhaps Photo/Poetry laureates, picture.com et al should take the same stance and question perhaps the ethics, customer satisfaction and viability of their business rather than trying to litigate the self same people they have already screwed over before.
Are we to understand that these people are choosing to believe that they are the unfortunate victims of a mass smear campaign instigated simultaneously by tens of thousands of completely unrelated people spread across the globe and, in fact, everything is peachy with their business model?
Is it more probable that they are just behaving like whiny little be’atches bawling their eyes out because no one will play with them at kindergarten anymore?
If a car manufacturer for instance, receives a slating in something like the J.D.Power survey – do they dash out and try and sue all of their customers or do they, hopefully, take stock of the situation and question themselves as to WHY so many people are unhappy with them?
Perhaps Photo/Poetry laureates, picture.com et al should take the same stance and question perhaps the ethics, customer satisfaction and viability of their business rather than trying to litigate the self same people they have already screwed over before.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Yeah yeah yeah...! I got the same offer years ago for a poetry book being published... they said my poem had been selected, but the hitch was I had to purchase the book for $60... I declined. I have better things to spend my money on than to line the pockets of scam artists. Caveat emptor.
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"If I dream I shall be real, or really myself..." Robert Penn Warren
Hello this is John Warton from Photo Laureates.
I welcome you on www.thephotochallenge.com where you will see how I evaluate photographs. You will see all my reviews and annotations on all photographs. We also have a brand new live Webinar with hundreds of amateur photographers each week. This is a very exciting call with the community and all learn a lot. It would be my pleasure to have you on the site/call so we discuss about photography.
To sceptics: please come and join www.thephotochallenge.com to see how I evaluate photographs. Let us debate photography based on actual concrete reviews. Again, this is a community of amateur photographers so I am not expecting all shots to be publishable on National geographic. I value originality and creativity.
I am also pleased to know that we receive dozens of positive testimonials from happy laureates receiving their hard cover manuscript. Here are a few:
“John, Thank you so much for this beautiful manuscript. I was amazed by the originality and creativity of other fellow amateur photographers. Joining and interacting with you on the photo challenge as part of monthly contests has been very instructive. Thank you for all!” -- Anna. Mo., Colorado
“Laureates Team – Wow, what a nice book! I now display it on our little coffee table and friends and family give me kudos for my nomination. I feel proud to be next to the other nice photographs in this book” – Peter Sa., New York
We experimented with a new approach to personalizing books with a full page feature and the vast majority of members are quite happy with it. We will continue to track feedback to see if we continue to personalize with full page features or not.
I once again would like to thank the amateur photography community for their participation.
My best regards to all – John Warton
I welcome you on www.thephotochallenge.com where you will see how I evaluate photographs. You will see all my reviews and annotations on all photographs. We also have a brand new live Webinar with hundreds of amateur photographers each week. This is a very exciting call with the community and all learn a lot. It would be my pleasure to have you on the site/call so we discuss about photography.
To sceptics: please come and join www.thephotochallenge.com to see how I evaluate photographs. Let us debate photography based on actual concrete reviews. Again, this is a community of amateur photographers so I am not expecting all shots to be publishable on National geographic. I value originality and creativity.
I am also pleased to know that we receive dozens of positive testimonials from happy laureates receiving their hard cover manuscript. Here are a few:
“John, Thank you so much for this beautiful manuscript. I was amazed by the originality and creativity of other fellow amateur photographers. Joining and interacting with you on the photo challenge as part of monthly contests has been very instructive. Thank you for all!” -- Anna. Mo., Colorado
“Laureates Team – Wow, what a nice book! I now display it on our little coffee table and friends and family give me kudos for my nomination. I feel proud to be next to the other nice photographs in this book” – Peter Sa., New York
We experimented with a new approach to personalizing books with a full page feature and the vast majority of members are quite happy with it. We will continue to track feedback to see if we continue to personalize with full page features or not.
I once again would like to thank the amateur photography community for their participation.
