======================================================= -> This is The 'SPORRS' Mailing List -> Info File: http://www.anet-stl.com/acphotog/sporrs/infosporrs.htm -> Note: Remember to include your name in each list post or reply. -> Please delete all unnecessary quoted text from the original message! =======================================================
The SOTM feature would be interesting if more people would vote so that we could see what appeals to the general audience. Unfortunately, I do not think 4 to 6 votes can be the deciding factor for 130 members. Perhaps the SOTM should not be considered a win, rather a selection. I would like to hear why someone selected the shot (composition, subject,...) or why someone did not select the shot. I believe we could view it as the shot that appealed to the majority of the subscriber's, not the "winner." Perhaps Dave should make it manditory that all members participate.....it is not like you have to write a book....an email takes a matter of seconds and you only have to list the shot (about 10 characters). I agree with Greg Anderson's comments on learning and discussing more about the particular shots diplayed on SPORRS. I would be interested in knowing when the shot was taken (ie time of year, day, exact time)....and if it was a planned shot or a shot that was simply "stumbled upon." A lot of my photography is based on shots that I have seen following a line and then waiting out good light, the train, etc. If it was planned, how long did it take to get it right or what was done to make sure it was right? There are also a number of times that I happen to stumble into nice location while chasing a train (mostly in areas I am not familiar with). It would be interesting to know how each particular shot happened on the SPORRS page. In discussing images...I find that both criticism and praise are of value. I think everyone develops their own style, at the same time, I believe that other's opinions can help to fine tune someone's photography. In my opinion, an image posted on SPORRS should be open season for comments. Perhaps someone could offer how they would have shot the particular photograph or if they would have shot it at all......maybe someone could offer ideas on how to improve the shot. I think we should all be able to handle criticism as well as praise. It is just a matter of someone breaking the ice. I can say from experience that I am glad a few bold people offered such comments on my photography and I have taken them constructively and used them to further develop my style. I am constantly trying to improve. I do not know how many people have scanners....but I think this would be a great topic to discuss. I am always interested in learning better ways, tricks, shortcuts, etc. I am amazed at the sharpness of some of the other images on SPORRS. I have tried over and over and read quite a few books, and I still can not seem to acheive optimum sharpness for this particular image size/resolution. It would also be nice to know what type of scanners are used. I know an idea was kicked around about scanning the same slide by different people with the same or different scanners to see what the results were. I think this is a great idea for learning as well as comparing particular scanners. I think the SPORRS site has great potential....we each just need to take a few minutes of our time and participate. Todd Novak Medina, OH ======================================================= -> SPORRS: 'Serious Photographers Of Railroad Related Subjects' -> Web Site: http://www.anet-stl.com/acphotog/sporrs/ -> Message © 1998 SPORRS® - All Rights Reserved =======================================================
