I am absolutely loving this group since I found it back in March. Daily photography and perusing the photos on 365 has become one of my favorite activities. This is a very friendly and supportive group and everyone is nice to each other and helpful. I am thinking it is also basically a big competition. It makes me personally sad that everything has to be so competitive.
I know it is a competitive world but I have spent most of my life rooting for the underdog and trying to help the little person.
One thing that has pushed me over the edge on this is the statistics that I started getting when I became an Ace member. How many views, how many favs? A graph of how popular you are on any one day and over time.
And then there are top 5 lists, top 20 lists and people always (and this includes me) wondering how to get more views and more followers.
I am not saying this is all bad, but it does leave me wondering, isn't this about art for art's sake? It may be I feel this way because I know I can't compete with my p and s camera which I love because it is light weight and I have arthritic wrists. It may be because there are many beautiful photos posted that are not being noticed (although we have numerous folks who are working really hard to get them noticed in many ways)
Actually the weekly theme, is indeed art for art's sake with many very creative interpretations of ideas and subjects. But in the end it is a competition.
Susan, I think all of this is whatever we choose it to be. If we chose it to be art for art's sake.....then that is what it is. If we are competitive in nature and want to get on that popular page, then that is what it is for us. Each of us chooses how we experience each moment in our lives.
For me, this is a wonderful place to learn about varying techniques in shooting and editing. My photography is improving as I view all the different techniques and styles here.
While I know that the intended purpose of this site is to document 365 days of our lives, for me, it's documenting that I am alive and viewing the world and all its beauty. After surviving a near fatal blockage in my coronary artery twice in 8 months, I worry about very little in my life, including who likes me or my pictures (including those monkeys!) :)
I viewed your pictures and they are wonderful and creative!.
I hope that you will continue on in this process in documenting what you find interesting and beautiful in your life and focus on the fact that you are here, alive and blessed to have your P&S camera to document YOUR world.
Hi Susan, I read your entry and was beginning to go along with your sentiments.....and then l read Linda's reply. She has said it all.
I am a relative newcomer here and l suppose 365 plays a large part in my life now. But l do feel sometimes that there is too much competitiveness. As you say, a large number striving for that abstract/obscure/eye-catching image that will beat the rest of us. I have to remind myself that l want this to be a photo journal of 365 days in my life. If some of those images stand out from the rest then great. But, l too, have a hunger for knowledge. I want to learn how to progress and get better images. And this site has been great in helping me with that. I won't become an 'ace' member because l really don't give a jot where l am in the popularity stakes. I will limit the number of people l follow because l want to give honest and constructive comments to them and not follow 500 so l get lots of other comments and feel popular.
We must remember why we came on here and see where it ultimately takes us. Who knows?
I can see where you are coming from...but some benefits I see to the "top 5s" and "top 20s" are these:
1. They bring out the creativity in people. Especially the weekly theme. I think the theme idea was a wonderful one...if you don't like it or dont want to participate in it you dont have to...but for those who do it is an option! :)
2. They are challenging...and if you DO make it into the top 20 or top 5...it is an awesome feeling...and you feel honored to be in it because you made it there without "voting for youself" if that makes sense.
3. These competions you speak of...bring a lot of really great photos out that a lot of us would have missed if there were no "top 20's" or "top 5's". It makes it easier for the 365ers that DONT have the time to browse to see a few pictures and to enjoy them.
Plus I woulnt really call them "competitions" exactly...I mean if you DO see them as competitions...then they are "friendly" ones...you know what I mean?
Please understand, I dooo see where you are coming from...and there are a lot of 365ers out there that have only a few followers and have SUPER awesome pictures!!! In fact, I just started a thread a day or two ago called "photos worth a second look". I picked out some photos that I felt deserved a second look and people really really appreciated it!
All I have to say is that I love 365...and it consists of a wonderful diverse group of people with a lot of friendliness, experience, and support.
i see where you're coming from, susan. but i'm going to second what lauren has just said.
for me, the competitions are not so we can see who's better...it's to push people like me (who's just beginning) to think outside the box and to get out of our comfort zones.
