CVDCC competition images are judged on an absolute scale ranging from a lowest score of 5 to a top score of 9. Advanced and Intermediate entries are judged together.
An Advanced entry receive an Excellence Award if it receives a "9" score; and an Honorable Mention if it receives an "8" score.
An Intermediate entry receive an Excellence Award if it receives an "8" or a "9" score; and an Honorable Mention if it receives a "7" score.