are my photos that rubbish that they need ignoring?

[surrealillusions]

I've noticed this a few times now..i've posted some photos then get maybe 1 or 2 replies if im lucky, and about 100 views. Within a day its down at the bottom of page 2 whereas everyone else posts photos and immediatly get several hundred views and a million replies and stay near the top of page 1 for a few days. It just really ****es me off that i take the effort (like everyone does) to go out, spend money, take time off work to get some photos of something i enjoy, take time and effort in the post process, post them to get some feedback, and greeted with a wall of silence.

I appreciate this a busy forum and people only have time to reply to a few threads (like myself) but surely theres more than 1 person out there that has the time to reply and critic my photos.

Its just really annoying that for all the effort i put in, i get virtually nothing in return :bang:

Am i the only one that gets this or does everyone else get ignored or no replies? Or are my photos really that bad?


*rant over...and breathe....*

 

[Chillimonster]

I think we're all guilty of looking but not commenting at some time. I tend to browse a lot on my iPhone and its a pain to type replies sometimes, and by the time i get home i've usually forgotton which threads i've looked at

When i'm at work a get a little more time and try to keep up with some of the subscribed threads (mainly 365's) i'm involved in.

The weather doesn't help either as people are spending less time in front of the screens at the moment, so don't take it personally

 

[DonnaM]

EdinburghGary posted a thread "Call to Arms" about this a few weeks ago, it caused a bit of a stir. I think that most people don't like to say "bad" things about a shot and many do not consider themselves qualified enough to make a valued comment. Lots more are just plain lazy!

 

[grahamc]

I see the same! Personally I would prefer to get the "bad" comments, it helps me improve.

 

[mavron]

I`m one of those who look all the time at pics but dont leave comment ./ Thats not to say theres something wrong in any way with you`re effort and i apologise for that . In my mind , i dont feel qualified to judge others work . But i will say this . DONT be put off by me . People who make the effort are the people who keep this place an interesting and fantastic learning school . But nor do i feel i should not ast least look at the works .Again , i apologise to all because of the tremendous effort that goes into you`re work . Keep it up . It is bringing me out so to speak so there is a good cause after all . And thankyou for sharing . Take care . Ron

 

[a1ex2001]

I used to comment more but since work banned photobucket and the likes I've pretty much stopped looking as unless it's on Flickr, here or a private domain I can't see it!

There has always been a reluctance to comment on here alot of people feel uncomfortable saying anything negative and alot of people can't take the criticism even though it's often the negative comments that help you improve rather than endless reams of 'Good Shot' which is nice for the ego but not much use really!

 

[STARRIDER]

I`m one of those who look all the time at pics but dont leave comment ./ Thats not to say theres something wrong in any way with you`re effort and i apologise for that . In my mind , i dont feel qualified to judge others work . But i will say this . DONT be put off by me . People who make the effort are the people who keep this place an interesting and fantastic learning school . But nor do i feel i should not ast least look at the works .Again , i apologise to all because of the tremendous effort that goes into you`re work . Keep it up . It is bringing me out so to speak so there is a good cause after all . And thankyou for sharing . Take care . Ron

....

 

[jgs001]

I know how you feel. Although I know I've not been so good at posting recently, just too many things going on, so I've not been looking at many threads, let alone commenting on any of them.

 

[Byker28i]

There's 13 photo posting forums, I try to comment on some I feel qualified to, or I'm interested in. Others I may aspire to take similar shots and so learn from others by viewing (portrait and glamour are the obvious examples).

Lots of photo's to view though...

 

[medwaygreen]

I read this and was going to pass on a reply, then i thought no lets say something, that is what i believe is the thought process when it comes to commenting on photographs. People look and appreciate the photo and i believe if it is an outstanding photo make a comment. You will see on a lot of photo posts that have a lot of comments the comment is not always constructive its more congratulatory, IE Nice one, well shot, great set etc, which is good, but what does it say?
I have posted some of my photographs and have received minimal response, however very helpful response and for this I am very grateful.
So what I would say to you is that, no, it does not mean your photographs are bad, that would I think generate a lot of replies, they are not shrinking violets on this site, it may just be that you are like me perhaps in between the very bad and the very good in which case it is often difficult to create a short, but appropriate replies to posts.
My own reaction to this situation is OH WELL my next post will gain better response because it will be a more dramatic and thought inspiring shot.
KEEP ON CLICKING. This topic will properly create your record for replies.

Regards.

 

[DekHog]

I think a lot to do with it is if it's 'your thing,' that you happen to be looking at - if you're mainly a landscape tog you'll tend to comment on those particular type of shots, unless it's something that makes you go 'Wow' at first glance - many, including me, just use the 'New Posts' to browse, so end up on your thread through chance rather than choice...

