Standards for critique in nature forum

[Jeff]

Just a personal observation. Could the nature moderator(s) come up with certain standards for critique in the nature forum?

I noticed that most of the comments given are very polite, such that very few costructive advices are offered to improve on one's technique. Perhaps we could start with a grading system that contain some of the following criterias:

1) Composition
2) Colors
3) Innovation/presentation
4) Flash exposures, if any
5) Perch/BG

Just something along that line so that the poster knows what to look out for in future shots.

For example, saying a shot is nice only conveys a sense of pleasantness and nothing else.

 

[Jay]

Just a personal observation. Could the nature moderator(s) come up with certain standards for critique in the nature forum?

I noticed that most of the comments given are very polite, such that very few costructive advices are offered to improve on one's technique. Perhaps we could start with a grading system that contain some of the following criterias:

1) Composition
2) Colors
3) Innovation/presentation
4) Flash exposures, if any
5) Perch/BG

Just something along that line so that the poster knows what to look out for in future shots.

For example, saying a shot is nice only conveys a sense of pleasantness and nothing else.

Do agree that some form of control to be instituted. There are very good shots posted but yet some reviewers gave rating of 1, which IMO are totally unjustifiable, without giving some reasons / comments. I dont know whether they do know how to appreciate a shot or simply shooting down the rating.
Perhaps making commentary a requirement should a rating 5 and below be given. At least the poster could learn where he/she went wrong.

 

[erwinx]

The poster of a pic must also be willing to post the shot's technical information as well as the objective or purpose of the photograph. He should also specifically state that he wants critique.

Self-critique/self-editing is also important. For example, if your shot is out of focus, why bother posting it for critique in the first place? You should discard the shot and go back and reshoot it, this time in focus.

Of course, if you just want to share a shot with others because you want to express your joy of nature thats fine too. I share lots of bad record shots all the time

www.naturephotosociety.org.sg archives the photos of its previous competition winners/ Picture of the month which are a good starting point for self-critique.

 

[AReality]

When people ask for comments, they most probably want compliments, not criticism.
This can be true especially when the poster is a friend. Imagine a scenerio when he decides that he doesn't want to go out bird shooting with you anymore just because u said his shots are ordinary...

So which one is easier?
"Nice pics!", or "That looks orfinary.".