My best regards to all – John Warton
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or just forget your vanity, post your art for free and give your money to someone who really needs it - like for food or shelter. something trivial like that.
P.S. Congrats on the persistence in finally getting an advertorial through.
P.S. Congrats on the persistence in finally getting an advertorial through.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
My update:
I've gotten alot of emails directly to me about this since I have made this post as well as personal messages. Most from those weary of making purchased and wondering if I've discovered any concrete information, but a few that have actually purchased the book.
To clear things up, I did not make the purchased, the fact that the site was questionable alone was enough to keep me protective of my $60. However I do feel as though I should post some of the responses from those that have purchased the book to clear up whether it is a scam or not.
Here are a few of the responses I've gotten that are pertinant:
"photolaureates is a scam!!! I was taken in by their ad and got an email telling me my photo had bee selected for their "anthology book." They praised my photo and I was quite excited about being selected. When the plaque came it had a tiny (1x1) replica of my photo posted on a very generic certificate. The book was even worse. . .the title page listed me as the "featured photographer" on a page that had obviously been inserted just for me. The book contains a few nice shots and whole lot of very average snapshots. Please don't repeat my mistake. . .save yourself and your friends some money and don't send them a dime!! Please share this with anyone you know who might be considering sending a photo to their contest. There are many legitimate contests out there. . .this is NOT one of them! "
"My daughter received her book recently with her "published" photo. Having the keen eye of an artist, she immediately saw that her picture was not really a part of the book but rather inserted in the middle.
After closer inspection I see that she is correct. So, no one will see her picture. I also checked on the website and her name and photo do not appear there either.
So, we did get the book with lots of great photos but my guess is that it is a generic book - worth about 15.00 and they stick in the photo of anyone foolish enough to send in the money. "
I've also gotten confirmation from others that their images are in the center of the book listed as "Featured Photographer"
This is a scam, dont waste your hard earned cash while helping corrupt businesses overcome copyright protection.
I've gotten alot of emails directly to me about this since I have made this post as well as personal messages. Most from those weary of making purchased and wondering if I've discovered any concrete information, but a few that have actually purchased the book.
To clear things up, I did not make the purchased, the fact that the site was questionable alone was enough to keep me protective of my $60. However I do feel as though I should post some of the responses from those that have purchased the book to clear up whether it is a scam or not.
Here are a few of the responses I've gotten that are pertinant:
"photolaureates is a scam!!! I was taken in by their ad and got an email telling me my photo had bee selected for their "anthology book." They praised my photo and I was quite excited about being selected. When the plaque came it had a tiny (1x1) replica of my photo posted on a very generic certificate. The book was even worse. . .the title page listed me as the "featured photographer" on a page that had obviously been inserted just for me. The book contains a few nice shots and whole lot of very average snapshots. Please don't repeat my mistake. . .save yourself and your friends some money and don't send them a dime!! Please share this with anyone you know who might be considering sending a photo to their contest. There are many legitimate contests out there. . .this is NOT one of them! "
"My daughter received her book recently with her "published" photo. Having the keen eye of an artist, she immediately saw that her picture was not really a part of the book but rather inserted in the middle.
After closer inspection I see that she is correct. So, no one will see her picture. I also checked on the website and her name and photo do not appear there either.
So, we did get the book with lots of great photos but my guess is that it is a generic book - worth about 15.00 and they stick in the photo of anyone foolish enough to send in the money. "
I've also gotten confirmation from others that their images are in the center of the book listed as "Featured Photographer"
This is a scam, dont waste your hard earned cash while helping corrupt businesses overcome copyright protection.
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"Then as it was,
Then again it will be.
An' though the course may change sometimes,
Rivers always reach the sea."
To Mr. John Warton:
Your marketing tactic and spin on your "Featured Image" page are cute. But in today's generation we have to hear much more convincing sales pitches every day and are still able to pick out a good scam. Stop wasting your time stealing people's money, and please do not use caedes.net to advertise for your web scam. It is sad to know that a google search on your site will now reveal this blog with your comments. Companies like yours are the reason why I no longer feel I am able to share my best work on caedes.net.
