Dislaimer: This is my personal opinion. I'm speaking from my experience as a student and consultant in the architectural industry, and from my short time shooting architecture and interiors.
A few days ago, in one of the photography groups I'm in, there was a discussion on how to or how not to take part in a critique session. As always, there were different points of view from those giving and those seeking feedback on the work posted on the group. I weighed in on the discussion and gave my long-ish take on the matter, which is usually a divisive topic practically everywhere. My thoughts are the basis of my post today. --- First, some thoughts for those asking for critique: 1. When you post a photo, don't just say "comments please". Have an appropriate caption, like you'd do when submitting an image to a competition. Say what you wanted to achieve with the shot so that you may get clear and concise direction. If you can share a series of images from the shoot, even better! Give context. What's your end goal? What were you trying to achieve? It's easier for someone to guide you if you know the direction you wanted to go. If there was a brief, let guys know so they can help you achieve your objectives based on how they'd have handled the shot.
For an image like this, I'd have given info on the client's brief . That would then be the basis for them reviewing what I was going for in terms of the composition, time of day, lighting design and how I achieved that in post. Then I'd go ahead and as for feedback regarding what I did wrong and what I needed to correct moving forward.
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2. If you don't get feedback from the group, try reach out to someone privately and ask for their help, preferably someone who is well versed in that particular genre. Otherwise your image ends up getting lost in all the messages or posts in the group. If the first one is non-responsive, try another one. And another one. Initiative, please.
There are numerous avenues to get feedback on your images so be proactive. Having been at it for a few years now, I've had a few friends reach out to me in private a couple of times to get pointers on things architecture and interiors and I've helped out where I could. Do what it takes to get the knowledge and don't blame the forums or personalities for not giving you the feedback you want.
I sought a colleague's opinion on this image after editing and after their input, I muted the general contrast & colour spectrum which resulted in a natural-feeling final image.
--- 3. YouTube (basically, the internet) is your friend. Look at what other guys are doing and the methods they're using. Try it our a few times at first. Look at what the pros are doing and work towards that. Truth is, there are standards out there that you should be trying to get to and if you don't know them, you'll end up posting photos that don't get any feedback. At the end of the day, newbie or not, if you have no idea what a good or bad photo is, you are failing yourself, and you'll end up getting limited or no feedback which means you won't get to grow your skill level further. People don't want to be inundated with snapshots just because you're in a photography forum where sharing of work is highly encouraged.
This was achieved by purely following some YouTube tutorials.
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Finally, for those giving critique:
1. Just because you learnt the craft in a certain (military-type) way doesn't mean it was right, and that everyone should learn it that way. I hear a lot of "grow some thick skin" and "don't catch feelings" but those saying that are usually downright rude, inappropriate and uncouth in their talk. That, or they don't know how to critique in the first place.
We all know it's a harsh world out there so we don't need another harsh tone to add to that. Remember, there are many personalities in a group as well, so chill out.
2. Avoid getting personal.
Attack to the subject matter, not the personality. Pun intended.
Civility (I wanted to say kindness but that may not be apt here) will not diminish your worth in any way. It will not reduce the megapixel count on your recently-upgraded full frame camera.
Direct the younger ones with wisdom and tact, because we're all in the industry together, and we need each other in one way or another (unless they're the hard-head and know-it-all types of course, which is a character issue that needs mending first).
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So, if you're a newbie, take some time off sharing the photos and sink your teeth into some education.
Practice.
Learn.
Repeat.
Then, share what you know is a GOOD photo to begin with. I doubt you'll get little attention and guidance then.
A view of Moi Avenue and City Hall Way taken in 2018, at the second time of asking. First time was in 2016 and after making some adjustments in my shooting and editing techniques, I came went back and tried it afresh. I hope to get back there and nail an even better result.
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But then again, to each his own at the end of the day.
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For now, adios!
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