are my photos that rubbish that they need ignoring?

Gandhi said:
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!
Click to expand...

Extremely valuable advice. :clap:
 
I'm in the "I don't think I'm qualified" camp where it comes to criticism, although I will say if I like a particular entry. In terms of feedback I have had generally positive responses along the lines of, "Not much interest but if you do....... or Good colour but try making x the pocal point instead of y.... etc." which I have found a great benefit.
I haven't posted up much for crit, because I already know most of what I take is wrong for one reason or another.
 
Tomas Whitehouse said:
Extremely valuable advice. :clap:
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Seconded. I used to say this myself, but it really bugs me when people say "i am not qualified to comment on so-n-so's pics". [PLEASE DON'T TRY TO BYPASS THE SWEAR FILTER]! You know what you like, you must have an opinion of some sort, so say it. Comment on other pics, and people will comment on yours, and you'll also learn as people will comment on your comment and it'll make you think about what you commented in the first place.

Does that make sense?

Oh, and there's a motorsport section?
 
I'll speak my mind even I'f I'm wrong, I know the value of feedback, I also spend most of my time here checking the "unanswered posts" tab so its always empty!
 
Mike Hoyer said:
What you need to do is, when somebody does reply, is immediately reply back to them, thus guarenteeing your post stays at the top!
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Yes, you can bump your post up if you say thank you all the time ;) :lol:
 
I've had this issue quite a lot as well. I think the standards here are incredible (especially in the macro section) but I keep plodding on, I've produced about one cracker (not bad in 9000 shutters lol) and that had plenty of comment :)
 
I would only comment on a subject in which I have an interest... Motor sport is just not my thing, and I have not previously had a look at your work.

So now I have made a point of checking your site. ... verdict... Looks the equal of most other such work by other specialists.

Carry on the good work, and do not worry about what others may or may not think. The only valuable insights will probably come from other like minded specialists
 
Like many before have said if my photos don't attract comment I assume they're *****. That's cool.

However my main reason for joining here was to get feedback, personally I'd love negative feedback I don't see how else one can improve without it.

I'm not going to cry if you tell me my pics are bad.

However if you do criticise it think it's worth saying why you feel that way and offer some sort of advice.

Even if you aren't technically qualified I think most people can enjoy a good picture - surely the subject in terms of the picture itself should have some baring on matters?

My last go at doing some sunsets I wasn't expecting a huge amount of feedback mainly because there seems to be a million other sunsets to look at and too many piccies of the same is going to limit what people say I guess. For the record thought Edinburgh Gary's comments were well made and this makes me think what to do next time round!
 
onikami said:
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.
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:shrug::thinking: I've been here 2 years nearly and still get 1 or 2 comments only......but then mine can be pretty pap :lol:
 
I spent a few hours looking through the photo's on the site yesterday and was totaly awe struck. I only joined a couple of days ago so intended to lurk for a long time tiill i find my feet. Im hoping to get into photography a lot more and dont feel comfortable commenting on someones work especialy with all the technical speak that i don't honestly understand (yet). But if you want an "oooh nice colours" etc. I'm your man. I did actualy comment on one motocross one that was a class motion blur, imo
 
Tomas Whitehouse said:
lol: I'd much rather be considered an excessive 'thanker' than a rude *anker :lol:
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:lol:

DonnaM said:
Gary's Call to Arms
http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=129082
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:thumbs: thanks, had a read of that earlier.

Terrywoodenpic said:
I would only comment on a subject in which I have an interest... Motor sport is just not my thing, and I have not previously had a look at your work.

So now I have made a point of checking your site. ... verdict... Looks the equal of most other such work by other specialists.

Carry on the good work, and do not worry about what others may or may not think. The only valuable insights will probably come from other like minded specialists
Click to expand...

Thanks :)

Gandhi said:
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!
Click to expand...

:thumbs: Some good advice there actually, some of it i did not know in that sense till you wrote it.

I will actually use the in-depth critique forum more, but i dont mind they're rubbish, i do say that to myself sometimes when looking through the photos, but then i dont post them. I try to post the better ones.
 
What a thread!! :D

I for one never see a shortage of comments on my threads, ever. I am always happy with the feedback (good or bad!), and I will ALWAYS respect your opinion and I will always thank you for it. I also make a very obvious decision in my opening posts of any thread, to state that no matter how negative your crit is, or how damning your thoughts may be, I am more than happy to hear and take them on board.

Here is my take on how to get lots of comments, feel free to shoot it down if its wrong :)

1: If you want comments, get used to commenting!!! Do not expect any community to be completely one sided. If you NEVER EVER comment on the work of others, then fair game - you deserve no comments if I am being honest.

2: Never, EVER in a million years, take the strop with well intended feedback. That person has taken the time, to HELP you, and to make YOU a better photographer. THe one way ticket to a lonely photo thread, is to spit and huff when you don't like what is said.

3: Try your hardest to share your aspirations, your photographic goals, struggles, your strengths and your weaknesses. Be as open as you can about your own perception of your ability, and let people understand how YOU actually think and what makes you tick. Try and help people basically get into your mindset, and they can then fine tune their advice and comments massively.

