And this is the only place I can do it because there's a comfort and "safety" in anonymity. My husband has enough to worry and stress about, I don't want to burden him with this.
Anyway, recently my sister and brother-in-law were visiting. I hadn't seen them in a really long time and so invited them over. I was hopeful that we could swap stories about what we each had been up to, but they didn't seem interested in anything I was doing in my life, even though I asked them questions about theirs. Off to a bad start, eh? At least, my mood was...
A little background: My sister (younger by 3 years) isn't overly generous with compliments. That's putting it nicely. It's probably a sibling competition, even though I don't usually have a problem complimenting her. I don't know. My brother-in-law is usually very sweet and complimentary. Not that I'm ever expecting any, so it comes as a nice surprise.
Well, long story short, when they were visiting, the subject of my photo project came up. I know that I'm not very good and as much as I have learned so far, I still have a LOT to learn before I can really be proud of my work. But, I'm trying. I committed to this project and I'm making an effort. I did it to better myself, both as an artist and as a person. I did it to open my eyes to the world and see it from another angle. A pretty common reason, I think.
I look at the popular page every day to see what works (general opinion) in a photo. I sometimes copy. I sometimes get inspired to do my own take on a popular photo. But, I would never ever assume that I'm an "expert" or even very good. I am simply practicing. And what's wrong with that?
Well, my brother-in-law offered the constructive criticism that my photos have improved over the course of 6 months (one of my goals) and that my composition has gotten more interesting. Okay, great. Thanks. But, then he said that my photos in general are pretty boring, that I take too many photos of inanimate objects that that I should consider taking more photos of people.
Well! First of all, I would love to take more photos of people, but for whatever reason, I haven't done many so far. I don't think there's anything wrong with using an inanimate object as a photo subject, do you? Is that "against the rules?" I know it was just his opinion, but it still stung. It made me feel like I was "wrong," and not a "real photographer." Which, of course, I'm not. But even if he doesn't take my project seriously, I DO. I told him that I take so many photos of objects because I'm PRACTICING. That I like to take photos of EVERYTHING I see that I find interesting, and some days are off days. That's life. I know I sound defensive here, but I was hurt.
I'm not claiming to be anyone spectacular. I'm just doing this for me. To better myself and my abilities. I don't think any of my pictures are "wrong" and I hate it when people minimize someone else's efforts just because they are not personally impressed by them.
So, has anyone else encountered this kind of "unhelpful" criticism? If so, how did you handle it? What did you do? How did you feel? Has anyone else's work and efforts been dismissed? Or is it just me... =*(
I personally haven't encountered that (or didn't pay attention and realize it, if I have), but I would like to tell you that I have enjoyed your progress since following you, and definitely think your photos are not boring! In fact, I find the rather personal nature of them refreshing and endearing, like a peek into your real life. I don't think you need to take more photos of people just because that's his opinion. I think you are one of the people on here that is so positive and truly trying to learn, and not doing this for compliments and/or recognition to be the most brilliant photographer ever (not saying you aren't brilliant, just that it seems that you're not out to impress anyone as your goal), and you should keep on in your own groove by shooting whatever you fancy! It is working out well for you!
I dont think it matters who you are, or how good you are. Your work is always going to be liked and disliked by people. How they interpret it has nothing to do with you and everything to do with how they see the world/art etc. Take it on the chin, dont do this for anyone else, do it for yourself, and if you like taking still life photo's then keep doing it.
IGNOR your brother-in-law! He doesn't know what he's talking about. I just went through about 20 of your photos and I am now following you!!! You do great work! You are very creative and your pics are really great! :0)
Even if your brother-in-law was a professional photographer (which I'm assuming he isn't) I would disregard his advice. Who's to say what makes a shot interesting? It's different for everyone - so shoot what you love to shoot and what makes you happy for now, and if you choose to venture from your comfort zone, do it because you're excited about it, not because someone says you should. If this isn't a career choice for you, then it's a hobby, and hobbies are supposed to be fun. Just keep having fun!
I don't think it is necessarily unhelpful crit (though I wasn't there for the delivery of it). Subject choice is a rather subjective thing, and you can certainly improve your technical skills by using objects as your subjects, so if that is your goal right now there is nothing wrong with it. Always consider the advice-giver behind the advice given - Are they a photographer? Do they have an art/design background? What do they like and not like (personal tastes)? If I show a bunch of baseball photos to a prospective wedding client they probably won't much care for my work, no matter how good it might be.
Constructive crit isn't just about what someone likes - don't forget that. And constructive crit doesn't always include what someone likes, either. What it does include, is a suggestion or suggestions of things you could try that may (or may not) help you improve. And that's the value of crit - taking it for what it is, and making your own decisions about what to take on board and what to ignore. Of course, ignoring crit can be perilous, but deciding to ignore it after consideration and weighing up its usefulness (and the expertise or lack thereof of the giver) is just as important as the advice you accept and seek to implement.
