Lead Adventure Forum
Other Stuff => The Lead Painters' League => Season 12 => Topic started by: Overlord on March 11, 2018, 12:09:28 AM
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This thread is for general discussion on the LPL12
Questions about any aspect of the rules should be posted in the LPL12 rules thread here: http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=107918.0
First thing to note is that you have more than a month before entries open on 20th April, and nearly seven weeks before the final deadline for entries on 27th April.
Hopefully that will be long enough for participants to paint and photograph 10 miniatures to comprise the required two initial teams :)
I will be running the league this time - receiving entries, setting up the matches and dealing with questions and enquiries as far as possible.
Admiral Benbow will be managing the draw and the leaderboard.
During the competition itself, we ask you to be considerate and constructive with your comments on the running entries. Feel free to voice your opinion about entries, but DON'T post any comments with any sort of "quality comparison" of the pictures for example:
- 'Entry A is great but I have to vote for entry B, because it's so much better'.
- 'Well entry A is so manifestly superior to entry B, that I cannot understand why so many people are voting for entry B'.
- 'Entry A is running for the third time, so I give my vote to the Entry B, just because it's new and I'm bored with the other one'.
Any comments of this or similar sort will be deleted/censored without warning.
Also please note, there's no such thing as a 'both' button. Never has been - never will be ;)
And now get painting. Good luck to everyone!
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All hail our Lead Painter's League overlord, Overlord!
Thanks in advance for running it.
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Just what I need to get me motivated for painting :).
And I have figures for the first two bonus round as well.
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Think I may have to sit this one out this year, recovering from an Tennis Elbow and have a holiday planned just when it starts, but may try to get a head start on the 2019 LPL ;D Good luck to everyone participating
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I have quite a few science fiction support weapons that could be painted but sadly all of them seem to have 2 man crews. I swore I had more Zulu & Sudan British weapons lying around but I need to find the box. Only 6 teams seems a lot more attainable than 10. lol
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Great news. Reckon I might be in on this one :-)
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Great news. Reckon I might be in on this one :-)
:)
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Huh. The elimination rounds actually feel like they detract from what I like most about the LPL. I love the sheer amount and variety of the competition - this feels like it cuts that down.
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Oooooh I'd love to enter again, this year may be a tad trickier though - hols and whatnot. Let's see....
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Have fun guys. It is a contest of endurance fo' su'.
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SLIGHTLY less endurance this year though with the experimental change to the format :)
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I'm looking forward to it 8)
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Huh. The elimination rounds actually feel like they detract from what I like most about the LPL. I love the sheer amount and variety of the competition - this feels like it cuts that down.
I agree. I hadn't clocked that bit (should read the rules properly the first time!). I know it's a lot of work for those running it, but eliminating contestants part way through? Really? Basically if you have a bad couple of rounds first up then you know you won't make it through well before round 6.
Think it's a shame for those of us who are never going to make it into the top half but enjoy the competition nonetheless. I was going to try to get teams done in time, probably still will, but that sours it rather.
So - to offer a practical response. Appreciating you want to generate a showdown in the last few rounds. Why not put everyone who doesn't make it past round six (who wants to keep going) into a mini league 'second division' final three rounds or something like that?
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As Captain Blood has said, this year is a bit of an experiment.
Whilst I accept that a couple of bad rounds might rule a contestant out after Round 6, I did go back to look at previous LPL contests. There is some difference between Round 6 and Round 10 positions each year, but it isn't all that big, with the majority of the 'top 8' being included in both groups.
If it doesn't work out this year we can look at what will happen for next year.
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Fair enough.
I actually meant though that if say I lose in rounds 1 and 2 (which wouldn't surprise me :D ) I pretty much know I won't make it past the elimination round, so it sort of kills the competition off beofre it's really started, whereas with 10 rounds there's still some prospect of moving up the table - not necessarily into the top 8, but I'd be pleased to make it into the top half, or the top 20 or that sort of thing - hence the thought about a 'minor places' league for anyone eliminated at round 6 who'd still like to see where they'd end up overall.
Don't get me wrong, totally appreciate all the hard work that goes into running the whole jamboree, just disappointed that I'll only get to throw 6 teams into the ring rather than 10.
But hey, it's not going to stop me from trying to get teams done in time, or voting on the entries, so it's not as though I'm marching down Whitehall with a placard or anything! lol
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SLIGHTLY less endurance this year though with the experimental change to the format :)
Classy! I didn't notice until now.
Very interesting. I'm tempted to go the first 6 rounds now. lol
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Not sure I like the elimination aspect being tested this year. It seems contrary to the spirit of the LPL and LAF somehow.
I'll give it a fair trial, and I'm unlikely to be able to enter this year anyway, but it doesn't seem right.
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Didn't even notice the elimination aspect, guess I should actually read all the rules ;D
But have to say I hate it, glad I'm not entering anyway this year, and won't enter next year if there's an elimination either. I've entered the LPL 3 times now and I have no illusions that I'll ever win it so the competative aspect is secondary to me, but being forced to drop out half way because you're not good enough would really suck. Plus joining the LPL obviously takes a bit of preparation, and most of us don't paint a full team in a week, so it would really suck if you put a lot of effort into prepping and painting minis for rounds that you're not even competing in, let alone the fact that you need to source specific minis for the theme bonus that you otherwise might not buy. Or should you just assume that you won't make it and not bother prepping beyond round 6? in that case why bother joining at all? Plus I just love to see what everyone does each round, and I'd rather see more then less entries each round.
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I rather like the shortening that is the outcome of the elimination, it will boost the painters who can't dedicate all the time used by those who really have a chance to win, avoid too many duplicate entries, and a crescendo is exciting too. Might participate this year, if I find time to paint 30 miniatures in a six week rush (50 for ten weeks is really too much for most of us who have regular work, kids, and other hobbies).
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Well that mean that I will have to do only 6 teams this year. Which will be easier, whet troubles me more is very short admission time. It happens I am leaving for holidays 20 April and wont return before may.. and I will be totally without internet access.. so I will have to make arrangements with somebody to sent my entries during short entry window.. I couldn't sent them even 1 day early because they would be trashed as invalid according to rules.
One week should be enough time but doesn't take into consideration such problems as mine. And I fail to see a reason what its so.
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A shorter 6 week season was undoubtedly not going to be to popular to all. Conversely, it may be better for others who feel unable to compete for 10 weeks. The reality is that there have usually been just 30-40 members taking part each year, apart from LPL5 with a monster 72 competitors (after which a 50 limit was set, that has never been reached).
The knock-out rounds are intended to bring the contest to a big finale. The last 3 weeks determine final position at the top, relying on the quality of each individual entry rather than on points accumulated to date.
Regarding painting miniatures for rounds 7-9 that might be somehow 'wasted'; you are free to post them on the forum anyway. As a minimum the lead pile gets (slightly) reduced.
