How to Give a Great Photo Critique

While the headline image is a bit of a joke, giving feedback is part and parcel of the 365 community – it helps us show appreciation for other peoples work, encourages us to develop our skills in the right direction or try new things; and chances are that you will make someone’s day simply by commenting on their photo.

Here we give some pointers on giving a good photo critique, tell you how to get your images critiqued by fellow 365ers, and were you can find images that people want feedback on.

Photo Critique Etiquette

• Be honest


• Be polite


• Give useful feedback


• Say what you think worked


• If you think it did not work, be tactful with your response


• Try to be objective in your opinions, for example - you may not be a fan of a certain style of photography, but that should not be a reason for giving a negatively biased critique.

Things to comment on

• Say how the photo makes you feel


• Acknowledge technical aspects such as focus and exposure


• Suggest other possible angles


• Comment on lighting and colours


• Talk about textures


• Give tips on technique


• Share what you have learned from attempting similar shots

How to comment on a photo that has asked to be critiqued

Mention your first impressions and the technical aspects of the photo, then comment on the artistic elements, highlighting what you like and why. Follow this with a comment about what you think would improve the picture and why. Finally give your overall opinion, all things considered.

Remember: The point of a critique is to help someone develop their skills with the help of constructive feedback.

Critiquing and asking for a Critique on 365

Many 365ers contribute to the community with comments - and if you are one of them, here is a great big ‘thank you’ to you! – but did you know that you don’t have to wait for fellow 365ers to find a picture that you are proud of to get feedback; or indeed, if you are a keen commenter, that there are people looking for your opinion in the 365 forum?

The tag to use on photos you want critique on is 'critique-me' (don’t forget the hyphen!) and if you are looking for photos to comment on go to our dedicated Critique Me tag page

If you have one specific image, and you are looking for more specific feedback, why not start a discussion thread in the Critique area. Simply include 1 image that you are looking for feedback about, maybe mention specific aspects you are looking for comments about, and the community will help you where they can.