However is not that appreciation that which is being held as just 'yes man'-ing by some? Can we not appreciate or even write appreciation of an image or images without having to verbally dissect why we are enjoying them?
Ben,
Everyone must make their own way!
Each of us has our own level of comfort. What we do need is the courtesy of acknowledgment.
One person might just say thanks for sharing, another could be reminded of a similar work and yet another might add a suggestion of solving an issue. Yes, everyone takes risks, the posting photographer and the rest of us. But that is what makes for a community! We
trust each other to err and help each other by looking at possible approaches to building and appreciating images.
What we don't want is
just bland "Wow!"s or just long didactic essays. A mixture with mistakes is what makes things work. The great thing about a forum with active brains and a kind heart, is that things balance themselves out. If you must be harsh, as long as your motivation is right and you first give the positive, go ahead, describe what holds you back from full appreciation. Of course, check the prefix first and the photographer's introduction.
So I believe in a guided, self-balancing disorder! The photographer sets the rules by the prefix, provides an intro and then the rest of us respect those wishes. Often critique
is requested. When I see that, I look to the background of the photographer. A newbie has to be treated more carefully, an experienced photographer with great respect. I l aways try to consider that their clients might read what I write. Still one
can give feedback, even ask major confrontational questions.
If they are severe, do so privately so no one is embarrassed. The skill is in
framing one's opinion.
Back to our first common precepts:
The artists intent and his/her satisfaction make for the art to exist
Whether or not we "get it" does not alter that value! Art has been created already for the artist. What we discuss here in OPF is perhaps enhancing that and then taking the next step; going public! So, for others to likely buy or buy into that work, it has to reach and engage
some of us. To thus complete an "arc of communication" to
us, we have to know/feel enough. So where the image does not seem to work, either
- The work needs better introduction, context
- or the artist should review his/her work product/final presentation/target audience
This is where feedback can be fun, rewarding and helpful to us all.
The caveat is that most advice on the internet is of little hard value. So a photographer must always shield their own original intents from erosion by the rest of us. Still, in spite of this major warning against taking critique too seriously, there's a lot of great value in OPF's way of nurturing and giving honest feedback.
I know of a number of folk here who are earning a living in part because of reinforcement found here while having a lot of amusement and fun!
Asher