So, if your BIL finds your photos boring, does that matter? Is he trying to help you, but not understanding your goals? Do you want to take photos that appeal to a wider audience? I think you will find that there is value in his crit of your work, but it may not be connected to what you are currently trying to achieve.
Lastly, if you ever do want actual, honest crit, be prepared for it. It will knock you around if you take it as a crit of yourself rather than as a crit of your work. But if you truly want to improve, it is the quickest way to work out how.
So, toughen up! But keep your chin up, too - if advice is not helpful just move on, and don't let it get to you. If someone doesn't like your subject matter it speaks more about them than about you, but that's not to say it's not worth taking note.
@laceyjogautreau Thank you so so so much! Your reply made me cry, ha ha! I will keep doing it for myself. And I always appreciate your lovely, thoughtful comments on my photos.
@triptych_angel Thank you, your advice is very rational and just what I needed to hear. You're right, there are always going to be people who don't like you or what you do, no matter how popular you are. It's just harder to hear it from family -- I think.
@cjwhite Thank you so much!! And thanks for following me! Believe it or not, I did not start this discussion to get noticed or to dig for compliments. I was just literally exploding with emotion and worried that if I didn't create an outlet, I would explode at my husband when he gets home from work. Not fair to him and not the kind of wife I want to be. I feel much much better now that I got it off my chest.
Also, I was really just wondering if anybody else had dealt with that kind of criticism and how they handled it. I guess the answer is just thick skin, really. *sigh.*
I would consider the source of this criticism. Is your brother-in-law creative? Has he ever tried to develop an artistic skill? Does he have photos on the walls of his house that you like (besides family members).? Or, is he like many people who don't pay attention to art and use their free time getting passively entertained? It sucks getting rude comments, but I would try to not worry about people who basically may not have any taste for art or photography. Find people you admire and seek out their honest opinions. And yes, do it for yourself!
I have had plenty of input like you have received! The way I see it is that people can walk into a room and look at several different photo's. They will be drawn to whatever is pleasing to their eye- whatever photo's call to them. Some will be drawn to your work, others will not. That doesn't mean your work is not good, because it is!!
You have to follow "your" heart... What speaks to you!!!! I have had several people "suggest" that I was choosing the wrong photo to post. It's funny, because those are the ones that made it to the popular page! Listen to your heart! Oh, and btw, family members can be the worst when it comes to support!!
@pwallis So well put, thank you. Yes, it's a hobby for now. But someday I would like to contribute to iStock. But even then, I still want to have fun. You should always find a way to enjoy what you do! =D Oh, and yes, I showed him that one. He said it was a good effort, but I think he just thought it was okay.
@jinximages That is very helpful, thank you. Yes, I agree that constructive criticism can be very helpful and it is so important to not take it personally. But, as I said, it's harder with family, there more emotional ties there, I think. I definitely don't think it's wise to ever ignore criticism. Obviously, I haven't ignored it! Lol. My BIL is an artist and has dabbled in photography, but he's definitely not a professional.
I think the bottom line here is: even if his criticism was valid and well- meaning, the delivery of it was harsh and dismissive. And to someone who is just practicing and trying to improve her skills (and not giving out professional photographer business cards), that is very discouraging.
I want to appeal to a wider audience, and I want my photos to be better (both technically and artistically) otherwise I wouldn't be here. But, I don't like being told that something I shoot is "wrong," because art is SO subjective. =)
@moonpig Yes, he is an artist. I do value his opinion because of that and because he's family. I want him to like what I do, but mostly I want to like what I do. I think I am my own worst critic, and I don't think I have a single photo that I'm in love with. But I want to love my photos someday, and that's what I'm working towards. =)
I just went through your pictures and I have to agree with your brother-in-law about only one thing. You take more photos of inanimate objects than people. But hey, if you do not have thousands of people running around you then it is hard to take a picture of them!
Anyway, I like your compositions and the colors are definitely stunning.
So, just keep taking pictures and keep posting them!
@oyama It's true, I don't take as many photos of people. I think there are three reasons for this:
1.) Whenever I'm with people (which is every day), I'm generally so caught up in what we're doing/talking about, that I forget to get out my camera.
2.) I feel weird taking pictures of strangers -- like I should be getting a "model release" from them or something.
3.) I don't think I'm ready to take pictures of people yet. I'm still practicing on my inanimate objects.
Thank your for your kind comments though, I appreciate it!
@bilky You make a lot of good points. Thanks! I agree, photography is SO subjective, just like any art. I am drawn to certain photos on the popular page more than others, that's just how it is! And I'm glad you posted the photos you liked, even though people suggested they were "wrong." Good for you. =)
I just looked at your pictures. I can see that you have really improved even since January of this year. I like your creativity. There are all kinds of photos in the world. Not all are of people. I rarely take a picture of a person.
