It feels to me that people try to participate with whatever they have on their hard drives, instead of participating with whatever they have on their hard drives that fits the theme. I admit I might be a bit too competitive at times, but it sort of takes the fun out of it when there's no point in following the rules.
Let's face it, not everybody has to participate every month, I'm still waiting for mating/birthing themes and I know I won't be able to participate that month. Who knows how many themes there are that I can't participate in just because I don't have (or I am unable to take) a suitable picture. Skills and equipment only let you take a high quality picture, but it won't create the opportunity.
Had to dig up one of my own quotes from the very first contest:
"And I just want to add that when you vote (wait for the poll
), vote for the one you like best. The skills of the photographer and the quality of the camera should be of lesser importance."