 

[surrealillusions]

The weather doesn't help either as people are spending less time in front of the screens at the moment, so don't take it personally

Damn british weather, we complain when its raining, we complain when its sunny, theres no pleasing us lot

There has always been a reluctance to comment on here alot of people feel uncomfortable saying anything negative and alot of people can't take the criticism even though it's often the negative comments that help you improve rather than endless reams of 'Good Shot' which is nice for the ego but not much use really!

EdinburghGary posted a thread "Call to Arms" about this a few weeks ago, it caused a bit of a stir. I think that most people don't like to say "bad" things about a shot and many do not consider themselves qualified enough to make a valued comment. Lots more are just plain lazy!

Anyone got a linkie to that thread?


Its nice to know someone is viewing your photos and taking some ideas, but without the replies, the post soon disappears into oblivion, never to be seen or heard of again, so very little people see it.

 

[Quaker]

I am by no means in a position to judge other peoples images but if I get time I will leave comments. I will say how I see the photo, I must emphasize that my comments should be seen as coming from someone just looking at a photo rather than an experienced photographer.

 

[surrealillusions]

it may just be that you are like me perhaps in between the very bad and the very good in which case it is often difficult to create a short, but appropriate replies to posts.

Most likely.

My own reaction to this situation is OH WELL my next post will gain better response because it will be a more dramatic and thought inspiring shot.
KEEP ON CLICKING.

I wont give up, not yet anyway. I still like taking photos.

This topic will properly create your record for replies.

That is highly probable

I am by no means in a position to judge other peoples images but if I get time I will leave comments. I will say how I see the photo, I must emphasize that my comments should be seen as coming from someone just looking at a photo rather than an experienced photographer.

Every comment helps, every perspective helps in improvement, be it from a professional point of view or a viewing point of view.

 

[Tyke Tiler]

I could be way of the mark here but when I post an image that has notable views but it doesn't get any comments, I automatically assume that it wasn't up to scratch and I need to go out and try again Or maybe its just a little 'middle of the road' and inspires a very ambivalent reaction in the viewer? :shrug:

I understand that it's much more helpful to receive a comment which contains an opinion on why the photo may not work and also a suggestion(s) to improve it but some folk feel quite uncomfortable offering criticism.

Criticism in itself requires a little skill and some folk don't feel they are up to it.

I think that's fair enough really. :shrug:

 

[DiddyDave]

Just had a look at this one to see if I can answer your query...

thought id post in mine before the flood arrives

And no, they aren't rubbish. Exposure is ok, focus is ok, there's a bit of 'art' with the odd angles which is good to see

Personally though, I find all motorsport shots as dull as dishwater, so I don't post simply as there's nothing to say - in fact, I rarely even look at them

So no - your shots aren't bad as such, but they are very much the same as most others would have shot from the same place & same day, and this is probably part of my reason for finding this subject so boring

Perhaps if you try to look for new angles at these events? Shoot closer/detail shots (ok lens and distance may be a problem there); shoot the crowd for some trackside 'street'; shoot very slow shutter speeds for loads of arty blur to increase the sense of speed; add some motion blur in PP for the same (but not as good); psuedo HDR some; do something to help differentiate your shots & photography from all the others who have exactly the same images

Or just feel free to ignore this post entirely

DD

 

[Cobra]

I think a lot to do with it is if it's 'your thing,' that you happen to be looking at - if you're mainly a landscape tog you'll tend to comment on those particular type of shots, unless it's something that makes you go 'Wow' at first glance - many, including me, just use the 'New Posts' to browse, so end up on your thread through chance rather than choice...

I think thats a pretty fair assessment

Anyone got a linkie to that thread?

Clicky wotsit

 

[surrealillusions]

Perhaps if you try to look for new angles at these events? Shoot closer/detail shots (ok lens and distance may be a problem there); shoot the crowd for some trackside 'street'; shoot very slow shutter speeds for loads of arty blur to increase the sense of speed; add some motion blur in PP for the same (but not as good); psuedo HDR some; do something to help differentiate your shots & photography from all the others who have exactly the same images

Or just feel free to ignore this post entirely

DD

Thanks, I wont ignore it as thats the sort of comment i'm after. I do try to get different angles, but theres only so many angles to take photos of racing cars at, and i do try to post the ones that would be different from anyone elses rather than the usual ones.

I will bear in mind the other stuff like the shutter speeds and some of the other stuff like HDR and all that. Will try it out at a track day or something.

