I've noticed two trends in this forum of late and wanted to bring them to everyone's attention. First, I'm seeing over 20 "hits" on a single image without a single person leaving a comment. I know we've had a lot of new people join in the past six months and I'm assuming they are a bit nervous about commenting but that's what the forums are for! Anyone viewing an image on any of the critiquing forums should be able to leave a comment or question for the person who created the image, regardless of your skill level. Ask about the lighting. Ask about the set up. Give a critique of their composition, lens choice, shutter speed, aperture, etc. By looking at how someone created their image you will very quickly learn how to do a better job with YOUR camera! Don't be afraid to comment!
The only comment we NEVER want to hear is "Great shot!" :(:(:( (Unless, of course, you follow that up with a detailed critique of WHY you think it is an exceptional image.) When commenting, try to find something you think the artist/photographer did really well ("I like where you placed the flower in the frame" or "I love the detail you captured on his wings.") Then, try to find something you think they could improve upon (as most images are not perfect!) Perhaps, "The image feels a little dark" or "stopping down on the aperture would have given you better details in the entire flower" are good examples. Don't be afraid of being technical and don't worry if all you have to express is an opinion. We all know why we do or don't like something about an image and letting the artist/photographer know that helps them better compose images in the future!
The other issue I wish to bring up is a reminder of the BPN guideline that if you have the time to post a new image you should also take the time to COMMENT on at least 3-5 other images. In other words, don't just post, run off to take some more photographs, post again, run off to process some more images...you get the picture (now there's a pun for ya!) This is an idea EXCHANGE. Be involved in your images and those of your co-contributors! Look for images that don't have a lot of comments on them and offer some helpful suggestions. It will make the experience of these forums so much more educational if we all get involved and speak up!
And please don't worry if your english is a little rusty...we'll do our best to understand and help you, too! Now jump in everyone! Tell me what you think!






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