One week should be enough time but doesn't take into consideration such problems as mine. And I fail to see a reason what its so.
I accept that it is a relatively narrow window, but it has only been for a fortnight previously. If you were away for those two weeks the problem would be the same. However, the reason for it is exactly the same as yours; I am on holiday prior to those dates. For similar reasons I cannot run the contest with a later start date. The alternative would have been a LPL much later in the year or possibly none at all in 2018.
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Just to add some balance - I love it!
With a family far too big, and a busy work life I can actually imagine completing at least six teams in time. I've no allusions that I'd make it through eliminations, but really like the idea of a grand finale with a bit of a tustle at the top.
LPL is, after all, about drama (at least of the lead variety) so this fits right in IMO.
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A shorter 6 week season was undoubtedly not going to be to popular to all. Conversely, it may be better for others who feel unable to compete for 10 weeks. The reality is that there have usually been just 30-40 members taking part each year, apart from LPL5 with a monster 72 competitors (after which a 50 limit was set, that has never been reached).
To make it clear, I have no problem with a shorter season it's the knock out aspect that I dislike. I can get that having to paint less minis would possibly bring in more competitors, and I have no problem with that, but I hate the fact that you just eliminate participants halfway, I've always thought that participating is more important than winning, and obviously there are a lot of participants that have little chance of winning but join anyway, and I still enjoy seeing their entries week to week.
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I think it's a good idea to try something new. Sticking to the same old formula can make it stale. Good luck to all those who enter. And thanks to the organisers for running it. It does take time to do all this stuff, and all you seem to get in return is people complaining, but rest assured some of us appreciate your efforts. :D
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I have my reservations too, but I also like the idea of shaking things up a bit and trying something new. If it's a complete disaster we can always go back to the old way next year.
I do worry a bit that the idea of "I only have to paint six teams" might take too firm a hold and we end up with a bunch of finalists who have nothing ready because they assumed they'd be knocked out. That would be embarrassing (but kind of funny, too).
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I'm OK with the play-offs concept. It obviously affects the traditional "everyone participates" concept to some extent and reduces the workload / lead pile mining (in good and evil - less stress but also less accomplishment). Then again, everyone is free to post the extra entries at their leisure.
However, I'm a bit concerned about this part:
let alone the fact that you need to source specific minis for the theme bonus that you otherwise might not buy.
Already the optional bonus rounds tended to cause some gripes about buying miniatures which don't fit into one's projects or normal shopping list. They were still optional, though. Now we have a mandatory theme round (I can't recall any earlier examples despite participating in most seasons since 4th), and it's relatively strictly defined (no fantasy shoehorning or such) and it's the first one after determining the finalists. Doesn't that mean that everyone who has even a remote chance of making it to the top 8 is forced to purchase those minis, and in order to have sufficient shipping/painting time it must be done a few weeks in advance? Consequently, the top 16 or whatever must do that speculatively by round 4 or so, but only half of them will actually make it. Others will just end up with unnecessary purchases. That doesn't sound like reducing one's lead pile, does it?
This overall combination feels a bit poorly planned to me, but please correct me if I've misunderstood something or just want to argue the matter otherwise. :)
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Participants don’t HAVE to follow the theme in these rounds, but they will win extra bonus points if they do.
From the rules
So no need to buy anything.
But themes this year are very specific.
I decided to skip thematic rounds altogether this year as space marines ARE closest thing to Brits I have (And I will put them in the round :P
And I dont have any team served weapons unless I will try to add some 15mm to the mix.
Happily I dont have to worry about Explorer round ;)
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May I suggest that you re-read the message and the full rules section you were quoting?
Rounds 1 and 4 are bonus rounds featuring a specific theme – a creative challenge for participants. Participants don’t HAVE to follow the theme in these rounds, but they will win extra bonus points if they do.
In these rounds, if you submit a new team for a bonus round that matches the bonus round's theme, your team receives an extra theme round bonus as specified below (in addition to the 10 point ‘new team’ bonus).
Round 7 has a compulsory theme for all 8 quarter-finalists.
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The LPL has always featured themed rounds, so this year is no different in that respect. Some themes have been very wide, but others less so. Examples: Armour in LPL9 or Conquistadors in LPL2. As has been commented, a certain amount of shoe-horning has taken place at times. A closer definition limits this.
Making the round 7 theme mandatory is a change and was done after consideration. It was felt that one of the knock-out rounds should be themed and that round 7 was most appropriate. The format means that bonus points do not apply (except in the case of an absolute draw), hence there would be no real incentive to follow the theme unless it was made compulsory. I do accept that this may mean some competitors would need to paint entries that would be specifically acquired for the contest, only to find that they have not reached the final eight. A gap between rounds 6 and 7 was considered, but the contest would lose momentum as a result.
As has been stated, this year incorporates change and at its conclusion we will see how it has worked out. If forum members think it isn't suitable a return to the previous, or some other, format can be considered.
I have little doubt (as has been the case so far) that there will be members for and against the changes. Discussion is good, but can we all please keep it civil.
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Submissions are now OPEN for LPL12!
The final deadline for entries is next; Friday 27th April. You must submit TWO teams by this date and remember (if you want the bonus points) that Round 1 is themed – The British are coming!
You have until 23.59 BST on Friday 27th April to get your first two teams in at lpl@leadadventureforum.com
Please see the rules thread for full details: http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=107918.0
The first round of LPL12 will open for voting on Sunday 29th April, 2018.
Good luck to everyone. :)
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Hurray! The lists are open - let's hope there's a good field... :)
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I'm not hopeful of making it this year, Was behind n my usual schedule beforehand but my father passed away a week Saturday ago and time has just evaporated since. I have the first two rounds painted awaiting pictures so may push on but can't guarantee there ill be new figures each round this year :(
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Sorry to hear that, Khartoum2. My condolences to you.
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I'm not hopeful of making it this year, Was behind n my usual schedule beforehand but my father passed away a week Saturday ago and time has just evaporated since. I have the first two rounds painted awaiting pictures so may push on but can't guarantee there ill be new figures each round this year :(
Sorry to hear that. My condolences.
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I have my reservations too, but I also like the idea of shaking things up a bit and trying something new. If it's a complete disaster we can always go back to the old way next year.
I do worry a bit that the idea of "I only have to paint six teams" might take too firm a hold and we end up with a bunch of finalists who have nothing ready because they assumed they'd be knocked out. That would be embarrassing (but kind of funny, too).
I think the new rules moves the LPL towards a tactical competition rather than an encouragement to paint. But I encourage you to try it. I am afraid I realize now, this time beforehand, that I won't be able to keep up with the necessary paint, staging and photo schedule this year.