I have a confession to make. I am jealous and you all probably can see that. I would just love to have the approval of the "stars" in this group, but I doubt I will get it by writing petulant messages.
All my life I have been just average and also ran and sometimes it just gets to me. I am loving this project for what I get out of it, I love the themes and I follow them nearly every week. I do learn from others, and I am surely inspired by what I see here every day, but I have been at this (photograph) for more than 50 years. I would like to think that you youngsters would have something to learn from me. I have plenty of time to do my pictures every day and I devote much creative energy to it. Now the results are usually not that great, but every now and then I succeed. I had lots of positive comments about my photos of Alaska, but I live in Iowa and eventually I had to come home to my corn fields (which I love)
I tried starting a couple of other discussions and didn't get too far. One of my discussions was to ask who can remember doing photography before SLR and of course before digital. By the response to that I see that there are very very few of us.
I was just born too soon. I absolutely love everything electronic, I love computers and mp3 players and digital cameras. Now days when I look back over my life I think I wish I had been a professional photographer. But I was too poor and too lacking in self confidence to even consider it. Two things I know: there were amazing women photographers in the first half of the 20th century who could have been my role models and there are many people who start amazing artistic careers in their late 60's. The equipment now is amazing and very expensive, and there are, let's face it, many many great photographers both professional and non. I just don't see myself having the money or energy to do it now. So you all are my audience for better or worse. I love you all.
I didnt know much about 365 when I signed up - only about that it was to document your life for a year. A friend told me about it and I liked the idea a lot, and thought it would stop me being lazy with my camera.
I was very shocked the first time I got a comment, as I didnt know that was part of it. Wasnt sure if I liked the fact that anyone could see and comment, I joined for more personal reasons that feeling popular or competative.
That said, I do now enjoy reading comments, esp if I've managed to make someone laugh, and I like to comment on other photo's when I've seen something I like - thats not because they might be arty, or anything. Just simply because I like them, and appreciate what was done.
The competitions I would never see as a competition really. For me they are just idea's so if someone is going through a rut (which we all seem to do occasionally) then its something else to focus on - pun intended! For me they are completely good, harmless fun, and something that a lot of on-line photography forums seem to do. But nobody has to to join in, its totally up to anyone how they chose to use 365.
Yes, I agree to an extent about the DSLR's being slightly better sometimes for making life easier (ie, manual exposure and being able to play around more) but as others have pointed out on other discussions, there are many people here that take smashing photographs with sure-shots, and even phone camera's. I think that the eye beats the equipment any day.
Susan, I'm so sorry that you feel that way...I dont think it is a petulant message at all. You are just sharing your feelings, and if you ask me here is the best place to do it. I realize I am younger than you, but guess what you have that I dont? Experience and wisdom. So cherish that and know that your photography is NOT bad at all!! If you enjoy it that's all that matters.
oh and...one more thing...my family COMES from Iowa!! Do you know any Dahlhausers? Well originally we are from Germany...but it is to Iowa where we grew up in the U.S. I was born in Indiana but my grandparents live there. oh and although I love Iowa...it isnt super exciting is it? so I'd say you are doing SUPER well with your surroundings...I just looked at your pictures.
I guess either you have to REALLY put yourself out there....
or maybe find another site?
I think 365 is just becoming soo popular that people are getting less and less views...if that makes sense. There are a TON of people on here...which means more pictures, and more likely for some to be missed.
I agree with Lauren and her saying "I think 365 is just becoming soo popular that people are getting less and less views"
Because lately I've been looking at photos and thinking there are less views and comments not only on my photos, but on a lot of the people I follow. I really think we need something for the awesome less viewed photos to get noticed!
I am a real newcomer to Iowa, having moved here 4 years ago. I am originally from Texas and have always lived in the south and southwest. We moved here when our son came here for his job and we liked it (oh and they had kids which we wanted to be able to spoil) There are many German descendants, here but I don't know any Dahlausers. What I think makes the midwest so unique is all the people who descended from Germany, Holland and the Scandinavaian countries. They are intelligent, neat and hard working folks. Unlike my ancestors who came to the south and owned slaves. UGH.