 

[CrazyJay]

I have to confess, I often look but don't pass comment. I don't like to echo what others have already said, so unless I have something new to say I tend to remain quiet.

Perhaps I will try to make more of an effort in future, and not worry to much if I just re-state what soembody else has said.

 

[Tyke Tiler]

Personally though, I find all motorsport shots as dull as dishwater, so I don't post simply as there's nothing to say - in fact, I rarely even look at them.

Aha, penny drops.

I'm in the same boat I'm afraid so I my opinion on motorsport is of no real value to anyone.

T.

 

[captures.in.time]

I always find people coment more if you are asking for help with a photo... If you post pics you know are good and everyone on here likes them you will get the odd good shot comment... but you knew that anyway so really all you are after is praise to bost confidence... which we all need...

But I find if you post asking a specific question or quering your set up process etc... coments come flooding in... as people can talk about stuff they know about or will have an opinion if you bring the queerie up initially... Try that... it worked for me! Not that i've posted a pic thread for ages!

 

[Flash In The Pan]

I could be way of the mark here but when I post an image that has notable views but it doesn't get any comments, I automatically assume that it wasn't up to scratch and I need to go out and try again Or maybe its just a little 'middle of the road' and inspires a very ambivalent reaction in the viewer? :shrug:

When was the last time that happened though?

 

[DiddyDave]

Thanks, I wont ignore it as thats the sort of comment i'm after. I do try to get different angles, but theres only so many angles to take photos of racing cars at, and i do try to post the ones that would be different from anyone elses rather than the usual ones.

I will bear in mind the other stuff like the shutter speeds and some of the other stuff like HDR and all that. Will try it out at a track day or something.

Glad it was taken as a useful post then

I think you've chosen a really hard subject to do something different with due in part to spatial restrictions (you can't lie on the floor at the edge of the track with a wide angle & Speedlights for some silly reason ); and you don't have great access to them either even when parked

I think it's comparable to going to several parts of the Lake District and only being allowed to stand in a few chosen places & with restricted lenses too - anything so restrictive is going to be hard to stamp any individuality on

Good luck though

DD

 

[Tokkelossi]

i would like to comment but im ignoring you all

 

[Uneducated_Rick]

Let's not overlook the obvious that a lot of views come from guests rather than members, so they cannot comment.

Right now there's "261 members and 158 guests" so at most you'd be getting 60% of viewers replying, that's assuming they feel they can add anything constructive to the thread.

I often find my self unable to help other than to repeat what other people have said therefore I do not post

 

[cyclone]

you can't lie on the floor at the edge of the track with a wide angle & Speedlights for some silly reason );

It's a shame that's exactly what the camera companies do to produce marketing shots for new bodies.
Unfortunately hiring out a racetrack and a few cars with drivers is beyond most people in forum land.

 

[Tyke Tiler]

When was the last time that happened though?

Last week I think After posting, I agreed it was a 'nothing special' kind jobbie

I think you've chosen a really hard subject to do something different with due in part to spatial restrictions (you can't lie on the floor at the edge of the track with a wide angle & Speedlights for some silly reason ); and you don't have great access to them either even when parked

Neat way of putting it Dave

 

[Craikeybaby]

TBH I hardly look through the motorsports section now, unless it is a meeting I am interested in, as there are so many people posting up shots there now and a lot of them can get a bit samey. There's also a lot of "Good shot", "Nice movement" or "Picture X" comments that don't mean much.

Personally I'd rather have one or two decent crits than a page full of "Nice shots" etc.

 

[onikami]

I tend to find that whenever the established members here post pics, they are guaranteed comments. That Lukewooford bloke always gets comments on his pics for example. Along with the other notable "names" on here.

 

[ROFL2K9]

I tend to find that whenever the established members here post pics, they are guaranteed comments. That Lukewooford bloke always gets comments on his pics for example. Along with the other notable "names" on here.

I think that's probably because there are some members on here that have posted consistently good images (more often that not, ones with a different style to most) and people tend to have an interest in their work and follow their posts, so are more likely to comment. :shrug:

 

[mid_gen]

I must admit I don't comment that much, usually because I'm either indifferent to the shot, or someone else has already said what I was thinking.

*Makes note to take time to comment*

I don't post often, but it is a good confidence booster when you get responses, if they're good, it spurs you on to do more, if they are constructive criticism, it spurs you on to get it right next time

 

[owain]

Just to give my ways of browsing this forum.. I make a comment on 95% of the photo i see and yes i do give/say my real opinion, i think i've only ever once said i don't like a photo

Happy Days, hey.

 

[Blue Eagle]

I think that most people don't like to say "bad" things about a shot and many do not consider themselves qualified enough to make a valued comment. Lots more are just plain lazy!