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I'm in for the first time in 4 years, having been encouraged by the change to the format after the first 6 rounds. The main reason for not participating in recent years has been the grind for producing 10 teams, which took up most of my available time for other projects for close on 3 months.
However despite the fact that I am happy with my painting style, I am not expecting to progress to the knock out round, given the standard in recent years.
What I have discovered is that my camera skills for photography small teams in close up are distinctly dodgy. Therefore I have set my goals for this LPL to improve this skill as the competition progresses. We shall see if this is possible.
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I am afraid I realize now, this time beforehand, that I won't be able to keep up with the necessary paint, staging and photo schedule this year.
That's a shame. I shall miss playing "Where's Wally?" looking for the man with the hat, briefcase and dog.
Hu Rhu, I think getting good at the photography side of things is almost as key as getting good at painting. I wish you the best of luck with that. Using the LPL to hone your skills is a damn good reason to do it.
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I've resigned to not making this year - I've spent lots of money on terrain recently, so can't in good conscience dedicate the time to painting LPL teams that I'd like to. I enjoyed last year too! Good luck those that are entering.
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What I have discovered is that my camera skills for photography small teams in close up are distinctly dodgy. Therefore I have set my goals for this LPL to improve this skill as the competition progresses. We shall see if this is possible.
Handy guide to photography of minis - https://www.warhammer-community.com/2018/03/06/the-model-photo-how-to-photograph-models-for-display/ (https://www.warhammer-community.com/2018/03/06/the-model-photo-how-to-photograph-models-for-display/)
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Got teams painted, but some of my photos are awful. In two minds about entering as I think my photography skills and staging are just so poor I've lost half the battle before it even comes to voting. Ok I never expect to win anyway, but I'd at least like to do the figures justice with the pictures.
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I won't be in this year, but I'm looking forward to spectating!
THe new rules look interesting... It's probably a good idea for everyone to just assume they'll make it after the elimination rounds and paint all entries anyway... At the very least, they'll have a few entries ready for next year! :D
Thanks
n
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That's me out as well, just taken on a couple of large commissions that'll take the time I set aside for the LPL. Maybe next year :)
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That's me out as well, just taken on a couple of large commissions that'll take the time I set aside for the LPL. Maybe next year :)
Glad to hear your business is booming, James!
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Me too lol
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Man, they're dropping like flies! Is anybody doing it this time? :)
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I already have entries submitted. But there is currently still space for anyone that would like to enter. :)
You have until the end of Friday to send them in.
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That's me out as well, just taken on a couple of large commissions that'll take the time I set aside for the LPL. Maybe next year :)
But you've already done several teams! Just get on with it man! ;D
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Only finished one team properly ;D
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I'm out too - as usual my painting projects are going all over the place, and I think I need to just go with the flow for a while. Looking forward to the show, however. :D
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I will take the pics for rounds 1+2 tonight.
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Only finished one team properly ;D
Oh, I have a few teams near completion, but no Brits. :)
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I for one would rather see a Britless Hammers than a Hammerless LPL. :)
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I for one would rather see a Britless Hammers than a Hammerless LPL. :)
Agreed 8)
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I hate duing this thing half-assed.
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You now have less than 22 hours to submit your initial entries for inclusion in LPL12. :o
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Am I missing a page or are there really only 18 entries into this years LPL? Also I am not seeing many of the traditional participants such as Admiral Benbow, Captain Blood etc. What has gone wrong? :o :o
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Very sad to see the field dwindled so. Has taken the wind out of my painting sails a little, I'm prepared to admit. :(
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Just 18 entries this time.
Some members (including Captain Blood and Admiral Benbow) were intending to give this year a miss, even before the contest was announced. Maybe the new format isn't liked? Maybe there is little interest in taking part in general?
Entry numbers have varied between 26 and 70+ over the years. It has always been a very small percentage of (7000+) members taking part and voting (sub 400 in LPL11). All forum "contests" attract only small numbers of participants. You can't force people to enter.
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I normally throw in, but this year has turned into a beast to find time to paint - so with a convention game to finish stuff for, I decided to give this a pass to not stress myself out.
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I entirely understand. Personally I found the LPL quite a hellish strain, which is why I've only ever done it once. :)
I'm not mad at any individuals (I think you have to be a bit bonkers to enter it at all), just sad that it seems our once-great event is in decline.
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I entirely understand. Personally I found the LPL quite a hellish strain, which is why I've only ever done it once. :)
I'm not mad at any individuals (I think you have to be a bit bonkers to enter it at all), just sad that it seems our once-great event is in decline.
The *event* is not in decline, some of it’s members are, at least this one. :)
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Ageing demographic? ;)
I didn't enter this year because I paint mostly fantasy and the themed rounds just didn't mesh, plus it's such a hard slog keeping going for all the weeks. Good luck to those who have participated.
It could also be in keeping with a general trend, that traditional fora like this are in decline and some of us have migrated to social media? I know a few of the forums that I used to frequent are practically dead these days. LAF is one of the few stalwarts that seems to keep going, potentially the oldies sticking to the old ways and not taking up this new fangled facebook and twitter malarkey. Spoken (half) in jest. I am happy to partake in the old and the new, there's pros and cons to the different formats, but it could well be a trickling away to other platforms?
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Just 18 entries this time.
Some members (including Captain Blood and Admiral Benbow) were intending to give this year a miss, even before the contest was announced. Maybe the new format isn't liked? Maybe there is little interest in taking part in general?
Entry numbers have varied between 26 and 70+ over the years. It has always been a very small percentage of (7000+) members taking part and voting (sub 400 in LPL11). All forum "contests" attract only small numbers of participants. You can't force people to enter.
Same happened in the Build Something Competition earlier this year, which had comparatively few entries.
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I was sorely tempted but I’ve not had any time to paint this year as I’ve we’ve just had a baby.
Shame as with several of the big hitters missing I would have had a better chance this time!
Some very nice entries nonetheless.
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It is, unavoidably, a wee bit disappointing. But then again, well done to the 18 valiant fellows who have entered. There are many seriously nicely painted entries there, and that's worth celebrating :)
Nothing ever stays the same. LAF has changed enormously. Many of the 7000+ members we have here now don't seem quite so interested in the visual aspects of the game - painting figures, modelling, making lovely terrain and scenery. This was very much part of the early LAF ethos. For many people these days the aesthetic stuff is perhaps not so important. Rather it's all about the game, rules, systems, scenarios, etc. Pity, but there it is.
Also, of the many, many people who have had a tilt at the LPL (I'd guess 250 or more different participants down the last 11 years) a lot of people do it once or twice and then decide (as mentioned) it is way too much like hard work - which it is! You have to be very motivated or very competitive (like me! >:D) to keep on coming back to it. This time, I've had recent cataract surgery, so it was never going to be possible for me this Spring. Also, having 'medalled' a few times, I had already decided it was time to step back a bit from it.
