Several months ago, I submitted a photo to a Picture.com (International Society of Photographers) contest for 2004 pictures. I was just notified that I have won the "Outstanding Achievement in Photography Silver Award Bowl", along with a medallion and a free one year subscription to the International Society of Photographers.
However, they want me to pay $169 in order to claim these 'awards', to cover shipping, etc.
Has anyone ever heard of this? Is it a scam, or are the awards something to be proud of, and the cost to claim them real?
The photo I submitted was a version of this:
Thanks for any info you guys can provide.
Here is some of the text of the email I received:
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Please note that because so many people took advantage of this opportunity, we have extended the time for you to elect to receive your awards, and benefits of ISP membership, provided that you will allow us to present your photo "Sunset Ship Sonata" (see your photo here) at our next convention and that you have elected to receive all of the awards and benefits of ISP membership that we have scheduled for you. Your awards, which will be shipped to you at this time, include your custom engraved Outstanding Achievement in Photography Silver Award Bowl (see it here), your bronze Commemorative Award Medallion, and your Full One Year Membership into the International Society of Photographers for 2005.
In this regard, we have arranged for your photographic artistry to be prominently displayed at a future international gathering of photographers. Your photograph, along with your name, will be presented exactly as you created it, so that your artistry receives the international exposure it deserves. In this way, over 1,000 attending photographers and their guests, who come from all over the world to attend the convention, will appreciate your photograph.
...
-- Your Outstanding Achievement in Photography Silver Award Bowl (a $200.00 value) is a magnificent work of art in itself that measures over 10 inches across and over 11 inches high. It is handcrafted in silver and has your name custom-engraved on a beautiful cherry-wood base (see it here). It is certain to enjoy a special place of pride in your home and will serve as a fitting symbol of your unique photographic artistry.
-- Your bronze Commemorative Award Medallion is a deeply etched bronze medal (a $40.00 value) brilliantly displayed on a 25-inch red, white and blue satin ribbon.
-- And your Full One Year Membership into the International Society of Photographers for 2005 (a $60.00 value) entitles you to a personalized membership card, special discounts and contests, and a free subscription to our quarterly newsletter. Please note, if you are already an ISP member, your benefits will be extended an additional year.
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