Your marketing tactic and spin on your "Featured Image" page are cute. But in today's generation we have to hear much more convincing sales pitches every day and are still able to pick out a good scam. Stop wasting your time stealing people's money, and please do not use caedes.net to advertise for your web scam. It is sad to know that a google search on your site will now reveal this blog with your comments. Companies like yours are the reason why I no longer feel I am able to share my best work on caedes.net.
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"Then as it was,
Then again it will be.
An' though the course may change sometimes,
Rivers always reach the sea."
I would be interested to know if this organization has any process as to how the supposed winners of their contests/nominees for publication in their books are chosen and what the selection criteria are.
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-Everyone is entitled to my opinion- rescope.com.au
My general rule of thumb: If the organization promoting the contest states that you must either send an 'entry fee' or pay them to see your art in print, it's a SCAM! This particular one has been around for years, testifying to the gullible nature of most people, myself included.
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"If I dream I shall be real, or really myself..." Robert Penn Warren
Be aware of photolaureates.org. Unfortunately I was a victim of a clever and money making scam.
These are facts that have happened to me, I have kept all evidence and can uphold my claims with living proof.
I’m a professional photographer, but wanted to get some recognition from somewhere serious on the web. As most photographers, you’d like to know if you’re doing a good job by showing others your work and getting critics to evaluate you.
After a brief search throughout the web, I found photolaureates.org . Happy with my find, I signed up and entered an very nice photo that I took while in Brazil. A few weeks later I receive an email congratulating me and informing that I was chosen as a finalist in the 2008 photography competition. With all the hype in this email, I sent in a high resolution final for the book that was supposedly going to be published in.
One this was done, I received an email with options to pay for an award plaque, and pay more for a larger photo and biography. I did so, spending a total of about $ 160.00 for 1 large photo, 1 book (2008 photography awards) and 1 customized biography.
Once this was done, I was asked to wait from November 2007 all the way until April of 2008 to receive my award and the 2008 published book. So far, so good!
Finally after waiting even longer than the announced time, my package finally arrived on July, 10 of 2008. I was so happy, but puzzled when I opened the package. Nothing in the package was from photolaureates.org, it was all from a place called “Photography Vibes – best of edition” but miraculously was exactly to the “T” of what I ordered from photolaureates.org. At the moment I brushed it off and went my merry way.
Being that everything did arrive, I was so proud of my award and being published in a book that completely blew off my first impression and went to show some friends my accomplishment!
Once I got there and showed various of my friends the award and photo, which, by the way was the only photo in the whole book that had its own page and the photo was larger than all the other ones in the entire book, and was the only photo that had its own biography (all the other biographies are small and in the last few pages of the book).
When I pulled out the award to show everyone, at first everyone was impressed, I was too!! But then one of my friends pointed out and said “Strange, I didn’t know that Snoop Dog and Notorious B.I.G. were into photography”, to which I replied, “what??”.
At this point everything started to go downhill, and show the true colors of what was really going on.
To my shock, embarrassment and disbelief, I saw my award signed by “Calvin Broadus, Director” and “Christopher Wallace, Coordinator”. Do those names ring any bells??
So, naturally, I went online to check this all out, sure enough, I came across 10 forums of people all saying the same thing… it’s a SCAM!!! At one point someone mentioned that they fell for it too, and when they figured it out, they saw that the page that was in the book was GLUED to another page at the binding. As curiosity got the best of me, I looked at my book, and sure enough, my photo was glued into the book as well.
At this point I was furious and needed to tell people about this. How can someone claim to be something wonderful, then turn around and make money off some ones biggest dreams and turn these dreams into ashes by faking everything and sending out a load of crap.
MAY EVERYONE BE WARNED - THESE PEOPLE ARE CROOKS - IT IS A SCAM!!!