4: Always, ALWAYS say thank you. Try your hardest to respond to each commenter individually. It's nice to be acknowledged, especially when you have tried to give well thought out advice.

5: This is the tricky one. I guess, try and up your game each and every time you go out. Please understand my use of the word "try". If you are an "average" photographer, and I personally feel I fit into this category, then by being average, it is important to understand people may not want to comment as they are not "feeling the shot" so to speak. I think the only way to solve this is to aspire to be "great" or even "perfect". Surely if you try hard enough, and put the effort in, you will leave "average" behind and eventually start to impress.

I think this is a good thread, and I also think combined with the "Call to Arms" thread, it should be used a jolt to all members to remind them that we all need encouredgment, hints, tips and feedback. And remember, as BT said...."It's GOOD to talk" :D

Now go, unanswered posts need YOU!!!

Gary.
 
Gandhi said:
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
Click to expand...
I agree. Some less thick skinned individual may see comments like
68lbs said:
it really bugs me when people say "i am not qualified to comment on so-n-so's pics". [PLEASE DON'T TRY TO BYPASS THE SWEAR FILTER]! You know what you like, you must have an opinion of some sort, so say it.
Click to expand...
and take real offence.
Fortunately I'm very thick skinned and will qualify my "not qualified" status.
I don't personally feel I know enough to comment on the technical aspects of photographs. I do know what I like, but I think people are looking for more in depth comments than "ohh that's nice dearie," or similar.
In the past I have appreciated the technical assistance given when posting my work, and hope it continues.
I have looked at some photos on here and thought "wow!" then read the comments posted re. technical stuff and have been blown away when the adjusted shot has been posted.
hide.gif
and awaits pelters.
 
Gandhi said:
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!
Click to expand...


some excellent points there
 
I fully agree with 68lbs ... and this was going to be my response before I got the end thread.

Those who say they are "not qualified" are using that as a cop out. Very few of us on TP will be fully qualified to give full technical feedback. When I post up shots I am looking for opinions from those who are "not qualified". I am NOT looking just for comments of "that's nice" etc. What is of more use to me is the comment from casual viewers with reasons why a particular photo doesn't work.

I am happy with the responses I have had on my posts and this is due to those who have bothered to make a comment. One of my most recent post took a while to get going but once it was picked up a great deal of very useful help was forthcoming.

I would like to give a big "Thankyou" to all those posters and I tend to make an extra effort to those who have posted views either for or against some I have also added as contacts.

In answer to the OP don't take it personally if you don't get responses but take a critical look at what you have posted up and ask yourself "Is this the same as others have posted before?" If so this will probably be the reason.


Paul
 
3: Try your hardest to share your aspirations, your photographic goals, struggles, your strengths and your weaknesses. Be as open as you can about your own perception of your ability, and let people understand how YOU actually think and what makes you tick. Try and help people basically get into your mindset, and they can then fine tune their advice and comments massively.
Click to expand...

As Gary says above.

Opening lines, like "here's a few I took today" offer no clue as to what C+C someone is looking for.

Post pictures and be specific about what you were trying to acheive, that way the crit will either say, yes well done you've acheived that goal, or enable the subsequent poster to comment on possible improvements.

And to the OP I never look at transport as it doesn't interest me.
 
Seems very few who have commented in this thread look at transport/motorsport.

Perhaps some motorsporty types need to contribute in here?
 
Tazmaniandevil said:
Fortunately I'm very thick skinned
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Sorry, I'm from the school of thought that if you're not thick skinned, what the heck are you doing posting pics in an open forum. :D

FWIW... I appreciate even a simple thumbs up/down when I post. At least it tells me whether people like my pics. And I can then start to analyse why/whynot if I choose to :)
 
When I post photo's and ask for C&C it is usually because I simply don't know what could make the photo better and would like peoples opinions. I often post threads simply saying here are some photos, comments please.

I quite often struggle to see what is wrong with a photo until someone else comes and says something like "why is there a fat bloke pulling faces in the background" or "why is that persons face green" etc...
 
Creed said:
3

I quite often struggle to see what is wrong with a photo until someone else comes and says something like "why is there a fat bloke pulling faces in the background" or "why is that persons face green" etc...
Click to expand...

How often does someone post a picture of the Labour front bench though? :naughty:
 
It's the Motorsport section that brought me here.
But, it's a funny section, can't think of a better word for it sorry. I have found Motorsports photo's to be pretty unpopular on the net so I was chuffed to find a place with a busy section, but I went off it pretty quick.

I don't comment on many photo's and don't post too many either, makes me wonder where my 1000+ posts came from :lol: but it's mainly my 365 (and other peoples).

I don't know why I don't leave too many comments, think I'm shy, or maybe a bit of a voyeur?
 
i have the same problem, i know i am not a full established person on this site yet but to improve my pictures i feel that i need to constructive criticism to try and bring on my photography and then when i have improved and have learned i will then be able to help out people that are like me. Just my personal opinion it was not intended to offend anyone.
 