I receive my harshest criticism from my brother. It was really strange once. He heavily criticized my photo of the female cardinal, but then turned around and used it (with my permission) in the Audubon newsletter. I look at what my brother writes about my photos and then forget what he says because he is so critical. If he offered constructive criticism, I would listen more. I am trying to learn to look at just one comment he has per photo and then work on that one thing (my way of using his criticism as an aid for me to improve).
I find that people respond in different ways to photos. I guess though that is what makes people so interesting. We are all so different.
Keep taking pictures and enjoying your photography.
I'm going to say that I'm in a similar boat as you. I started this project to get better with my photography. All of my shots fall into three groups: inanimate objects, wildlife, and my dog, Sage. I'm a single guy, living alone, and I don't have the type of friends that I can easily approach to sit as subjects for a photo shoot. I'm an outdoorsman, so being out among the wildlife is something I love. And Sage... well, he's my best friend, I love watching him, playing with him, and just experiencing him.
As such, the most upsetting comment I've had on my album came from a co-worker's wife. "He takes really good photographs, but there's too many of his dog." So? He's the one being that is around me the most, and the most likely to be around when I grab the camera. I didn't pay any attention to her.
Besides, I just spent the last 15 minutes surfing through your gallery, and you've got some fantastic photos! I'll be honest, there were some I wasn't as impressed with - but like has been stated, our work is art. It's not going to please everyone all the time. And besides, there are photos in my gallery that I don't like. We just have "off" days. I once heard a comparison that "anyone can take a picture. A photographer's job is to make it interesting" -- and with inanimate objects, that can be hard, but you do a wonderful job of it!
First - I think your photos are pretty good. Second - the majority of the photos here are of objects, or nature or landscapes. Unless you're @robinwarner or some other hugely talented photographer (whose names I will think of probably too late to post here), it's hard to take good portraits.
With that said, I take a lot of photos of my grandkids, etc. And you know what? Although I'm biased, I think the kids are pretty cute. My followers? Not so much. Well I should say I don't believe they find those photos as interesting - after all, the photos are of kids they don't know and they're not hugely artistic like Robin's street people photos.
And like you, I'm not at all ready to start taking photos of strangers. Maybe someday - maybe not.
So I guess my point is that this is your project. You're practicing, improving and enjoying. It would be nice to get some support but people see things differently. I'm sure my family members want to strangle me by now.
Keep taking photos, and eventually you'll develop your own style - and maybe someday it will be portraits - maybe not but you'll know what you're good at over time and being good at something usually means you enjoy it. :)
That's a lot of words to say 'who cares what he thinks?" :) I like your photos. Vent any time.
I just started following you after reading this. I think your photos are great! Different than mine. I have kids, so I take photos of people ALL THE TIME. I sometimes wish I could break out of that habit, but we do what we are most comfortable. You cannot please everyone. Some people like my photos, some love my photos, some people do not even give them a second look, or pause to look in the first place.
It's the in-law thing that really struck me in your story. I have had my fair share of in-law issues. I'm not trying to suggest there are issues, but my impression is you are not best friends with these tow. I think when a relationship is not very strong to begin with, it is very difficult to take criticism from someone. He may have been trying to give you constructive and kind criticism, but it came out wrong? I agree with the others, who cares what he thinks! Your photos are incredible!
I feel bad now. I realize it seems like I was villainizing my brother in law. That was not my intention. As I said before, he is generally very sweet and doles out compliments more than the average person. I was just hurt by the way he criticized my work. It seemed in that moment that he failed to recognize that I'm doing this project as a hobby, to better my skills, and never once have I said that I don't need improvement. I am my own WORST critic, trust me. I know when my photos suck. I usually apologize in my caption when I post a bad photo, lol!
Anyway, he's a decent guy and I shouldn't have ranted so much. I was just carrying it around in me and it was not healthy for me to bottle it up. This was literally the ONLY place I could talk about it because you can't exactly post something like that on facebook, ha ha!
Thank you to everyone who had the patience to read through my entire post. I'm sorry if I sounded at all whiny or defensive. I did not mean to come off that way. I look forward to future progress in my photography and I really enjoy and admire the work on this site from everyone else. I have been inspired countless times by the wonderful photos on 365. Thank you!!! =)
I started following you after reading this ~ so take that as a compliment to your photos! ~ I think you've gotten some good advice here and I'm "hearing" it too~ So thanks!
I think everyone gets a criticism that strikes them (I'd expect its usually from some one close or someone important) hard. ~ The best thing, I think, to do is move on. Hear it and move on. ~ He may be right, or wrong, its how you take it that matters.
I like your photos~ vent away and keep snapping and growing!!
