The First Custom Clinic Photo Contest by Mark S. Gustavson

When I first thought of running a Custom Clinic photo contest, I did not suppose that there would be much response. After all, the Clinic had only been published for a short time. 

In short, I was greatly surprised by both the quality and breadth of the entries. A broad range of highly-qualified and certainly creative builders participated. However, many of the photos were little better than marginally-useful, and some of the photos were entirely unacceptable. That is a critical problem because if the model can't be seen clearly, it can't be properly appreciated. That meant that a sizable number of entries had to consigned to the honorable mention category for the sole reason that they couldn't be seen. Therefore, while one or more of the models in the honorable mention category might represent a better effort than one of the Top Twelve winners, I couldn't tell. Therefore, when you enter the Second Custom Clinic photo contest in 1995, take the time to do a better job with the photos.

Please take a look at the accompanying photos which include captions in which I evaluate the strong and weak points of the design work of the builders. Assuming equal photo quality, I judged the contest on these elements: integrated and balanced styling, risk-taking, and excellence of body work and paint. While many models had detailed engine and chassis, those elements were not evaluated though all of you know about my thoughts about comprehensive building.  

Thanks to all of the entrants for entering; your awards certificates (for everyone) and prizes (for the Top Twelve) should have been received by now. I want to specifically acknowledge the great support of the first Custom Clinic Photo Contest sponsors. Once again, they have come through for the hobby! Watch the column for details on the next contest!!

Sponsors: 

• Bare Metal Foil Company
• S&S Specialties
• Replicas and Miniatures Company of Maryland
• National Model Car Builders' Museum
• AMERICAN SATCO
• Scale Equipment Limited
• Parts by Parks
• Model Car Garage

On to the photos!