Compared to some of the long term members posting photographs on this website, I am a relative newcomer (on board since March 2012). During the time leading up to that, I spent more than a year just tuning in to Shipspotting and enjoying the many photos uploaded. I would also surf other sites (VesselTracker/Marine Traffic, etc). They are good sites as well, but I chose "Shipspotting" over the others to post majority of my photos because of the format/presentation/Easy navigation/the many categories to choose from, etc. As well, the site attracts a knowledgable group of photographers posting great stuff. I enjoy the occational interaction among members when comments are made. My photos are somewhat puny compared to others and 99.9% of my uploads get very little attention. I am perfectly ok with that. (I am actually more interested in seeing what other members have to contribute). I did not join Shipspotting to engage in lengthy chit-chat sessions. Nor did I join thinking this was a contest of some sort to see who posts the most photos in a given day or who garners the most hits. Sure, it's fun and satisfying if your photo should make it into the top 3 category, however the site is much more than that. (Some great photos and Maritime history on display). Given the enormous popularity of the site, it is evident a strong monitoring policy is required. I sometimes get my "nose bent out of joint" when a photo of mine is deleted. Similar to the slogan "post quality, not quantity", I like to remind myself to, "get it right, or get it out". Occationally that is not always the case and I sometimes mess up and post a not so good photo. :-)
Rules, regulations, guidelines, call them what you like, they are necessary to ensure order and proper functionality. Imagine what any popular sport would be like without rules or referees. Chaos, confusion would result very quickly.
In response to the last paragraph in Ken's initial post, there are certain categories that might use a bit of an over-haul (i.e. funnels). There are some inconsistencies that could be addressed internally and externally.
In spite of the recent controversy, which I hope will soon be resolved to (most) everyone's satisfaction (impossible to keep everyone happy), I think the site is well managed and a strong discipline is required to achieve that. A good Captain runs a "tight ship". Same should (does) apply when running this web site. Ken as Webmaster and his team are doing a good job in keeping this ship afloat. Their efforts are appreciated.