Hi Reinardina

I was always under the impression that votes do not matter one bit, beyond that those with higher votes are likely to be spotted first as the selectors have to enter the site to view and select ( if they view via Readers choice each time); I also assume as it is 'Photographer' and not Photo of the year a reasonably full portfolio of good pictures would be useful.

At the end of the day I think it is down to the 'personal choices/ bias' of the selecting party and possibly the judges finding one or two off their own bat. ('Hobsons choice' as they say)

On that basis, and as I know there are many good photographer entering; any comments / votes I receive are an encouragment regardless of any possible selection and accordingly I tend to vote in the same spirit (voting where I see some merit in the work).

Regards
Andy