OK people, enough! This has been a great discussion so far. Keep it civil. I really don't want to see this thread get shut down. It's one of the most interesting discussions on the topic that I've seen in quite a while.
Disagreement and differences of opinion are perfectly fine. Name-calling and attempts to start a fight are childish and won't be tollerated.
Rant over..... back on topic......
I agree completely with House regarding photography. Even pretty bad algae problems can be hidden with the right photography. Absolutely stunning tanks can loose much of their appeal when shared via poor photos. The dutch are actually on to something here. All of their judging takes place with personal visits by the judges to see the tanks in real life. Flaws become immediately evident and well-planned 'scapes are even more impressive.
In real life, most tanks are far better.... and far worse. There is so much more eye-candy to feast on. Subtle colors are more visible. It's possible to see the interaction of fish and inverts with their environment. It's possible to see the sway of the Cyperus helferi in the background. At the same time, it's easier to see flaws, areas of poor plant growth, algae, detritus, ugly hardware, and stains on the carpet in front of the tank.
Great photos of great tanks are amazing, but, like most people in the hobby, they're almost always more enjoyable and more interesting in person. | 
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