I think having two levels encourages folks to try, who may be too timid otherwise. [patmartj should NOT feel timid, considering the quality of the work!] Strictly speaking, according to the definitions: "Zone I is for advanced intermediate, expert and professional photographers. People who post to this level are usually experienced photographers. They are shooting with prosumer, or better cameras, and generally have a solid understanding and working knowledge of the basics of photography. Zone II is for beginning and intermediate photographers. This can be defined as still learning the basic technical aspects of making good exposures, and/or learning the basic concepts of composition. Their equipment can run the full range of the spectrum from professional gear to point-and-shoot cameras." ...I should be posting in Zone II, which is where I started posting, (maybe should have stayed there... maybe will go back...) For me, the whole monthly Challenge thing to to see how other folks attack a problem. [This way, when I come in dead last against the Big Guns I need not feel too bad!]