These are facts that have happened to me, I have kept all evidence and can uphold my claims with living proof.
I’m a professional photographer, but wanted to get some recognition from somewhere serious on the web. As most photographers, you’d like to know if you’re doing a good job by showing others your work and getting critics to evaluate you.
After a brief search throughout the web, I found photolaureates.org . Happy with my find, I signed up and entered an very nice photo that I took while in Brazil. A few weeks later I receive an email congratulating me and informing that I was chosen as a finalist in the 2008 photography competition. With all the hype in this email, I sent in a high resolution final for the book that was supposedly going to be published in.
One this was done, I received an email with options to pay for an award plaque, and pay more for a larger photo and biography. I did so, spending a total of about $ 160.00 for 1 large photo, 1 book (2008 photography awards) and 1 customized biography.
Once this was done, I was asked to wait from November 2007 all the way until April of 2008 to receive my award and the 2008 published book. So far, so good!
Finally after waiting even longer than the announced time, my package finally arrived on July, 10 of 2008. I was so happy, but puzzled when I opened the package. Nothing in the package was from photolaureates.org, it was all from a place called “Photography Vibes – best of edition” but miraculously was exactly to the “T” of what I ordered from photolaureates.org. At the moment I brushed it off and went my merry way.
Being that everything did arrive, I was so proud of my award and being published in a book that completely blew off my first impression and went to show some friends my accomplishment!
Once I got there and showed various of my friends the award and photo, which, by the way was the only photo in the whole book that had its own page and the photo was larger than all the other ones in the entire book, and was the only photo that had its own biography (all the other biographies are small and in the last few pages of the book).
When I pulled out the award to show everyone, at first everyone was impressed, I was too!! But then one of my friends pointed out and said “Strange, I didn’t know that Snoop Dog and Notorious B.I.G. were into photography”, to which I replied, “what??”.
At this point everything started to go downhill, and show the true colors of what was really going on.
To my shock, embarrassment and disbelief, I saw my award signed by “Calvin Broadus, Director” and “Christopher Wallace, Coordinator”. Do those names ring any bells??
So, naturally, I went online to check this all out, sure enough, I came across 10 forums of people all saying the same thing… it’s a SCAM!!! At one point someone mentioned that they fell for it too, and when they figured it out, they saw that the page that was in the book was GLUED to another page at the binding. As curiosity got the best of me, I looked at my book, and sure enough, my photo was glued into the book as well.
At this point I was furious and needed to tell people about this. How can someone claim to be something wonderful, then turn around and make money off some ones biggest dreams and turn these dreams into ashes by faking everything and sending out a load of crap.
MAY EVERYONE BE WARNED - THESE PEOPLE ARE CROOKS - IT IS A SCAM!!!
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Hey to all you guys that have been scamed I found a website that you guys should fill out a form so other people are warned. I almost fell for the scam but found this page and found out the truth. http://www.consumerfraudreporting.org/reporting.php
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I just got my "You are a Finalist" e-mail today and ran a search on them. I am glad you guys came up because they seem to have updated there message. It now states Why the photograph was chosen and seems more personal. The main thing that got me susspicious was the statment about the Biography of the photographer being added. All they asked for when I entered was Name and e-mail address, how do you get a biography or any info on the photographic techniques used to capture the Image when you give a four day deadline, that was another clue.
I was excited that one of my photographs was at the publishable level already, but now im not so happy. It was a good image but I have been out of photography for over five years and only back to serious shooting for the last month. Just because the contest was a scam does not mean the shot was not good but it is still a shot at the ego.
are there any good contests around or even if no prizes are involved is there a group on flickr that runs them? As I said I am just getting back to this and need to expose myself (in a good way) to some excelent photography and some of the how it was done stuff.
