Now, one of the reason why this thread was allowed to go on-even when it's plain to see the semblance of it degrading into a free for all-was the intention of this thread.
Swing, your intentions are noble perhaps but mis-guided. Even if it was meant to be taken with a pinch of salt, people are still bound to react to the simple fact that you want to ban something that is actually quite fundamental in CS.
More often than not, when a shot is posted to share with everyone else, I'm sure the thread started doesn't deliberately put his worst foot forward (although there might be exceptions).
There is nothing wrong at all in telling someone it's a good shot. It's a simple form of encouragement and at the same time, helps the photographer see how the public reacts to the shot he has posted.
That being said, there are also some shots that are really badly taken but we also need to understand all of us start from some where and a little encouragement goes a long way. But ultimately, whatever the feedback it, it's best left to the photographer to be the judge of the comments he receives.
Swing, I do agree with you that "Good shot" or will only go so far in helping the photographer. If you truly wish to help the photographer grow, then please, do contribute your comments of the shots that have been shared. This, I believe, will make a much bigger difference than lobbying for a ban of a particular comment.
May I please remind everyone to keep this thread civil because I have honestly no wish to close this thread has it definitely has it's merits but should the personal attacks and name calling continues, then all of us will know what's coming.
Thank you.
