The following was created by DennyBoy. The original thread can be found here:
http://www.phototopix.co.uk/site-cha...-guidance.html
Commenting & Critique Guide for Regular and New Members
These are just a few ideas I have gleaned from various sources, web sites and such regarding looking at and commenting on other peoples images. I would welcome any additional input that may help especially newer members to get stuck in and give some Critique when it’s asked for. I have used my own words so we cant get accused of copyright!
When posting Image
Leave an idea of any constraints on shooting, a brief idea of the set up used if you think pertinent. This could be had to lie on floor and look through viewfinder to get angle or wall to my left so couldn’t get ideal angle. Any other factors e.g. struggled with light due to time of day e.t.c.
Maybe give a brief idea of what inspired you to take the image and what you were trying to achieve.
Reasons People may not comment
Not knowledgeable about photography or the subject, not confident enough to comment, cant express themselves, not enough technical knowledge or simply don’t know what to say. We want/need people to be active and not just post images.
Why comment?
Comments on a photo really help the photographer. They can give confidence, offer suggestions and give ideas for future photos. A good comment can forge friendships, develop ideas and educate. Not every comment can be deep or insightful, but just expressing how a photo made you feel is very valuable to a photographer. Thoughtful comments encourage photographers and build our Phototopix Community, and that benefits us all.
What to Say?
I have an image I want to comment on first question to ask must be
Why?
Is it?
To express your emotions?
Do you think WOW! Or wonder how they did that? If inspired to comment its only fair to let the photographer know this.
·What feature is the stand out feature of the image?
·What emotions did it stir in you?
·Does the image remind you of anything?
·Is the subject of interest to you?
·Is the photo controversial or does it make you angry for some reason?
Is it? To ask a Question?
Phototopix exists so we can all learn, and the only way we learn is by observing and then asking questions about images that you may need to or just want to know so you can go out and try it for yourself. e.g.
·What was the creative drive to take the image?
·How did you do that? In PS or some other means?
·What made you use those camera settings? (exif)
·Why this subject?
·What difficulties did you have taking the image?
Is it? To offer constructive critique or suggestions?
This is the bit most people seem to struggle with, they wrestle with their thoughts whether to comment or not if they see something in an image but it might offend the photographer. Photographers learn by mistakes sometimes and if not pointed out how will they know? Most Photographers want to know good or bad what is right and wrong about what they are doing.
Just as you shouldn’t feel shy to ask questions, nor should you be shy to offer suggestions or criticism. Whether your suggestion is just a personal preference, a neat trick you have learned, or based on experience, most photographers welcome input that can help improve their photos. It’s important of course, not to be arrogant or derisive, but if you feel you have something constructive to offer, get stuck in! It’s nice to start by saying what you like about the photo, or you could end up sounding too critical. Ideas could be;
·A more effective crop
·A better shooting angle
·Black and white or colour
·Technical flaws e.g. blurring, tilted horizon, too dark/light, DOF e.t.c
·Make alternative but positive comments to help the photographer
By taking a little more time to think about your comments, you’ll become a far more valuable and respected Phototopix member. Others will appreciate your effort, and likely return the favour, or at least want to know more about the cool person that left a nice comment. You will end up getting more out of OUR community, and hopefully encourage others to follow your example, and that will be a good thing for us all.
Perhaps if you often get comments that haven’t had a lot of thought put into them, you can gently and politely suggest the commenter’s visit this guide!
Neath, Wales