@allegresse No reason to feel bad. You got to take them to improve them. I took landscape photos when I lived in Arizona, not that I'm in the trees I have to learn to adjust my ways. And as I take them, I hit what I think is my latest "masterpiece" and go blank for awhile, everything goes flat until I am inspired again. SO, until you are ready, and have the opportunity, you take pictures of what you are comfortable with, when you're redy for something new, you start down that path. Happy spanning.
Um, I take photos of inanimate objects all the time. There's not a %^$& thing wrong with it. Send him on over to me and I'll school him in photography :-)
Ah, I was gonna respond but then I saw that everyone has pretty much said what I was going to say xD
He doesn't sound like he's very aware of the many forms of photography... Not all photographers do portraits, weddings, etc! What about food photography? Nature photography? etc?
lol, just remember it's one negative comment out of dozens of positive comments. It's something to learn from.
One time one of my best photos (at the time... it's actually still a fav though) got a really rude comment from someone on another site... at first I was verging on tears but since then I've become better for it! Now I'm able to look back and think about what that person's motivation was in saying what they did. I've learned from that experience.
@daisy Thank you for your kind words and sharing a personal story. That is strange! I am intrigued about the photo you mentioned and I plan on browsing your project after I make dinner.
@yungingr Thank you as well for sharing a personal story! I don't think there's anything wrong with taking photos of your dog, you love him! Don't stop taking photos of him. There might be a wonderful, amazing photo of him waiting somewhere in the future, and you'll be so glad you took it when that time comes! Sorry to get all sci-fi on you. But, I feel for you. My heart breaks when I hear stories about people getting dumped on for simply sharing their creative outlet. I think some -- not all -- but some people criticize because it makes them feel better about themselves. Sad, but true. Keep taking photos yourself and don't let co-workers wives (or anyone else) tell you otherwise.
@nanascraps Thank you for your kind words. Something you said really got my attention. It's true, you don't know what you style or niche is until you've tried different things. I'm still trying to find my own personal style. But in the meantime, I'm going to keep taking photos of things I like. And, there's nothing at all wrong with taking pictures of your grandkids. They grow so quickly, capture them while you can! =)
@sevinstitches Thank you. You're right, you cannot please everybody. Sometimes, not even yourself, ha ha! I look forward to looking at your photos, I love seeing people's photos of their children -- they make such wonderful, natural subjects. To answer your question, I am close to my sister and bil, but it's complicated. It's one of those passionate relationships. We love each other very much, but are all very sensitive and things get personal sometimes. We are close, and yet, there's a rivalry. I know he would do anything for me, and I for him. But sometimes, I'd just like to be able to be relaxed and easy-going around them like I am my friends. I always feel like I have something to prove with them. Not healthy, I know, and I'm working on that too! =)
@sanera It's funny, I was absolutely not out to "gain followers" when I posted this, I just needed to vent. But, incidentally, I now have 11 new followers since posting this, wow! Thank you for your encouragement. And I agree, I have definitely learned a lot from all these responses. I hope that it helps someone else in the same boat as me -- feeling sensitive about criticism -- if they didn't want to post their own story. Thanks everyone! I really really appreciate the responses, advice, suggestions, encouragement and kind words. 365 is awesome. =)
this is YOUR journey, and not for him to critique on something that belongs to your heart. and yeah i agree with some of the other comments on here, you have some truly amazing shots on here :)))
strangely, i don't need someone like him to tell me what i'm already telling myself haha, i'm my worst critic haha :-/ lol
I think it is safe to say we are all trying to better our skills, after all when you stop working towards something, or settle for what we think we are capable of, what is the point of continuing?? And besides that, I am a fan of "inanimate objects" and must say yours are beautiful! There is no better way to capture ourselves than through the objects (and yes, sometimes people) that surround us. You should tell your B.I.L. to go look at a portrait of an ancestor and then tell you all about them, their interests, hobbies, passions....now have a look through your album, I'd guess its a lot more telling! Puts a new perspective on things huh?? =) Keep doing what you are doing, as long as that is what YOU love!
I seldom ask for much input! LOL! My husband and son know that I enjoy this project (despite my habit of falling behind every so often) and my husband, God love him, usually finds something nice to say about every photo I take. A nice handful of my friends have been very supportive and complimentary as well. My mother, however, who admittedly loves me dearly, for some reason, cannot find it in her to compliment me, unless it is a veiled insult. In looking at one of my photos a while back her response was, "well, I don't know much about this stuff . . . " so now I don't show her many shots, except those of her grandson! I know it's hard, but brush it off. This is your project and, in the end, you are the only one you need to please! Keep it up!
Inanimate objects can be much more awesome than people and the main goal of this project should be that you have something for yourself, something that brings YOU joy, that makes YOU want to improve yourself. However, I completely understand your frustration. In the beginning I showed every picture I was very happy with to my husband expecting him to like it, too. Well, he didn't. He doesn't check my page, only sometimes when I tell him to and I would love him to take an interest, because this project means so much to me but then again I did it for myself so the most important thing is that I like it and I do, so much! Meeting with other 365ers on the weekend was a wonderful experience, because there you had an exchange with people who love the same thing you do. I highly recommend it! And: hang in there, we all appreciate your work here!!!