But perhaps next time, I will be unable to resist! :D
Please don't be too downhearted. It's one of those things. I think it will pick up again.
I'm going to focus on enjoying the entries we have got, and wishing good luck in the hunt to all the painters taking part - keep it up lads :)
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I really applaud those who do take part in LPL, it does seem to be an awful lot of work, in the painting and the setting up scenes to photograph.
I mainly game in 10mm, so I would have to spend a lot of time painting specific stuff for LPL.
It might help participation if it was made very clear that although it is a competition with weekly rounds, there is no expectation that people are painting their figures each week. It took me a few years to twig onto this. Perhaps a bit of a build up to LPL from Jan through to the start of the comp might help people realise that they may actually have a good number of entries available for the comp, by the time it starts.
There is another barrier to entry and that is the astonishingly high level of painting and presentation displayed in LPL. Its not a great motivator to enter a competition when you have no expectation of winning. I know winning isn't everything, but its nice to think if you pull everything together you have a chance. But having seen the level of entries, I know that isn't remotely likely.
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I seem to recall there was quite a long run up either last year or the year before from announcement to start, which I think helps a lot - I'd certainly not be in it if I actually only had a week each time!
The level of skill may well be factor - I'm resigned to coming near the bottom each time, not a problem but I think my entries always suffer from a lack of photography and staging skills. Not that my painting is up there with the best by any means! I do think there have been occasions when I've been beaten by the terrain etc compared to the actual figures though.
On the other hand, the LPL has encouraged me to actually start investing seriously in terrain and scenics!
Not to harp on a previous topic, but maybe the knock-out put potential entrants off? Nearly did for me.
But, maybe it's just a blip this year and next year numbers will be back up. :D Just wish I could paint as well as some of this year's entries though!
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... entries always suffer from a lack of photography and staging skills. Not that my painting is up there with the best by any means! I do think there have been occasions when I've been beaten by the terrain etc compared to the actual figures though.
From just having voted on the first round this year, I think photography and staging are hugely important. There are several pair offs where one set of figures is just better lit, and clearer than the other set. This immediately makes them look better.
Staging helps too - some setups look immediately more engaging because of clever or intricate staging.
Both of the above take time. As well as the painting taking time.
Learning the above is a good thing. I've certainly started thinking about how to photograph my figures better since seeing ones on LAF. But generally I can't be bothered to put in that extra effort. Its enough effort to get the figures well lit and photographed.
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This is the first time I have entered the painting league, I am by no means a great painter nor photographer and certainly do not expect to proceed beyond round 6. But I find this league an excellent motivation to build and paint some miniatures I probably would have left lingering in the mountains of minis indefinately. I like how the "british" and "support" themes are handled, not compulsory but with extra points for entries keeping to the theme.
I fear the round 7 compulsory historic theme might be putting some painters off, especially if they like me do not have any historic minis.
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It is, unavoidably, a wee bit disappointing. But then again, well done to the 18 valiant fellows who have entered. There are many seriously nicely painted entries there, and that's worth celebrating :)
Nothing ever stays the same. LAF has changed enormously. Many of the 7000+ members we have here now don't seem quite so interested in the visual aspects of the game - painting figures, modelling, making lovely terrain and scenery. This was very much part of the early LAF ethos. For many people these days the aesthetic stuff is perhaps not so important. Rather it's all about the game, rules, systems, scenarios, etc. Pity, but there it is.
Also, of the many, many people who have had a tilt at the LPL (I'd guess 250 or more different participants down the last 11 years) a lot of people do it once or twice and then decide (as mentioned) it is way too much like hard work - which it is! You have to be very motivated or very competitive (like me! >:D) to keep on coming back to it. This time, I've had recent cataract surgery, so it was never going to be possible for me this Spring. Also, having 'medalled' a few times, I had already decided it was time to step back a bit from it.
But perhaps next time, I will be unable to resist! :D
Please don't be too downhearted. It's one of those things. I think it will pick up again.
I'm going to focus on enjoying the entries we have got, and wishing good luck in the hunt to all the painters taking part - keep it up lads :)
Well spoken. I am certainly not done with the LPL either.
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Well, this year was a bit of a test-run for me and has actually had a surprising and positive motivational effect in general.
Very sad to see some of the stalwarts taking a break but still enough competition to make anyone entering thoughtful. I'm also a big fan of some of the new entrants so really looking forward to seeing what the new blood brings :)
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Gah! It's looking quite dodgy already. I really am too slow a painter for this malarkey. I think I might just make it to the end of the regular rounds, but beyond that is dicey. Think I'm going to have to pray I don't make it through to the knock-out stages. The problem is that there is no way I can paint an entry in one week, so I started some time in advance. However, I don't think I started early enough (and I don't really feel it is in the spirit of the LPL to start too early anyway).
Right now I'm fine, but each entry is taking too long, and eating into the time that is really needed for the next one. So each one has less time than the one before to get it done and thus I will eventually run out of time. As I say, I'll be fine for a few weeks, but by the time we get to week seven God knows. Possibly doing a first entry with nine figures was a mistake! That could have been almost two entries. :)
Oh well, it has been a lot of fun, though. And it has got me painting again and actually enjoying it, something I have been pleasantly surprised about. :)
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Oh well, it has been a lot of fun, though. And it has got me painting again and actually enjoying it, something I have been pleasantly surprised about. :)
Well worth it then :)
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I'd love to have entered but it never made sense as the first few weeks would have coincided with overseas travel plans.
I'm currently on a Rhine/Moselle river cruise but am grateful that I have good internet access so at least I can follow the efforts of others
Maybe next year
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I decided in the second half of 2017 to not enter the next LPL show. I did 1,2,3 and 7, and then 9,10,11 in a row. So time for some other projects. Maybe I'll do the next one again ...
There is another barrier to entry and that is the astonishingly high level of painting and presentation displayed in LPL. Its not a great motivator to enter a competition when you have no expectation of winning. I know winning isn't everything, but its nice to think if you pull everything together you have a chance. But having seen the level of entries, I know that isn't remotely likely.
Well, this year some of the top painters didn't participate. A great chance for everybody then? I don't think that winning the show should be your only motivation. For me it has always been a motivation to get better, learn from others, give the best you can and being part of a great community of painters and modellers. Does it cost time and effort? Of course, lots of!
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I agree winning shouldn't be the only motivation. But its certainly one of the motivations to entering a competition. I'm just giving my perspective as someone who hasn't participated in LPL, and am unlikely to. But I have participated in some other online painting comps.
The various painting 100 clubs and badges are another way of participating and interacting with the rest of LAF, which have a far lower barrier to entry.
But LPL is certainly a high standard and high volume painting comp, I don't think its too surprising that relatively few people enter.