Yep, i dont think i've even posted my shots on here so i dont like to tell people that i dont like their shots or comment on what they could have done differently.

I usually just look, and usually they are already a number of comments so i dont feel the need to add my two cents if it would just be a repeat of what others have said.

 

[Tyke Tiler]

I tend to find that whenever the established members here post pics, they are guaranteed comments. That Lukewooford bloke always gets comments on his pics for example. Along with the other notable "names" on here.

Wouldn't you say that Luke Woodford maybe more 'established' and 'guaranteed' comments on his threads because he (like many others here) knocks out a decent photo? Luke also contributes his fair share too, helps others as others have helped him like.

In Addition, I think you'll find that these 'established' members are more than willing to help out wherever they can.

 

[Gandhi]

Hmmm,

From a personal point of view I feel perfectly qualified to stand in judgement of any photograph. It's not being egotistical, its just that my opinion is just as valid as anybody elses. The thing that stops me posting most of the time is you can pretty much guarantee that

a) the poster will take some comment the wrong way and go off on one or

b) they will then start an argument as to how you are wrong when they asked for your feedback int he first place!

this has happened so many times I've stopped offering advice to people.

The problem is, everybody wants a pat on the head and a 'yes you are doing it right' but nobody likes to be told that their images are rubbish. At that point, no matter what you offer in constructive feedback it tends to be taken the wrong way.

Finally, people would get more construcitve feedback if

a) they used the 'Indepth crit' sub-forum and

b) they actually asked peoples opinions about certain aspects of the shot rather than just sticking up a photo and asking what people think. If you are uncertain about the quality of a shot there must be something that is troubling you about it, so why not ask about that, rather than just going 'Massage my ego please'

I understand that not everybody is confident in what they do, and I dont have a problem with that and I was a noob at some point in the past too.

If you want to become a better photographer you simply cannot rely on peer review only to improve your style and technique, you MUST learn to criticise and appraise your own work!

 

[Dangleman]

Hmmm,

From a personal point of view I feel perfectly qualified to stand in judgement of any photograph. It's not being egotistical, its just that my opinion is just as valid as anybody elses. The thing that stops me posting most of the time is you can pretty much guarantee that

a) the poster will take some comment the wrong way and go off on one or

b) they will then start an argument as to how you are wrong when they asked for your feedback int he first place!

this has happened so many times I've stopped offering advice to people.

The problem is, everybody wants a pat on the head and a 'yes you are doing it right' but nobody likes to be told that their images are rubbish. At that point, no matter what you offer in constructive feedback it tends to be taken the wrong way.

Finally, people would get more construcitve feedback if

a) they used the 'Indepth crit' sub-forum and

b) they actually asked peoples opinions about certain aspects of the shot rather than just sticking up a photo and asking what people think. If you are uncertain about the quality of a shot there must be something that is troubling you about it, so why not ask about that, rather than just going 'Massage my ego please'

I understand that not everybody is confident in what they do, and I dont have a problem with that and I was a noob at some point in the past too.

If you want to become a better photographer you simply cannot rely on peer review only to improve your style and technique, you MUST learn to criticise and appraise your own work!

Exactly What he said.

Seriously though, I often don't post comments (long time lurker me) as some other bright spark does it for me

 

[owain]

I usually just look, and usually they are already a number of comments so i dont feel the need to add my two cents if it would just be a repeat of what others have said.

It's always nice to get as many nice comments on your photos as possible though, no matter if theirs posts already there! everyone likes to hear if they're images are good or not and if not why not (everyone needs to learn)

 

[Andysnap]

I agree with ROFL, there are certain people who's work I look out for because I really enjoy it. But I do try and comment as often as possible (can't access Flickr at work now so not as often as I would like) but some sections I very rarely venture into as they hold little interest.
I am however not adverse to bumping my own threads if I feel the image is a good one or, more importantly, if I need critique or help with an image which is nearly good. I also like people to like my stuff, I'm only nearly human after all.

Andy

 

[ROFL2K9]

Hmmm,

From a personal point of view I feel perfectly qualified to stand in judgement of any photograph. It's not being egotistical, its just that my opinion is just as valid as anybody elses.

Totally agree, afterall, you don't have to be a director to say whether you like a movie, or a chef to decide that the food you've just eaten is good... or a musician to comment on a music track.... etc....

 

[dionbee93]

I often find that, it maybe that not a lot of people look at the motorsport threads, but sometimes I post a thread and I get a load of views but only one or two comments like yourself.

I personally don't bother posting all my photos anymore as I find its not worth anything, because nobody tells you where and how you can improve.

Dion!