I've read my way to the bottom of this thread and all I can say is it's your project, we take pictures of what pleases us here. We're not out to impress (much! lol) but the photos have got to firstly give us pleasure. I have less than 10 pictures of people in my project over the last 16 months! Thats not what I'm about. I love nature and beginning to want to understand about taking inanimate objects- perspectives and lighting and so on. No one else is really interested in my photos cept my 'friends' here but I love this place and the growing process in my photgraphic eye. Glad to know you turned to this wonderful community to vent your feelings. It's a great place!
at the end of the day its your project and what works for you and your goals. I take photos of all sorts of things, but i do look at some peoples projects and think gosh boring photos but that is my opinion and people may think that about mine. I've only got one portrait shot in as they or not my thing really and i dont enjoy doing them.
This absolutley is your album and what you do with it is your choice. I have very few people pics in mine - and I have some very random pics (especially on those days where you're running out of time!!). The only important thing of all of this is that YOU are getting what YOU want out of doing this. I love what you say about seeing life and everyday differently - that is by far the winner for me here, not necessarily about becoming a world class photographer. I'm with Cherrrill, it's what makes this community great that we can turn to each other to vent through true appreciation of what we all do.
=( I'm so sorry! I think you've improved greatly!! I personally don't think you need to take pictures of people to make them interesting. (I nearly never take pictures of people) I think that you should just enjoy taking pictures of things that you like. =) You're doing really good!
Sometimes it's really hard to appreciate a compliment when it's followed by a critique. I can completely understand why you're upset and it's really hard to let those things roll off, but I hope you're able to with this one. One thing I have learned about photography is it's so subjective and everyone has different opinions on what they like. Sounds like your brother likes people shots...good for him, give him a camera and tell him to go to it. :) Hang in there...you're doing a great job!
@nanascraps wowza Barbarba that was so thoughtful and i am beyond flattered. my friend lori told me to check out this discussion. @allegresse first off...i am a total beginner day one of this project was literally my first day holding a camera. i fell in deep hook line and sinker. I was in kinda a funk...kids older, dont need me...mid 40;s...not working in a stimulating job...etc.. Photography helped me see the world...each and everyday and see the beauty. started off exactly as you..looking at others photos to get inspired and to try to understand what to shoot and maybe how to compose shots. i signed up for a class so i could learn (or try to since it is so damn complicated) the mechanic sof the camera..i swear it was like i was learning a foreign language...still don't understand it as you can see from my photo yesterday..most of my shot are accidents...but i shoot shoot shoot..take tons of photos...and most importantly have fun. it took me a very long time to find out that i was passionate about street photography....and now i try every day to learn more and more..it is a slow process. you are doing a fabulous job...i would feel the same way in my BIL said that too me. I actually think you are going about this all right...keep on shooting until it hits you and you find what you love to do, what brings you joy and passion. you will find it. i think your flower photos are great. it is all so overwhelming...don't let what he says bring you down cause this is an art and because of that it should not appeal to everyone. keep on shooting and you will find what moves you most.. hope this helps...also go on the internet and learn about composition that helped me allot to...my husband got me a book that i am reading now called the photographers eye by michael freeman which i find very helpful, check that out too. be patient and have fun...hope this helps
I think your photos are awesome! Focus is great, composition is great, and you take pictures of what "moves" you! I am a beginner and have the same motivation as you - I simply want to get better! My husband has told me "no, Teri, I don't like all of your photos. But I don't have to, you do." His point was just like so many others have said - every picture and every subject is going to "speak" to everyone differently. I love when I put a picture up that others find beautiful or interesting or "good", but what I love more is that for whatever reason - I love the photo I put up and that the photo is a part of ME! Your brother in law doesn't have to like your pictures - you do, and as long they are a symbol of you and your growth in photography then you have succeeded!! And quite well I might add! I think your photos are awesome!!
@byrdlip@shutterbug0810@soxfansara@taidster Gosh, this discussion got way longer than I was anticipating. I guess I'd just like to say thank you thank you thank you for all the encouragement, compliments, stories, advice and suggestions. You guys are great and I'm so glad I have a place to go when I feel frustrated and feel like nobody in my life understands. Didn't mean to turn this into a pity party, so I'll just say thanks for the compassion! =D
@tx_mendoza Interesting theory on preserving your "who you are" through the inanimate objects you photograph! That's pretty much what I think about every time I do one!
@lynnmwatson You are a wise woman. =) Incidentally, I can sort of relate. My husband is my biggest fan (even though he's quite an accomplished photographer himself http://365project.org/rmudd/365/2010-10), God bless him! My sister is exactly like your mother. My mother is my 2nd biggest fan, tied with my dad. Go figure...sibling rivalry?
