@ Firesnuffer - you can upload any image you want to have scrutinized in the gallery. The difference is that you've gotta tell the viewers in your comments section - "Hey, not sure this image works and I'm looking for crit/advice" kinda thing. The Critique Threads are a more formal critique with interaction. I think there's 2 a week...? Just let Danob know about it, and he can tell you what to do as far as procedure.

And don't worry for a second about being a newby - anyone who would make you feel unwelcome just because of that shouldn't be part of a community. I kinda feel there should be no room for elitists. Okay, there's no "kinda" about it - there should be no room ;-)
-Lew ;-)