> -Original Message-
> From: PDML [mailto:pdml-boun...@pdml.net] On Behalf Of
> kwal...@peoplepc.com
>
> > This was written with regard to writing, but much of it applies to
> > photographers and their photography, as well.
>
> Agreed and it also applies to giving a critique of a photograph.
>
> A respected outdoor pro I'm friends with will always offer a
> way to improve an image when he's asked to critique it.
>
> Kenneth Waller
> http://www.pentaxphotogallery.com/kennethwaller
>
> ----- Original Message -
> From: "Darren Addy"
> Subject: OT: On Getting Criticism
>
>
> > This was written with regard to writing, but much of it applies to
> > photographers and their photography, as well.
> >
> > http://www.raphkoster.com/2013/10/14/on-getting-criticism/
> >
> > Have a think.
>
I think the wisest advice that I've seen about giving a critique comes from
the incomparable David Hurn in the book "On Looking At Photographs". If you
can find a copy, buy it - right after you've bought the even better "On
Being a Photographer".
The other side of this is probably a useful guide on how to seek advice or
criticism in such a way that you can make use of it, and not just have your
ego destroyed unnecessarily.
There's too much for me to type out as a quote, but here is some of what he
says.
[...] you will be asked to comment on a photographer's work. So what do you
say?
[...] the honest answer is [...] "I will happily look at your photographs
[...] do not expect me to comment because I do not know you or your
concerns". When finished, say "thankyou", with a smile.
If you are expected to give more [...] ask a lot of questions "When/where
was this taken?" "what do you intend to do with the photographs now that you
have made them" and so on.
[...]
Understand that whether or not you like the pictures is unhelpful and
irrelevant. Gauge the photographer's intent in making them [...] it might
require a question or two. There will be a discrepancy between the
photographs and the ideal images for the stated purpose. Offer guidance and
advice on how to get from _here_ to _there_. The advice might be technical
or concern issues of presentation or suggestions regarding publication /
exhibition. In this way your remarks will be practical, useful and relevant.
[...]
helping a photographer to achieve his / her goals is not a therapy session
between the ignorant. [...] avoid giving opinions based on _your_
prejudices, emotions or past history. These are not germane to the pictures
or relevant to anyone but yourself.
--
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