@jannaellen Sorry your husband doesn't support you. =( I guess we all have people in our lives who are like that. But, I've learned from this discussion that the most important person to impress with our art is ourselves. And, I love your idea of a 365 meetup! Thanks!
@Cherrill It is indeed a great place! I guess people take pictures of all different things, because we're all different people. I enjoy taking photos of people, but not as much as objects and nature, because you can usually rely on those things to stay put while you get focus! =D
@kmrtn6 I think you've hit the nail on the head. Everyone has had a negative opinion about someone's photograph at some point. After all, we're only human. I think the main difference though is keeping it to yourself vs. sharing your negative opinion with the photographer. Or, sharing it constructively vs. sharing it destructively. We're all here for the same reason, I'm sure. To better ourselves. So, it's definitely more productive to offer suggestions without tearing the person down. At least, that would be ideal.
@buccigrossi@sparkle@srechic@rmfeldka@tmoore Thank you so much. This discussion has given me a new outlook and more confidence in myself. I felt a bit bad after I first posted it, but now I feel like it was meant to be. How else was I going to get all this great insight from fellow 365ers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will definitely try to see the beauty in the things I photograph, not second guess myself, and work harder to take the best photo I can. =)
@robinwarner Wow, I'm famous! Lol, j/k. Thank you for the wonderful suggestions. I will check out that book and do more research! So, far my research has been "observing others photos and trying to figure out how the heck they did it" and asking my husband what F-stops and shutter speed mean. Ha ha, I am truly a beginner, but the good thing is, I won't always be! I followed you, by the way and I think you have an amazing eye and great timing!
I like your pictures a lot! I feel like in a so many ways they are better than mine, even if a totally different style. I wish I could take pictures of inanimate objects better, but I stink at it. It is a total skill, so you should be proud! I love how you are able to express your "view" using ordinary things, yet make them look interesting and full of life. Also, I totally agree with everyone else that you keep getting better and better.
Aside from that, anyone who is going to offer ANY criticism should try to take an interesting, (and hopefully technically sound) picture EVERY SINGLE DAY. It is not as easy as it sounds! :) I think being a bit discouraged and or hitting a creative road block is a natural normal thing, as it is a long road.
I think you are doing great, and I know so many others do too (my parents love your pictures). After all, you were my inspiration for even starting this!
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I don't think it is necessarily unhelpful crit (though I wasn't there for the delivery of it). Subject choice is a rather subjective thing, and you can certainly improve your technical skills by using objects as your subjects, so if that is your goal right now there is nothing wrong with it. Always consider the advice-giver behind the advice given - Are they a photographer? Do they have an art/design background? What do they like and not like (personal tastes)? If I show a bunch of baseball photos to a prospective wedding client they probably won't much care for my work, no matter how good it might be.
Constructive crit isn't just about what someone likes - don't forget that. And constructive crit doesn't always include what someone likes, either. What it does include, is a suggestion or suggestions of things you could try that may (or may not) help you improve. And that's the value of crit - taking it for what it is, and making your own decisions about what to take on board and what to ignore. Of course, ignoring crit can be perilous, but deciding to ignore it after consideration and weighing up its usefulness (and the expertise or lack thereof of the giver) is just as important as the advice you accept and seek to implement.
So, if your BIL finds your photos boring, does that matter? Is he trying to help you, but not understanding your goals? Do you want to take photos that appeal to a wider audience? I think you will find that there is value in his crit of your work, but it may not be connected to what you are currently trying to achieve.
Lastly, if you ever do want actual, honest crit, be prepared for it. It will knock you around if you take it as a crit of yourself rather than as a crit of your work. But if you truly want to improve, it is the quickest way to work out how.
So, toughen up! But keep your chin up, too - if advice is not helpful just move on, and don't let it get to you. If someone doesn't like your subject matter it speaks more about them than about you, but that's not to say it's not worth taking note.
@triptych_angel Thank you, your advice is very rational and just what I needed to hear. You're right, there are always going to be people who don't like you or what you do, no matter how popular you are. It's just harder to hear it from family -- I think.
@cjwhite Thank you so much!! And thanks for following me! Believe it or not, I did not start this discussion to get noticed or to dig for compliments. I was just literally exploding with emotion and worried that if I didn't create an outlet, I would explode at my husband when he gets home from work. Not fair to him and not the kind of wife I want to be. I feel much much better now that I got it off my chest.
Also, I was really just wondering if anybody else had dealt with that kind of criticism and how they handled it. I guess the answer is just thick skin, really. *sigh.*
You have to follow "your" heart... What speaks to you!!!! I have had several people "suggest" that I was choosing the wrong photo to post. It's funny, because those are the ones that made it to the popular page! Listen to your heart! Oh, and btw, family members can be the worst when it comes to support!!
