My opinion:
This seems to be an average MOC, Buttons, not bad as a WIP, but not good enough to be a Final Version !
I like the fact you put in a hidden treasure behind the rocks, it is a good idea, but I must say it could be done better (regarding the brickuse and "quality" of the rock).
Also there isn't that much cruelty/blood/sloughter... to see...yet...
It is good you posted it here so the other members could make some suggestions though.
Possible improvements:
1) If it is a standoff between 2 old rivals, why do they smile to each other? Faces like those (smilies) would be better IMHO:
2) I would bring some more "coherence" in the rocks that hide the gems. It seems to be to going to much uphill in a straight line...
Personnaly I would remove the few black bricks down there (possibly exchange them for another grey-color), especcialy the small tree should be another color (brown, that is).
3) Use the balded head into your advantage: let is seem that the pirate has been hit by the soldiers paddle, and he got a big BUMP on his head from it ! Photograph this in an appropriate way, the zoom-in pic you posted is almost good, only he hasn't been hit by the paddle yet...

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4) The water: perhaps, if you own any, you could use some lighter blue bricks to represent the undeep water near the shores ?
5) For God's sake, give the poor soldier a weapon to defend himself !
Small / non-brick related advise:
1) RETAKE the pics and post them as described by LEGOKING and MR.PHES.
If it still isn't clear how to post it, read the tutorials or PM me or another member that offers help (or someone from the staff).
Your zoom-ins are a bit too...err...zoomed in, and a bit blurry.
ALSO: USE A BACKGROUND when retaking the pics: a white sheet, or a blue one for the water, should do fine: this eliminates unnecessary distractions on the photo.
2) REMEMBER: 800x600 or your entry WILL be disqualified !
3) Add a (more extensive) story to go with your MOC: it's a vital part of the contest ! If 2 MOCs are exactly as good as each other, the story behind the MOC could/would make the difference !
4) READ the rules: just to be 100% certain that everything is allowed as it should be ! (like: is it really 16x16 ???, 'cause I don't think so at first sight) If not: make it an entry for the BIG competition.
Have fun building this MOC, and I wish you the best of luck with the contest.
Edited by zorro3999, 10 October 2008 - 04:50 PM.