If you want to get back to me on flickr just do a username search for kevinma255 and I should come up. thanks
I was excited that one of my photographs was at the publishable level already, but now im not so happy. It was a good image but I have been out of photography for over five years and only back to serious shooting for the last month. Just because the contest was a scam does not mean the shot was not good but it is still a shot at the ego.
are there any good contests around or even if no prizes are involved is there a group on flickr that runs them? As I said I am just getting back to this and need to expose myself (in a good way) to some excelent photography and some of the how it was done stuff.
If you want to get back to me on flickr just do a username search for kevinma255 and I should come up. thanks
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we run contests here now and then and never demand payment for them :-)
your right though - the type of contest they run is referred to generally as a vanity contest. lots of massaging of the ego to make you part with your cash for a bit of worthless tat.
your right though - the type of contest they run is referred to generally as a vanity contest. lots of massaging of the ego to make you part with your cash for a bit of worthless tat.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
This comment by slm17890 has been moved to the Hall of Shame.
Quick FYI for John.W's corporate cronies - you can forget trying to sell your brand of particular phoney here as the chances of you getting one of your advertorial fake testimonies on are slim and, about as welcome as a really bad dose. ok?
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
slm17890 is a marketing spammer, please try to leave these out of caedes.net forums.
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Visit my new gallery: www.picpixi.com
this is on the better business bureau.......They rated photolareautes.org witrh an F,
Our opinion of what this rating means:
We strongly question the company’s reliability for reasons such as that they have failed to respond to complaints, their advertising is grossly misleading, they are not in compliance with the law’s licensing or registration requirements, their complaints contain especially serious allegations, or the company’s industry is known for its fraudulent business practices
Our opinion of what this rating means:
We strongly question the company’s reliability for reasons such as that they have failed to respond to complaints, their advertising is grossly misleading, they are not in compliance with the law’s licensing or registration requirements, their complaints contain especially serious allegations, or the company’s industry is known for its fraudulent business practices
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I ordered the book "Photography Vibes" over a year ago. I was supposed to be the featured photographer. I received the book sometime during the middle of last summer. As some of the other commenters have mentioned, my photograph was glued into the book near the center. You could easily tell that it was a generic book and my photo had been just placed in there after the book was published. Near the first of this year I received a message from Photo Laureates explaining that my photography was so good that I had been nominated to receive a pin, of which I had to pay for. The cost was $28.95 plus $5.00 shipping. On the same day I paid for the pin (however I have never received it). Since then I have received several more messages for the same thing. I attempt to reply and ask where is my pin, but the messages just come back as "mailbox full". There is no way on the Photo Laureates website to contact anyone. I now really believe that this organization are scamming people.
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I warn you all... do not have anything to do with Photo Laureates.
They run a scam where they hold fake photography competitions where you can alledgedly win money, then they say your picture has been selected to be in a book and that you can buy a copy of the book.
For those who are foolish enough to buy the over pricde book (like myself) will be shocked to discover that they will never recieve there order !
I made my purchase in October 2008 and was told the book will be mailed to me in December, then after chasing them up about my order i was told it will be sent in January 2009, then when i didnt get it i was told June 2009 !
Not only is it disgusting how much they charge you for a copy of a book, but also the fact they dont tell you your order is being delayed.
Then to top it all off they email you every week trying to get more sales off you ! Who in there right mind will order more stuff when they havent recieved what they ordered originally !
SO what can someone do when the company already has your money and is screwing you around ?
complain of coarse
They run a scam where they hold fake photography competitions where you can alledgedly win money, then they say your picture has been selected to be in a book and that you can buy a copy of the book.
For those who are foolish enough to buy the over pricde book (like myself) will be shocked to discover that they will never recieve there order !
I made my purchase in October 2008 and was told the book will be mailed to me in December, then after chasing them up about my order i was told it will be sent in January 2009, then when i didnt get it i was told June 2009 !
Not only is it disgusting how much they charge you for a copy of a book, but also the fact they dont tell you your order is being delayed.
Then to top it all off they email you every week trying to get more sales off you ! Who in there right mind will order more stuff when they havent recieved what they ordered originally !