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I'm in to clear some lead pile. As far as I am concerned, nothing is better for production than a looming deadline.
I've been knocked out of the top three a couple times, so 'winning' is nice (especially the free dinners, bags and bags of cash, and accolades from world leaders) but certainly not something I count on. My first year I ended top three (didn't expect to and frankly probably didn't deserve it) and another year I think I was squeezed out due to funky pairings of participants ;) Reminds me of the semester I received an 'A' in a class I should have gotten a 'B' in and a 'B' in the course I deserved an 'A' in :) Best not to take it all too serious!!!
I'm a little surprised at the limited turnout this year, but that's what happens. I almost skipped, for no real reason other than wanting a break after the 'Build Something' and a busy as hell semester.
This year I'm hoping to paint some figures I've had for about fifteen years, the remnants of a set of minis that appeared in my first LPL.
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I decided to miss this season because it took too much effort last time. I don't enter every year though.
Also I think most prefer to see scenic displays and I can only offer five painted figures.
And, I already had enough painted figures to compete in 9 rounds - Conquistador "army" and my Servants of Ra - so felt that was unfair on other competitors who might be painting like mad to hit deadlines.
Maybe next season...
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The knock-out definitely did NOT dissuade me from entering. My reason was simply my free time has evaporated. Poof! Ever since that day in February when I got the call my 79-year-old dad had broken his hip, I knew my life was in for some changes. Spending most of my evenings helping my Mom cope, and taking her to visit dad meant there was no way I would have time to paint even the six rounds I would have likely made it through.
I plan to be back next year, though. Good luck to the participants! Thanks for the great first round... :-*
Mike Demana
www.firstcommandwargames.com
http://leadlegionaries.blogspot.com/
(http://i721.photobucket.com/albums/ww213/mikedemana/Miscellaneous/LPL_bades_zpsl7op2jaz.jpg)
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The knock-out definitely did NOT dissuade me from entering. My reason was simply my free time has evaporated. Poof! Ever since that day in February when I got the call my 79-year-old dad had broken his hip, I knew my life was in for some changes. Spending most of my evenings helping my Mom cope, and taking her to visit dad meant there was no way I would have time to paint even the six rounds I would have likely made it through.
Sorry to hear that, sounds like you made the right choice though based off my experiences seeing relatives in similar situations. Broken hip at that age is a major event.
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PLEASE NOTE:
Voting for Round 1 will close at 0700 (BST) tomorrow, Saturday 5th May.
This will continue for all subsequent rounds to allow the admin behind the LPL to make preparations for the next round.
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A quick reminder that submissions for Round 3 must be in by midnight (BST) on Friday 11th May.
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Something funny going on. I can't see the results of any of the matches. They are blank. Can anyone else see them? Also, the date on the polls themselves indicates the polls have another day to run, and yet clearly they don't.
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I closed the polls earlier today, as per my post yesterday (see above). This was so that we can organise the match-ups for Round 2 starting tomorrow. When setting up polls you may only select a number of days for it to run and I therefore need to lock the voting before that period has elapsed.
I don't know why the results are not showing. I can see them all, but I have moderator privileges. Can anyone else see the results from Round 1?
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Possibly it is because I haven't voted myself, and you don't get to see the result until you vote. The software is claiming that the vote is still running (usually when the vote is over it says voting has closed and tells you how many voted, etc. but it is still insisting there is time to run) and so I guess it thinks I'm not allowed to see it yet (everybody can see the result once the vote ends). Perhaps I will be able to see the result when the "official" end to the vote has come.
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Yes, you cannot see the vote count until you have voted. You may be correct that the result will not display openly until the "official" poll end. It is not something I have encountered previously (Running LPL7), so I don't have a better explanation currently. Now if you had voted.... ;)
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It just don't seem right to me, voting on a thing you're in. Nellie Kim and Nadia Comăneci didn't get to score themselves and each other.
That'll teach me. :)
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It just don't seem right to me, voting on a thing you're in.
Do what I do and vote for the other side. That way you get to see the result and you don't lose sleep over the rights or wrongs of it.
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Just a reminder that the entries for Round 3 should be submitted by 2359 (BST) this Friday (11th May) :)
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Another reminder for Round 3 pics, due in by the end of tomorrow.
I have replied to all those I have received to date. If you have not received a confirmation please contact me again via the email or PM.
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Just turned in weeks 3 through 5. Only week 6 left to finish up. Back to terrain for a couple of weeks. I have another 40k tournament to run soon, and it might just be my biggest ever.
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Just turned in weeks 3 through 5. Only week 6 left to finish up. Back to terrain for a couple of weeks. I have another 40k tournament to run soon, and it might just be my biggest ever.
Well done!
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Aye, well done. Not as on top of it as you are. myself. Wish I was! I have Week 4 done. Weeks 5 and 6 are glaring at me accusingly from the painting table.
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4 and 5 still need homework for me :-)
... and perhaps 6 now I come to think about it.
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My secret, and also why I bring up the rear of these things, is I am a binge painter and a speed painter. Working around doing terrain for my store and having three kids requires such. Teams 1-5 were 90% done in 2 sittings, for better or for worse.
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Yeah, I have three kids and it's chaotic from a hobby paerspective. Lots of 2am painting in my house.
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NOTE: Round 2 voting ends within the next 12 hours, so if you haven't already done so, VOTE NOW.
All entries for Round 3 received. Well done everyone, no matter how busy you are! :)
My Round 4 minis are sat undercoated, taunting me.... ::)
Remember, the next round is themed:
Round 4 – Support weapon
Paint a team that comprises a support weapon and at least 4 miniatures representing the crew. Examples would include an HMG, mortar or artillery piece. At least 3 miniatures must be intrinsic crew/operators. Additional miniatures might include an officer/commander, spotter, ammunition carrier or similar. Rank and file troops do not qualify, nor do smaller weapons (2" mortar, LMG, bazooka, etc), these usually being 2-man. The weapon should not be self-propelled (no vehicles), but might include draft animals or towing vehicles in addition to the weapon and crew.
The team may be based individually, on a single larger base, or a combination of both. Entries from any genre; historical, fantasy or science fiction are permitted. Submit an appropriate team and earn 10 extra theme bonus points.
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Less than 24 hours left to submit Round 4 pics. Currently awaiting 7 entries. All received entries replied to.
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It's becoming quite hard to follow the schedule, and I had to rush to finish this one. I decided to join in this year because it will likely last only 6 weeks. I have my fifth entry already secured, but will struggle to produce my sixth one. Moving my ideal from detailed paint brush to impressionism! :-D
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It's becoming quite hard to follow the schedule, and I had to rush to finish this one. I decided to join in this year because it will likely last only 6 weeks. I have my fifth entry already secured, but will struggle to produce my sixth one. Moving my ideal from detailed paint brush to impressionism! :-D
Hang in there, Renaud!
