A Thousandaire!

Things are going strong with Bench's #LoveMyHood Contest!

Before I started, I reached out to Bench to verify that:

1) Entries are definitely unlimited.

2) Entries are definitely random, are not judged and will be drawn from all eligible entries.

Bench confirmed both of the above points, so I was ready to go!

So, my approach for this contest has been to monitor the entries and do my best to ensure that I post nine pictures for every one posted by ANYONE else. Ideally, by contest's end, I'll have 90% of the entries.

It's been a challenging proposition so far. In order to get the necessary pictures, I've been taking long walks around my neighbourhood, as well as around my office. If I see something interesting, I snap a quick picture. I don't have a cell phone, but I do have an iPad, so I've been carrying that in my messenger bag as I take my strolls.

So far, I've averaged 90 pictures per day or so. I'm not a photographer, so the subject matter and quality of the photos varies wildly. To respect my fellow Torontonians' privacy, I've avoided taking pictures where individuals' features could be discerned. I also try to avoid using filters unless it's absolutely necessary to tweak a picture to make it viable.

As of this writing, I've posted over 1000 pictures. I've tried to be very supportive of the contest on social media, always responding when it's mentioned on Facebook or Twitter.

The other participants are doing an amazing job, I must say. There are a couple of professional photographers who have submitted, and their pics are fantastic. There are also a couple of people who also post regularly, usually two or three per day. I'm very glad that there has been such a positive response.

I remain hopeful that Bench will select the winner randomly as per the Rules. If so, I'm in very good shape. Bench, MacIntyre Communications and a number of cool fashion blogs are doing a great job promoting this contest and I'm very glad to be a part of it! 18 days to go!