svdl wrote: " A plus of modeling your own stuff is making the image unique. Most models on the marketplace are easily recognized when used in a render." I totally agree to that, some items really stand out. But i think this happens because most of the users here, don't bother much with their images, they just import an object, import premade lights & cameras, and then hit "RENDER". Still some artists create unique images, using favorite products; they put a lot of effort to present these items in an original way, using their own unique style. Concerning contests, i don't think that an image based on "ready-to-render" products would get many votes, ranks, or whatever. So, bottom line for me is: Modeling your own stuff & breathing new air into other's products, are two different things, both fit for praise!