Is their some criteria for grading or do we just judge on what we like?
If you Google how to judge a photography contest you get a number of answers.
Below is a 100 point scale.
1. How Technically Correct is the Photo? (20)
Are the following the best they can be? Focus, Sharpness, detail, depth of field, colour, brightness, contrast, saturation, usage of light.
2. Subject Matter / Content (20)
How well does it fall within the brief/assignment?
Creativity.
3. Composition (20)
Does the photograph tell a story?
Where is our eye lead to in the photograph?
Is the photograph balanced, if not, is it creating the visual impact it should?
4. Do I like this photograph? (All Else Aside) (40)
Like all art this is dependent on our own tastes, likes, dislikes and the way we see the world and experience it. It has nothing to do with how experienced photographer is. (Unfortunately)
TOTAL = (100)
Wayne touches on a few points. A few of the finalists are technically flawed. They may be overworked or off centered.