What a difficult question! What makes an award-winning life? Is the award necessary, or just nice to have once and a while? Competency (usually through dedication and practice). Originality. Certainly Luck! More specifically, I've known situations where photographers have carefully researched the Judges, and learned what they like. As a practical matter, Read the Rules! [You'd be surprised how many worthy entries fall by the wayside because they do not fit the rules.]