I have entered a couple of aquariums that finished with dust, and rightfully so. My photos are poor, my scapes are pre-novice.
I also entered Buster a couple of times. Now to me he is a winner, but I am unoffended that others thought him an also ran. Pictures do a poor job of conveying personality and to give him his best chance would require I have my phone or camera on me at all times. Not happening!
Magnum, I do not think your tanks ugly, I think them very nice but also very niche. Niche does not lend itself to popularity contests.