SO what can someone do when the company already has your money and is screwing you around ?
complain of coarse
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ATTENTION MORONS FROM PHOTO LAUREATES/PICTURE.COM ET AL. IN CASE YOU HAVENT REALIZED IT YET - YOUR ADVERTORIALS ARE ABOUT AS WELCOME HERE AS A BAD DOSE. IS THAT IN ANY WAY UNCLEAR? REGARDLESS OF WHATEVER ELABORATE USERNAMES YOU MAY TRY TO HIDE BEHIND - OK?
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
i guess its just a desperate attempt for attention/cash before they vanish up their own sphincter in the same fashion as picture.com
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
At least by keeping this thread at the top of the list it's ensuring no one is going to miss it.
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-Everyone is entitled to my opinion- rescope.com.au
I wonder if they persist like this with every site on the net exposing their crap marketing schemes? if so that must take up the bulk of their workforce just keeping track of all the disgruntled posts....
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
just an fyi, I went to see how active photo laureates still was. While typing in "photolaureates" Google's "common search" function kindly provided me with the option of adding "scam" after it. I lol'd @ that just a bit.
Brief investigation leads me to say that they are still active and http://www.boulevardofphotographers.com/ is them as well. (You know, when you have all the same icons and the only thing that changes between each home pages is literally the name showing up in the corner, it's a safe bet they're the same company).
In general, I'd say beware of any Photo contest (or challenge! har har) that offers a $6500.00 Grand Prize. Compare it against the other websites to see if it's just a new alias for these guys.
Brief investigation leads me to say that they are still active and http://www.boulevardofphotographers.com/ is them as well. (You know, when you have all the same icons and the only thing that changes between each home pages is literally the name showing up in the corner, it's a safe bet they're the same company).
In general, I'd say beware of any Photo contest (or challenge! har har) that offers a $6500.00 Grand Prize. Compare it against the other websites to see if it's just a new alias for these guys.
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One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
We should start another of these threads. They really seem to increase membership numbers!
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-Everyone is entitled to my opinion-
having checked a few stats providers i'm guessing it's the drop in revenues and catastrophic (90%) slide in visitors to their site over the last quarter that has prompted the all the feverish activity and rebranding :-)
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
Im not sure what part is the scam. I too received the same email, and fell for it, and bought only the book. I just wanted to see my photo in a book. I received the book today. I have had constant contact with those people at photolaureates. It took about 9 months to complete but i got it. $59. I did a google on the book today after receiving it and its on Amazon for $30 less at $29. So is the scam that i paid for the book, or what? I did email them again today telling them that there is not ISDN #(?) that number you get from Library of Congress, or a copyright year on the inside and asked why. I just figured they sustained themselves with advertisements. Again, I just wanted to see my photo in a book. Only thing im seeing is that I paid $30 more for the book. I wouldnt have been able to find that out if i hadnt gotten the book to see the name of it to google it. Input please?
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Is your photo actually IN the book? Or is it a separately printed page that has been hotglued into the book? The way your photo is placed in the book, is it possible you are the only person to have received this exact version?
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One man sees things and says "why?" - but I dream things that never were and I say "why not?"
The scam is that you aren't winning anything - you are paying for your prize hence it falling into the vanity contest arena. If you really want to see your self in print then you can just use a service like Lulu for self publishing who do provide ISBN numbers allowing friends and relatives to order the book and you get to see your images presented how you want them and not sandwiched into a scrapbook of other peoples snapshots.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
seriously guys - I know business is slow these days but is there nothing better to do with your time than trying to get your little advertorials/fake testimonials on here? like look for another job perhaps?
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
i fell for the scam, but i also didnt have to buy the book either. the way I took it, you could buy the book to have your pic in a book, but you didnt have to. otherwise i was never required to buy anything. again, i know they are not really ethically doing things but again, you dont HAVE to buy the book or anything else. My photo is actually in the book and well, to not be annoyed that i paid the money for the book, i get to see the print inside.
