Contest Gallery documentation

Troubleshooting and FAQ

Use a short, repeatable diagnostic process before changing a working gallery configuration.

Contest Gallery 33.xFREEPROSupport

Check in this order

Confirm the gallery ID

Copy the shortcode again from the same gallery. A valid shortcode with the wrong gallery ID can still render an unexpected result.

Test logged out

Use a private browser window to remove administrator privileges, old cookies and existing vote state from the test.

Clear caches

Clear the WordPress page cache, optimization cache and browser cache after changing shortcode or frontend options.

Check the current entry state

Confirm that the entry is active and allowed by the selected category, date and user restrictions.

Use Status and repair

Run only the repair action that matches the issue and retest before changing unrelated options.

HELP-01 · Status and repair
Status and repair. The current diagnostic and repair area without server or customer data.

Common problems

Gallery is empty

Check active entries, category filters, shortcode ID and generated gallery data.

Vote is rejected

Check voter recognition, login or jury restrictions, vote limits, self-voting and contest dates.

Email does not arrive

Verify the recipient and sender, check spam, then test WordPress mail delivery independently.

Payment test fails

Confirm test mode, provider environment and matching test credentials before reviewing the order response.

Information to include with support

  • Contest Gallery version and FREE or PRO edition.
  • WordPress and PHP versions.
  • The shortcode with non-sensitive gallery ID.
  • Exact steps and expected result.
  • Browser console message and relevant WordPress debug entry.
  • A screenshot with personal data and credentials removed.
HELP-02 · Useful support report
Useful support report. A concise fictional issue report showing version, steps and the relevant error only.

Frequently asked questions

Why does voting work for an administrator but not a visitor?

Administrator state can bypass or differ from visitor restrictions. Always repeat the test logged out and review the configured recognition and vote limits.

Why does a changed option not appear immediately?

A page, optimization or browser cache can serve older frontend data. Clear caches and reload in a private window before changing the option again.

Should test payment credentials be used on a public store?

No. Restrict sandbox testing to a dedicated test shortcode or URL and disable the test environment before launch.