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I was a bit poorly at the start of the week, which has thrown me off schedule. I have taken the day off work today, hopefully a painting long-weekend will get me back on track.
If I can see it through to the end of the league stage I will be happy. After that God knows what's going to happen. Even if I'm in the knock-out stage, I may have nothing to show. But we'll see how it goes. :)
You can do it, Renaud! We believe in you!
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Ive sent mine at the last moment.
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still working on my round 4...luckily my country's midnight is an hour before the UK, which kinda gets me an extra hour. I might just make it.
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After the initial two entries I thought I would be fine, but turns out I simply can't keep up with this. Too many other things at the moment that take priority, I'm afraid. To be done properly, this league takes careful planning and preparation in advance. I have enough older projects I can enter so I don't drop out for first 6 rounds, but such recycling misses the point of the whole thing. Oh well, there's always next year.
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I's love to see your work in there, even if it is recycled at this point :)
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I's love to see your work in there, even if it is recycled at this point :)
Me to!
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Hello
Great to see this again!
I missed the first fur rounds, did I miss the email?
Thanks
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Well, made it to the end of the league phase, have sent off the last entry. It was touch-and-go this week, and the first one where some of the painting felt rushed.
It's been so much fun, and I'm really glad I entered. I'm back into painting in a way I haven't been for years. I really hope I can carry on, but I fear that things are going to be increasingly shoddy and rushed from here on, that's assuming I can even get anything done in time.
Fingers crossed! :)
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I’d echo all of that :)
It’s had a wonderful impact on my motivation to paint.
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Last year was my "Most painted models year" in my whole wargaming career... Ive painted 60 models for LPL itself (and around 30 more)!
This year I will finish with 32 (and some terrain pieces) due to 6 round span, but I will struggle to paint equal number of models til the years end :P
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Well, made it to the end of the league phase, have sent off the last entry. It was touch-and-go this week, and the first one where some of the painting felt rushed.
It's been so much fun, and I'm really glad I entered. I'm back into painting in a way I haven't been for years. I really hope I can carry on, but I fear that things are going to be increasingly shoddy and rushed from here on, that's assuming I can even get anything done in time.
Fingers crossed! :)
Seeing you back in full flow, Dylan, has made this LPL for me. So worth it.
:)
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Thanks, Richard. That means a lot, especially coming from you, what with your pedigree in the LPL (and LAF in general).
This year I will finish with 32 (and some terrain pieces) due to 6 round span, but I will struggle to paint equal number of models til the years end :P
I think I've come in just shy of 50. With hopefully still a few more to come. We'll see.
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I've loved your entries Plynykes, really awesome stuff. Seems like a few months back you wrote that you were thinking of 'throwing in the towel' so to speak- and I am glad to see you didn't ;)
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Seeing you back in full flow, Dylan, has made this LPL for me. So worth it.
:)
This in spades.
I still regularly visit Dylan's blog, despite the lack of updates these days, re-reading the posts for inspiration.
Sadly many of the original LAF alumni's blogs are falling by the wayside (and worryingly both of Alex's seem to have gone offline in the last few weeks) so it's a big deal to see new genius/madness happening :-)
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Struggling to get that last entry in after being ahead of the curve most of this season. I've turned in new 15 out of 15 times in 2 seasons. Don't want to break that streak. The grind is real again.
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Ive finished cleaning up after setuping photo ( I went overboard and used miniatures from all my previous LPL 12 rounds as a farewell combination:) just 15 minuets ago.. You can make it Angstpuppet!
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Struggling to get that last entry in after being ahead of the curve most of this season. I've turned in new 15 out of 15 times in 2 seasons. Don't want to break that streak. The grind is real again.
I always feel pretty good after entering the first three- "Awesome, a three week lead!" I tell myself. Invariably after round four (or on round 4) I'm down to the wire each week. I have no idea what I'm doing for round 7, even assuming I make the cut.
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I always feel pretty good after entering the first three- "Awesome, a three week lead!" I tell myself. Invariably after round four (or on round 4) I'm down to the wire each week. I have no idea what I'm doing for round 7, even assuming I make the cut.
Whether you do or don't good luck to you this week and in the future.
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Ive finished cleaning up after setuping photo ( I went overboard and used miniatures from all my previous LPL 12 rounds as a farewell combination:) just 15 minuets ago.. You can make it Angstpuppet!
That's awesome. Congratulations. Waiting for stuff to dry, then final wash on 3 of 6, then pics in the yard. My terrain is an hour round trip away and I don't have the time.
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You will make it :)
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You will make it :)
I did. Thanks for the kind words. Glad to be done yet I can't wait for next year.
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NOTE: Round 6 will not appear until later this afternoon (BST)
[No problems, just unexpectedly called in to work overnight - then need to sleep] :`
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For some reason I can only see 4 match-ups for Round 7 :o
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For some reason I can only see 4 match-ups for Round 7 :o
Please have a look at the rules. After round 6 only the top eight went into the quarter finals, so we have only 4 matches.
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oooh that's new....
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Not been on properly for a while due to computer issues
Will we be lucky enough to have another year of the LPL in 2019
Thanks
Gordon
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Good question Gordon. It takes some organising, and the last time out - despite the ever increasing forum membership - there was a much reduced field of participants (in numbers, though absolutely not in quality) and considerably less LAF members bothered to vote on the matches each week. All of which is somewhat disappointing and makes one wonder if it has perhaps run its course. I hope not. But let’s see what other people think and then we can decide if there’s enough interest to attempt an LPL13! :)
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I'd like to see another one
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If we don't have another one I'll be champion for life.
Can you live with that? lol
(Sadly I won't be entering if there is one this year. There is just no way I could manage it yet, it was bloody hard enough when I was in good health.)
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I'd like another one, kind of relieved it wasn't when it normally is as I'd never have been able to get teams painted, but now in a much better position time and painting-wise so pretty sure I'd enter. Quality of my photography notwithstanding!
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Maybe we should scale down from 10 to fewer entries?
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I'm up for it depending on the rules this year, I hated the knock out phase, and didn't even vote for those last few rounds, because while I'm happy to vote for a win, I hate the idea to vote to remove someone from the contest. Also hated the compulsary theme last year, for me those are two good reasons not to join, otherwise I'll be happy to make the effort again
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Good question Gordon. It takes some organising, and the last time out - despite the ever increasing forum membership - there was a much reduced field of participants (in numbers, though absolutely not in quality) and considerably less LAF members bothered to vote on the matches each week. All of which is somewhat disappointing and makes one wonder if it has perhaps run its course. I hope not. But let’s see what other people think and then we can decide if there’s enough interest to attempt an LPL13! :)
Maybe less people voted because they didn't like the new format - the knockout rounds? Or it could just be a reflection of the general trend online for forum activity to shrivel as other platforms are used? It would be interesting to see if the stats on the painting section followed general trends on the rest of the forum, if they were inline with other traffic/activity.