@jinximages That is very helpful, thank you. Yes, I agree that constructive criticism can be very helpful and it is so important to not take it personally. But, as I said, it's harder with family, there more emotional ties there, I think. I definitely don't think it's wise to ever ignore criticism. Obviously, I haven't ignored it! Lol. My BIL is an artist and has dabbled in photography, but he's definitely not a professional.
I think the bottom line here is: even if his criticism was valid and well- meaning, the delivery of it was harsh and dismissive. And to someone who is just practicing and trying to improve her skills (and not giving out professional photographer business cards), that is very discouraging.
I want to appeal to a wider audience, and I want my photos to be better (both technically and artistically) otherwise I wouldn't be here. But, I don't like being told that something I shoot is "wrong," because art is SO subjective. =)
@moonpig Yes, he is an artist. I do value his opinion because of that and because he's family. I want him to like what I do, but mostly I want to like what I do. I think I am my own worst critic, and I don't think I have a single photo that I'm in love with. But I want to love my photos someday, and that's what I'm working towards. =)
I just went through your pictures and I have to agree with your brother-in-law about only one thing. You take more photos of inanimate objects than people. But hey, if you do not have thousands of people running around you then it is hard to take a picture of them!
Anyway, I like your compositions and the colors are definitely stunning.
So, just keep taking pictures and keep posting them!
1.) Whenever I'm with people (which is every day), I'm generally so caught up in what we're doing/talking about, that I forget to get out my camera.
2.) I feel weird taking pictures of strangers -- like I should be getting a "model release" from them or something.
3.) I don't think I'm ready to take pictures of people yet. I'm still practicing on my inanimate objects.
Thank your for your kind comments though, I appreciate it!
I receive my harshest criticism from my brother. It was really strange once. He heavily criticized my photo of the female cardinal, but then turned around and used it (with my permission) in the Audubon newsletter. I look at what my brother writes about my photos and then forget what he says because he is so critical. If he offered constructive criticism, I would listen more. I am trying to learn to look at just one comment he has per photo and then work on that one thing (my way of using his criticism as an aid for me to improve).
I find that people respond in different ways to photos. I guess though that is what makes people so interesting. We are all so different.
Keep taking pictures and enjoying your photography.
As such, the most upsetting comment I've had on my album came from a co-worker's wife. "He takes really good photographs, but there's too many of his dog." So? He's the one being that is around me the most, and the most likely to be around when I grab the camera. I didn't pay any attention to her.
Besides, I just spent the last 15 minutes surfing through your gallery, and you've got some fantastic photos! I'll be honest, there were some I wasn't as impressed with - but like has been stated, our work is art. It's not going to please everyone all the time. And besides, there are photos in my gallery that I don't like. We just have "off" days. I once heard a comparison that "anyone can take a picture. A photographer's job is to make it interesting" -- and with inanimate objects, that can be hard, but you do a wonderful job of it!
With that said, I take a lot of photos of my grandkids, etc. And you know what? Although I'm biased, I think the kids are pretty cute. My followers? Not so much. Well I should say I don't believe they find those photos as interesting - after all, the photos are of kids they don't know and they're not hugely artistic like Robin's street people photos.
And like you, I'm not at all ready to start taking photos of strangers. Maybe someday - maybe not.
So I guess my point is that this is your project. You're practicing, improving and enjoying. It would be nice to get some support but people see things differently. I'm sure my family members want to strangle me by now.
Keep taking photos, and eventually you'll develop your own style - and maybe someday it will be portraits - maybe not but you'll know what you're good at over time and being good at something usually means you enjoy it. :)
That's a lot of words to say 'who cares what he thinks?" :) I like your photos. Vent any time.
It's the in-law thing that really struck me in your story. I have had my fair share of in-law issues. I'm not trying to suggest there are issues, but my impression is you are not best friends with these tow. I think when a relationship is not very strong to begin with, it is very difficult to take criticism from someone. He may have been trying to give you constructive and kind criticism, but it came out wrong? I agree with the others, who cares what he thinks! Your photos are incredible!
Anyway, he's a decent guy and I shouldn't have ranted so much. I was just carrying it around in me and it was not healthy for me to bottle it up. This was literally the ONLY place I could talk about it because you can't exactly post something like that on facebook, ha ha!
Thank you to everyone who had the patience to read through my entire post. I'm sorry if I sounded at all whiny or defensive. I did not mean to come off that way. I look forward to future progress in my photography and I really enjoy and admire the work on this site from everyone else. I have been inspired countless times by the wonderful photos on 365. Thank you!!! =)
I think everyone gets a criticism that strikes them (I'd expect its usually from some one close or someone important) hard. ~ The best thing, I think, to do is move on. Hear it and move on. ~ He may be right, or wrong, its how you take it that matters.
