Photo critique in forums-please read

[tazman0895]

I hope this doesn't come across as whining or something but I would like to put something out here and see what the response is like. I love the hobby of photography and I come to these forums to learn from the fantastic pool of knowledge that exists in these pages and the people who are here. I see a trend on my feed backs and the responses of others on other folks' photos. People tend to only comment on the good parts of a photo and leave out other ominous attributes that could be commented on and help the photographer.
I know my photos have mistakes but no one ever points these out. They will only say nice things which are inspirational but the parts that will help me and others grow are never mentioned. Other forums are open to praise and critique freely and I never see any hard feelings. I think that should be a part of life on these pages. The pad galleries seem to be the serious side of this web site and I would like it if people would be free with their comments, not to hurt, but to help. I think most people here agree the reason we have started a pad file is to help ourselves learn.
What are your feeling on this?

[coastalva]

PBasers only like to be kind . . .but now t hat we know you want BRUTAL . . .just kidding. I understand what you are saying, and I will, from time to time, leave a comment 'other than glowing' but only if I "know" the person and they know I am not trying to be a know-it-all putz =)
Also, I will typically leave a more personal comment and click "private" or leave a message in their in-box. If you are looking for true constructive criticism, you may have to ask for it outright . . .maybe on each picture . . .but be aware, some people's version of diplomacy and 'just telling like it is' may come across as flaming. I think a lot of people here try to avoid insulting another's art =)

just my opinion, of course

[halesr]

This issue has come up quite frequently at pbase. The problem is that not everyone wants open criticism and it is difficult to discern who does and who DOES NOT want that type of feedback.

There have been various suggestions such as marking your images you want more critical feedback on with an asterisk or some other symbol. I, like the previous poster, tend to make my suggestions for improvement or another approach in PRIVATE comments. Some of us have asked for a separate meta gallery much like the PAD where you only post images where you want open comments. You might even post your intention and let folks comment on how close you came to your intent. Or, even mention your unintended results.

The Artistic Questions forum also has been suggested as the place to post an image and get this type of feedback. So far, none of these suggestions or potential solutions have quite hit the mark.

BTW, you can hit me with your best shot. I can take it like a woman.--Rene

[johnwaine]

I think most Pbasers get enough stress and grieve in real life, and want to keep photography and Pbase as an outlet for relaxation and enjoyment.

That said, maybe you could create a gallery with a title like "Please critique these pictures" etc and certainly invite criticism each time you post.

Just a thought. Best of luck with your photography

[echotide]

i always post a "critique" of less glowing value in a private message and others have done that as well on mine - seems a little less out there