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Thanks Captain
I think the change of format might have had some impact (positive and negative) but possibly made it less exciting as the competition went on with fewer matches
I know when it comes to voting I always looked forward to Sunday morning irrespective of whether I was competing or not. Last year I was a bit all over the place as I lost my father and had to sort everything out with regards to that
I can't talk for others but I have really enjoyed it over the years and know that you organizers put a lot of effort into making it happen (can't emphasis my level of thanks on this). Hopefully it hasn't run its course otherwise the one part of the hobby my wife approves of has been lost - then I'm in the deep doodah
Maybe a question to ask what people would like. I know one of the big challenges is getting a set of 5 miniatures painted each week, photographed and sent in can be a challenge (I know I've finished some very close to the wire even having my wife take a picture while I'm at work). Possibly a competition that run every second week may create a new level of interest with entrants
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I think I would be more likely to participate if it was more spread out. Two weeks between challenges sounds good. A bit more radical would be a challenge per month, running across pretty much the whole year.
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The foremost thing that hold me back from entering in any given year is that I'm to slow a painter to finish 5 figures in a week... :(
Also my motivation to paint stuff was pretty low in the last few years...
Last year I wanted to enter but the combination of the format change and the more-than-usually restrictive themed rounds put me off.
The LPL (and the BSC) was always a highlight of the year for me and I will be sad if it will be finished, but I can understand the reasons behind a decision like that.
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For years I've always wanted to take part in the LPL, but three things have always held me back.
1) Work commitments
2) Poor health
3) Inability to photograph miniatures!
My health is still a problem, but to be honest, I know that taking part in something like the LPL would force me to learn the photography skills that I currently lack, so that would certainly be a good thing. While I've never been a participant, though, I've always been an avid audience member, and have voted consistently for years. I realize that it's a lot of work for the organizers, so thank you all for everything you've done over the years. Hopefully it will continue for a little longer, even if the format changes. I know that a bi-weekly schedule would be something I could manage much better than a weekly one, but perhaps interest would wane over those longer spans? Difficult to say.
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I think I would be more likely to participate if it was more spread out. Two weeks between challenges sounds good. A bit more radical would be a challenge per month, running across pretty much the whole year.
I like the sound of that :-)
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Good question Gordon. It takes some organising, and the last time out - despite the ever increasing forum membership - there was a much reduced field of participants (in numbers, though absolutely not in quality) and considerably less LAF members bothered to vote on the matches each week. All of which is somewhat disappointing and makes one wonder if it has perhaps run its course. I hope not. But let’s see what other people think and then we can decide if there’s enough interest to attempt an LPL13! :)
As Richard pointed out, we had a steady decline of voters in the last LPLs and only a small base of participants in the last run, very far from what has been seen here some years ago. And it's mid of February when the first members even asked about any interest in another round ... Personally I don't think it has anything to do with "restrictive themed rounds" or the (experimental) knock-out rounds. In my view the LPL has had it's day and is now overlapped by the massive daily diet of hundreds of new miniature pics on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
But anyway, if another LPL will be run, I could offer to handle the calculations again and will support the organizing team. I'm excited to see the great LPL-fanbase discussing things here ...
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Can’t commit to entering, although I would be tempted and if numbers were low I dare say I would, but I always look forward to LPL Sunday’s and getting to see new entries.
It’d be a shame if it were not to happen again as it’s become a bit of an institution.
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If extending it to a two week schedule got more entrants then great. I don't think a once-a-month competition through the year would work as it would be too long waiting for the next round.
If it was made into a fortnight, why not split the rounds - so half the contests get released for a week of voting in the first week, then half of them in the second week? Still gives people the same amount of time to paint, same deadline, and the scoring stays the same, but encourages interest across the two-week window for each round.
I was a bit discouraged by the change to the format last year, just because it dropped a lot of people after the first six rounds and I preferred the original format. That being said, I still entered...
I don't mind the themed rounds, although perhaps the parameters could be a bit broader or more generic?
Appreciate it takes a lot of work for the organisers, but I do think it brings something different compared to the mentioned blogs, facebook, instagram etc. though. The thing with the knock-out, if that is kept, why not have those who don't get through put into some sort of 'B' final knockout alongside the main final? I know that makes more work but might keep interest up?
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I tend to vote every week though sometimes not until the last day. I enjoy the excellent painting and photography. I didn't mind the elimination round and top qualifiers only finishing it off. I have not participated for other unrelated reasons. I salute those who manage to participate year after year - that is a real feat.
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I am camping on projects for this years edition already.
Bought yesterday models for 4th week lol
Never considered possibility of its non happening :o
I dont agree that FB floods us with comparable pictures.
LPL charm and why I entered after several years of just drooling is the way it tells stories with those photos.
Thing rarely seen outside..
Wonders that some of the masters like Dr Prof and Cpt did put my modeling and painting to much higher standards (I know I will never reach their level but by aspiring to it I grow as a modeler
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I am camping on projects for this years edition already.
Bought yesterday models for 4th week lol
Never considered possibility of its non happening :o
I dont agree that FB floods us with comparable pictures.
LPL charm and why I entered after several years of just drooling is the way it tells stories with those photos.
Thing rarely seen outside..
Wonders that some of the masters like Dr Prof and Cpt did put my modeling and painting to much higher standards (I know I will never reach their level but by aspiring to it I grow as a modeler
I agree. The LPL has a unique profile compared to what\s posted elsewhere. It is much a competition in making eye candy styled photos for wargaming publications. I think the drop in participation has to do with the fact that it is rather taxing to produce 10 such entries over ten weeks. Stageing and photography adds to 'the burden'. Perhaps that's what we should we should try to adjust. Perhaps.
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Thanks for the thoughts so far. Please keep them coming :)
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Always love to see the entries. The skill and output of participants can be a bit daunting, but I have been thinking of joining for several years.
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I really enjoyed the old school fantasy painting club (first one I've actually managed to participate in.)
But the LPL is beyond my ability to commit too. As its a foregone conclusion that life would get in the way. But Ive throughly enjoyed watching those who can .
I'm not even sure I'd be able to commit to a scaled down version.
Slighty hypocritical I know but I'd like to see it return.Even in a revised form.
Mark.
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I've always wanted to participate, even though my painting could be described as 'good wargaming standard' at best. The ability to commit to multiple rounds is a problem with real life, work, family etc. Is there a theme for this year?
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Individual rounds have themes (generally three in each LPL) rather than the league as a whole. One would assume that won't change if we have another one, but you never know.
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Individual rounds have themes (generally three in each LPL) rather than the league as a whole. One would assume that won't change if we have another one, but you never know.