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have you noticed how the morons have now taken to creating offensive member names to try and post their advertorials? seriously - who would ever consider giving these idiots any money. at all.
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A smart bomb is only as clever as the idiot that tells it what to do
I entered a random internet contest a month or so ago and I received an email saying I'd won. But it also said that I would have to pay for the book and the subsciption at a finalists reduce rate which is $60. The grand prize for the finalists is $6500 but it appears like you have to buy the book to receive that. That sounds kind of like a scam but maybe you guys have heard of the site. Their website is http://www.photolaureates.org Here is the email:
Photo laureates™
We are publishing you in our 2006 Photography Anthology
Dear Anthony McQueen,
On behalf of the editing team here at Photography Laureates, we would like to congratulate you for being selected for publication as part of our highly acclaimed photography anthology. As such, you are a finalist for the $6500 prize. As a laureate and talented photographer, you will have access to several networking opportunities aimed at exposing you to the photography community.
Your photograph was selected out of hundreds of competing entries and you will be published along with other talented photographers. Kyrta Reeve and John Warton, our 2 editors, have reviewed your photograph Phone Booth and have selected it for its asymmetric composition and light mix used throughout:
Phone Booth
As a contest finalist and for a limited time, enjoy the anthology in which your photograph is published for only $59 (please note that the regular price is $69). Please note that this offer expires on May-01-2006 (or until stocks expire). The next contest will only be in November 2006.
Click here to take advantage of this as we are finalizing orders. You can view sample selected pictures of fellow finalists by clicking here.
All finalists qualify for the for the $6500 grand prize. As a non sponsored organization, we greatly appreciate the support of finalists with the anthologies.
Paying members will also benefit from the services (review fee paid for by ordering the manuscript) of Kyrta Reeve and John Warton to get their name and work known to other prominent publishers (of course, authors keep all copyrights) and will receive an invitation to the Global Photography conference, in addition to their high quality photography anthology.
Our own photography anthologies are 9 1/2" X 11 and are made of high quality, bounded paper with a 12 point high quality laminated cover. Anthologies have over 350 pages of leading photographs from selected laureates and professional illustrations as well as several sections of photography techniques written by leading experts. They make terrific coffee table books and great gifts to friends and family! Of course, your work will be published in this anthology along with your name.
Sample cover designs, actual covers renewed every year.
Anthony, we also created an account for you. Please access your account by clicking here with the information:
First name::Anthony
Email: apolytes@gmail.com
You can also have your biography printed in the book to highlight your work or your experience.
These are sample photographs selected in the 2006 edition of our anthology.
Anthony,your photograph will be published along with other talented photographers:
Finally, we let you commemorate the publication of your photograph with a certificate in your name printed on a walnut-finished plaque. The plaque measures 10 1/2" X 13".
As one of our photography laureates, your plaque will include your name and photograph as well as a certificate of achievement:
Orders are only available until May-01-2006 (or until stocks expire). The next contest will only be in November 2006. To receive a copy (copies) before reserves run out, please click here now.
Note, to order, you can also cut and paste this link in your browser:
http://www.photolaureates.org/payment/shopping_cart.php?ContestPhotoID=33029
CHECK & MONEY ORDERS (10% surcharge): If you do not have a credit card, please click here to access and print our order form along with your money order/check
All $ are US $. Please add US $8 (or US $18 for international) to the amount of the book for shipping. Else the book will not be shipped.
For help, support, and enquiry, please feel free to contact Minna, our customer service manager at help@photolaureates.org
TO UNSUBSCRIBE: please click here not to receive any email from us.
Please note that due to high demand and limited supplies, anthologies are available on a first come, first served basis.
Refer 5 friends and win $500! One winner every 2 weeks!
John Warton & Kyrta Reeve with the Photography Laureates team
***UPDATE: CONFIRMED SCAM DO NOT GIVE THESE PEOPLE YOUR MONEY OR YOUR ORIGINAL ARTWORK***