Renclio said:
i have the same problem, i know i am not a full established person on this site yet but to improve my pictures i feel that i need to constructive criticism to try and bring on my photography and then when i have improved and have learned i will then be able to help out people that are like me. Just my personal opinion it was not intended to offend anyone.
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Are you also talking with regards to posting photos to Motorsport?

Gary.
 
Renclio said:
i have the same problem, i know i am not a full established person on this site yet but to improve my pictures i feel that i need to constructive criticism to try and bring on my photography and then when i have improved and have learned i will then be able to help out people that are like me. Just my personal opinion it was not intended to offend anyone.
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:thumbsdown: Very selfish point of view IMO ...just because you are starting out does not mean you do not have an opinion to share ..... although a thumbs up is nice taking the Simon Cowle approach is sometimes needed.
 
Just realised the OP does alot of motorsport photography in which case I cery rarely comment unless it's something really special as they all look the same to me. I'm not trying to say it's easy or anything I know it's not it just doesn't intrest me very much I will however comment if I see something that really stands out as a different take on a common subject. The only other thing I will say is alot of motorsports threads include lots and lots of photos and I'm much more inclined to comment if the tog only puts up one or two images as it's easier to take in.

Just to be fare it's not just motorsport I treat like this I do the same with the low flying jets threads, I totally admire the skill and dedication I just find yet another picture of a low flying tornado a little tedious. I do however regularly comment on exceptional images or unusual takes on an often shot subject.
 
it was not intended to offend anyone, i just feel that in like many internet clubs it pays to know some1 in the club already or attend meets or generally post alot and get yourself noticed. I am just new to photography and i know there is alot of very amazing photographers on here who would be very good teachers to someone like me. Maybe a newbie section should be created for people to show off there very first photos or something and where more experienced photographers can voice there opinion and show the next step to take. I have posted a few of my photos in the criticism section and have had 1 reply which i found rather dissapointing. I am just asking people who are more experienced to have a more active role in improving newbies to photographies skills.

Sorry... rant over
 
Renclio said:
it was not intended to offend anyone, i just feel that in like many internet clubs it pays to know some1 in the club already or attend meets or generally post alot and get yourself noticed. I am just new to photography and i know there is alot of very amazing photographers on here who would be very good teachers to someone like me. Maybe a newbie section should be created for people to show off there very first photos or something and where more experienced photographers can voice there opinion and show the next step to take. I have posted a few of my photos in the criticism section and have had 1 reply which i found rather dissapointing. I am just asking people who are more experienced to have a more active role in improving newbies to photographies skills.

Sorry... rant over
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I could only find one of your photos, of a light. Anyway, happy to help out if you ever post a photo. I can't promise to spot your thread, but drop a PM.

Where do you live in Scotland?

Gary.
 
Renclio said:
I have posted a few of my photos in the criticism section...
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Not meaning to single out anyone and waggle my finger. But... :lol:

One pic in the in-depth critique section isn't much. Get posting weekly in the more general sections. Throw in a few comments on others pics, and people will start to comment on yours. :)
 
Renclio said:
it was not intended to offend anyone, i just feel that in like many internet clubs it pays to know some1 in the club already or attend meets or generally post alot and get yourself noticed. I am just new to photography and i know there is alot of very amazing photographers on here who would be very good teachers to someone like me. Maybe a newbie section should be created for people to show off there very first photos or something and where more experienced photographers can voice there opinion and show the next step to take. I have posted a few of my photos in the criticism section and have had 1 reply which i found rather dissapointing. I am just asking people who are more experienced to have a more active role in improving newbies to photographies skills.

Sorry... rant over
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I just think it wrong to expect help and assistance if you are not going to do the same for others. Opinions have nothing to do with technical ability they are down to an individuals personal taste. You will never please everyone all the time, just make sure it is "constructive" and not "obstructive"

Paul
 
EdinburghGary said:
I could only find one of your photos, of a light. Anyway, happy to help out if you ever post a photo. I can't promise to spot your thread, but drop a PM.

Where do you live in Scotland?

Gary.
Click to expand...

I also have another photo in the anoymous section aswell, not sure what the rules are on telling people what one it is though.

I live in west calder and i also attend herriott watt university at ricerton.

Callum.
 
cyclone said:
Little harsh?
There's nowt wrong with learning the local etiquette before you jump in with both feet.
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Not harsh at all ... and I'm am only using Renclio's example to highlight that he should not be ashamed of voicing a personal opinion ..... I think anyone posting a comment should make sure they are not saying anything they would not say face to face.
 
Hammerhead64 said:
I just think it wrong to expect help and assistance if you are not going to do the same for others. Opinions have nothing to do with technical ability they are down to an individuals personal taste. You will never please everyone all the time, just make sure it is "constructive" and not "obstructive"

Paul
Click to expand...

Good point. No doubt some people just put up pictures as a "look at me" type thing, and want lots of "great pictures" "awesome work" etc. etc. etc. replies, then never comment on anyone elses. I don't post much anymore for a number of reasons.
 
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