Well, as I have recently moved continents, and I'm only just rebuilding my lead pile, I would have to have plenty of notice to purchase minis. There's very little in there that isn't WW2 in 28mm, or Ancients in 15mm.
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In the past the themed rounds have been non-compulsory, meaning you can ignore them of you don't mind taking a little hit to your points ranking in the table.
However, there was one compulsory themed round last year, part of the shake-up to the format that occurred. It was towards the end in the knock-out phase as I recall, so it didn't affect all the participants. If memory serves someone had to pull out because they couldn't make it, but I may be wrong. Don't know if we'll be doing that again, but personally I didn't find it onerous, and luckily managed to complete the entry with figures in my existing collection. Not sure how I feel about the concept, but I can see why some were against it.
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A compulsory themed round would almost certainly deter me. A voluntary theme has always worked in the past, can't really see a good reason why it was changed.
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That specific round really had to be compulsory if it was to have any meaning at all. As it was a knock-out round if it hadn't been compulsory then everyone could have safely ignored the theme, as there were no points at stake. That would have rendered it pointless, but it did mean a rather big break with tradition.
I suppose that highlights that tinkering with the format can create odd ripples in the rest of the contest if we aren't careful. I think it was slightly unfortunate that this came about, though as I said, it didn't actually affect me personally at all.
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There have been quite a few changes to the rules of the LPL over the years. When the editing/montage restriction was put in place I was somewhat unhappy at the time, but I am convinced it was for the best for many reasons. In addition to leveling the playing field, it introduced a need to get much better at composition and creativity and as a result my photography got a lot better.
The 'spirit' of the LPL was to get stuff painted, and I think most people are in it for that reason. Sure the competition part is high priority for some people (there was a couple years where I was all-in) but now I just like the personal challenge of getting 80+ minis knocked out within a contest run :) The compulsory round and knock-out format sort of seemed counter to the initial concept of the event.
I guess I'd look at it from the 'spirit' perspective when deciding where to take it, but I'm happy to work within whatever the format is.
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I'm new to the forum this year, so I'm just getting familiar with LPL. I like the idea, and I'd love to see another one run. Looking back at past years, it seems that Season 12 participation was an anomaly. Personally, I'm not crazy about the knock-out round version, as it removes the majority of the participants who had been playing along.
All that said, I'm a pretty slow painter, so I'm not sure if I could keep up in order to participate. If adding my name to the hat helps though, I'm willing to give it a shot.
-Elroy
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All that said, I'm a pretty slow painter, so I'm not sure if I could keep up in order to participate. If adding my name to the hat helps though, I'm willing to give it a shot.
I second that.
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Before season 11 concluded I had decided I wouldn’t enter LPL12. Decision made to take a break the changed format passed me by.
Only those of us who have taken part know the commitment involved and I personally struggled toward the end of LPL11 and my enjoyment waned as a result.
If there is another one in 2019 I would try to participate but with current work commitments I couldn’t make any promises.
As for my views on the format\rules I’d try to just go with it, but if you’re looking for suggestions, the simpler the better. The original concept seemed best summed up as “paint 5 figures, photograph, enter, repeat” For me that is quite exhausting enough without further complications. ::)
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In 4 days we had around 18 people talking about another LPL here. That's not much, isn't it? But perhaps many members are not aware about this discussion at all, so I started a poll just a minute ago, let's see if we get more opinions in through that way ...
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Good idea Michael :)
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Maybe highlight it at the top of the forum? in the News section.
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The 'spirit' of the LPL was to get stuff painted, and I think most people are in it for that reason. Sure the competition part is high priority for some people (there was a couple years where I was all-in) but now I just like the personal challenge of getting 80+ minis knocked out within a contest run :) The compulsory round and knock-out format sort of seemed counter to the initial concept of the event.
The spirit aspect (and the league's development over years) is worth bringing up. Just for the sake of going back to the roots, I think this (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=2399) is the original rules post of season 1, later recycled and possibly edited for seasons 2 & 3. Some quotes:
Of course, painting quality is a key point, but the competitors will also score points for the number of figures they produce – a good balance between the two will prove most successful, but it will provide good chances for gamers AND painters alike. We cannot comment if this is as good an idea as it sounds, but remember, the focus is on “fun” – time will tell, and don´t take it too seriously!
The entry picture may NOT be a collage of individual pictures, but should be a "group shot" of the complete team, possibly in a decorated environment, or in front of a plain backdrop.
You do NOT have to enter a new team in every new Round, but you are ALLOWED to do so. You may compete with a single team for the whole season
Actually, the rules (as written) haven't really changed that much over the years. However, I'd dare to say that the league became a bit of a victim of its own success as people started to push for more and more presentable teams and scenes. At some point it became almost an unwritten rule that new teams are expected. Any repeats started to cause slight disappointment among voters. Later at least three new teams became mandatory. The ratio of terrain scenes vs plain backdrops was also increasing every year. In a few (fortunately rare) cases I even managed to get quite blunt feedback for posting a rushed photo and thus failing to meet someone's quality expectations.
In short, the expectations went up and I feel that some potential attendees (or even old-timers who no longer could keep up with their previous standard) started to find that daunting. The rules barely changed, but the trends did.
I have participated maybe six times. Last year I had to skip for various reasons, including working on an army project that just couldn't be turned into LPL entries in any sensible way. To be honest, I wasn't very happy with the knock-out or mandatory theme concepts either. The bonus themes were also difficult to match with anything I had on my project list. Looks like this year I'll skip the army projects instead so there might be room for good old five guy teams. Let's see.
I could go on, but it's getting late so let me leap to one key point: As long as LPL is a league and there's scoring, the competitive aspect is already there. I don't think it should be emphasised any further. Instead, we should try to make the league truly inclusive and welcoming, and really get that message through. One friend of mine tends to repeat that "every painted miniature makes the world a better place", which should be the primary goal. Knock-out rounds brought in more competition and less painting, which IMO was the wrong direction. Just try to celebrate anything that gets painted and posted, no matter if it's not exactly top 10 material.
Regarding the number of entries and the schedule, maybe there's no need to change anything, because repeats are still entirely legit - at least in the rules as written, right? The original "one team for the entire league" extreme case may feel a bit too distant today, but isn't five or six still fine - also in practice - if we just decide so?
That's all for now. I'll try to post more at some point. The last few weeks have just been total murder due to our annual Republic of Rome game, the Tactica trip, one funeral and all that, hence I have to clear up various backlogs. Today I'm already painting something, though. :)
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Sorry started all this then vanished for a while but was away without WiFi grrr
Can't comment on FB as don't have a profile.
re alternate 2 weeks can't quite see how this would come together for the two sides. Longer periods I think would lose interest in voters quickly as they would forget when new round starts.
Off to find the vote and cast mine