I like your photos~ vent away and keep snapping and growing!!
Keep on keepin' on!
He doesn't sound like he's very aware of the many forms of photography... Not all photographers do portraits, weddings, etc! What about food photography? Nature photography? etc?
lol, just remember it's one negative comment out of dozens of positive comments. It's something to learn from.
One time one of my best photos (at the time... it's actually still a fav though) got a really rude comment from someone on another site... at first I was verging on tears but since then I've become better for it! Now I'm able to look back and think about what that person's motivation was in saying what they did. I've learned from that experience.
@yungingr Thank you as well for sharing a personal story! I don't think there's anything wrong with taking photos of your dog, you love him! Don't stop taking photos of him. There might be a wonderful, amazing photo of him waiting somewhere in the future, and you'll be so glad you took it when that time comes! Sorry to get all sci-fi on you. But, I feel for you. My heart breaks when I hear stories about people getting dumped on for simply sharing their creative outlet. I think some -- not all -- but some people criticize because it makes them feel better about themselves. Sad, but true. Keep taking photos yourself and don't let co-workers wives (or anyone else) tell you otherwise.
@nanascraps Thank you for your kind words. Something you said really got my attention. It's true, you don't know what you style or niche is until you've tried different things. I'm still trying to find my own personal style. But in the meantime, I'm going to keep taking photos of things I like. And, there's nothing at all wrong with taking pictures of your grandkids. They grow so quickly, capture them while you can! =)
@sevinstitches Thank you. You're right, you cannot please everybody. Sometimes, not even yourself, ha ha! I look forward to looking at your photos, I love seeing people's photos of their children -- they make such wonderful, natural subjects. To answer your question, I am close to my sister and bil, but it's complicated. It's one of those passionate relationships. We love each other very much, but are all very sensitive and things get personal sometimes. We are close, and yet, there's a rivalry. I know he would do anything for me, and I for him. But sometimes, I'd just like to be able to be relaxed and easy-going around them like I am my friends. I always feel like I have something to prove with them. Not healthy, I know, and I'm working on that too! =)
strangely, i don't need someone like him to tell me what i'm already telling myself haha, i'm my worst critic haha :-/ lol
I think your photos are awesome! Focus is great, composition is great, and you take pictures of what "moves" you! I am a beginner and have the same motivation as you - I simply want to get better! My husband has told me "no, Teri, I don't like all of your photos. But I don't have to, you do." His point was just like so many others have said - every picture and every subject is going to "speak" to everyone differently. I love when I put a picture up that others find beautiful or interesting or "good", but what I love more is that for whatever reason - I love the photo I put up and that the photo is a part of ME! Your brother in law doesn't have to like your pictures - you do, and as long they are a symbol of you and your growth in photography then you have succeeded!! And quite well I might add! I think your photos are awesome!!
@tx_mendoza Interesting theory on preserving your "who you are" through the inanimate objects you photograph! That's pretty much what I think about every time I do one!
@lynnmwatson You are a wise woman. =) Incidentally, I can sort of relate. My husband is my biggest fan (even though he's quite an accomplished photographer himself http://365project.org/rmudd/365/2010-10), God bless him! My sister is exactly like your mother. My mother is my 2nd biggest fan, tied with my dad. Go figure...sibling rivalry?
@jannaellen Sorry your husband doesn't support you. =( I guess we all have people in our lives who are like that. But, I've learned from this discussion that the most important person to impress with our art is ourselves. And, I love your idea of a 365 meetup! Thanks!
@Cherrill It is indeed a great place! I guess people take pictures of all different things, because we're all different people. I enjoy taking photos of people, but not as much as objects and nature, because you can usually rely on those things to stay put while you get focus! =D
@kmrtn6 I think you've hit the nail on the head. Everyone has had a negative opinion about someone's photograph at some point. After all, we're only human. I think the main difference though is keeping it to yourself vs. sharing your negative opinion with the photographer. Or, sharing it constructively vs. sharing it destructively. We're all here for the same reason, I'm sure. To better ourselves. So, it's definitely more productive to offer suggestions without tearing the person down. At least, that would be ideal.
@robinwarner Wow, I'm famous! Lol, j/k. Thank you for the wonderful suggestions. I will check out that book and do more research! So, far my research has been "observing others photos and trying to figure out how the heck they did it" and asking my husband what F-stops and shutter speed mean. Ha ha, I am truly a beginner, but the good thing is, I won't always be! I followed you, by the way and I think you have an amazing eye and great timing!
Aside from that, anyone who is going to offer ANY criticism should try to take an interesting, (and hopefully technically sound) picture EVERY SINGLE DAY. It is not as easy as it sounds! :) I think being a bit discouraged and or hitting a creative road block is a natural normal thing, as it is a long road.
I think you are doing great, and I know so many others do too (my parents love your pictures). After all, you were my inspiration for even starting this!