This is one area that as a class in first semester we didn't do enough of. So, this semester I'm going to try and 'right a wrong'. We'll try to do more of this, this semester...
When talking/writing about photographs / or critiquing photographs there are several things that you should take into consideration. Generally speaking, you would give your initial response to the image; move into technical observations; continue to artistic values; think about what it is that you like and dislike in the image; finally give some points for improvement that the photographer should take into consideration.
Generally, a Written Photo Critique will follow the stages outlined below.
What a good critique should be is a learning experience for both the photographer, and the person critiquing the work.
When talking/writing about photographs / or critiquing photographs there are several things that you should take into consideration. Generally speaking, you would give your initial response to the image; move into technical observations; continue to artistic values; think about what it is that you like and dislike in the image; finally give some points for improvement that the photographer should take into consideration.
Generally, a Written Photo Critique will follow the stages outlined below.
- What is you initial response to the image? Think about the big picture, and the little details. You'll also think about what it is that you like, and don't like about the image (but we'll keep this for later, right now it serves as a means to access the image).
- Explain your feelings or emotions that are generated by the image.
- Examine the technical qualities of the image. Consider the: Focus, Dust and Distractions, Colour, Lighting, and finally the overall exposure.
- Reflect on the artistic qualities exhibited in the image. Things to consider: Compostion, Subject Matter, and once again Colour (or Black and White).
- Explain what you feel the strong points of the photograph are; be specific in your examples.
- Elaborate on elements that could be worked on in the image to make it more effective.
- Finally, after you have worked through all of the above, summarize your general perception of the photograph. This is the point where you say whether or not you like the photo, and why. Be concise at this stage in the critique.
What a good critique should be is a learning experience for both the photographer, and the person critiquing the work.