Susan, I think you're awesome and I appreciate you laying that out there! I'm facing a few shoulda coulda woulda's in my life right now too & I'm sure there are more to come. I consider myself a highly competitive person but I realize that, on this site, I'm a Junior Varsity player mingling with Olympians. But I'm having a whole lotta fun anyway. It sounds like you enjoy it too. I hope you keep it up because I, for one, am happy to be your audience! Yay, cornfields! =)
Susan, if it helps, l remember cameras before DSLR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Give me a DSLR any day. I used to pay a Kings ransom on processing only to find l might have one or two half decent images.
My wife has joined 365 as well now so you can imagine how it gets in our home sometimes! We fight for the DSLR but l am just as happy to use the P & S.
Maybe you have someone you know that might like to join 365 as well. I wish my Mum would do something like this instead of playing Bingo!!
Please don't lose hope!!!
All I have is a point and shoot, as well...but I try not to let it limit me.
I look at what others have done, and try to figure out how much I can re-create, or use in my own way!
I figure it's like that old Hertz commercial ( I am dating myself! ) "We're #2, so we try harder!"
( We don't really, we just have to challenge ourselves differently! )
I did a water shot yesterday, that I was particularly proud of, since I don't even have a tripod, and it actually ended up on the popular page on Sunday!
And, I have a confession to make regarding the themes and competitions...
There have been a couple of my entries...in particular the shadow theme and simplicity themes, where I thought, considering I use a point and shoot, they were stand-outs, so I was a bit disappointed that they weren't recognized, but only slightly.
That said, I took a deep gulp last week, and unsure whether or not I was doing the right thing, I posted one of my mastectomy scars, for the simplicity theme.
The reaction I received was overwhelming, some people told me it was an important image......so I got my hopes up that it might be chosen as one of the 5...or at least put on the popular page....which of course it wasn't.....which may or may not have to do with the fact that the thumbnail looked sort of like a loaf of bread or a meatloaf ( too funny! ), so it might not have even been seen by the powers that be!
But then, I had to slap myself upside the head, and remember what the real prize was. ;-)
( I'm still going to keep trying for those competitions, though! It keeps me motivated and energized! )
Don't give up!
And don't worry about feeling a little jealous! It just means that you are human!
wow, a very interesting thread and totally agree with the sentiments being said here from everyone. I took this project on as a personal challenge - I make an effort to do something every year thats outside my comfort zone to help me learn about myself. So to me, this is a documentation of my year with the end goal being that hopefulyl i'll have learnt something about photography and when I print it out, i'll have an interesting coffee table book :)... With that in mind i think your 365 is great!
Personally, I like the ideas of a top 5 / top 20 and choose to see it in a different light. It gives an example of what's achievable and ideas of things to try in future andI hope to be able to give some of these photos a try myself.
P.S. dont get distressed about Lauren and Barb, they're lovely, amazingly talented and not mere mortals like us ;)
i had a look at the first ten pics of the top 20, and I think that at least 6 of them would've looked great with a sure-shot too. I really dont think its all down to the camera.
I'll put my penny worth in here....but I do come from all sorts of points of view. Firstly I use a point and shoot and when I was first here I din't even know how that worked!! A lot of the image is to do with imagination and creativity and not what camera you use. I have been lucky enough to be on the popular page a few times and it gives me a hell of a kick and a great deal of encouragement. I've done some of the themes, usually to get me out of a rut ( oh no Cherrill not another flower picture!!:-) ) They do get you looking at the world from a new and different perspective. I have been about to give up on here quite a few times, thinking other pictures are way too stunning for mine to get noticed but a few loyal followers give me a lot of encouragement. Don't give up, enjoy your photographic world, take pleasure iin your own shots, think what a fantastic album you will have after a year and if along the way we make it in a few categories, well that's a bonus! Happy days!! :-)
Art is amazing in many different forms. Different forms are appreciated by different people. Same said about photography in all its forms; camera types, subject matter, and processing included. Some of us (me) struggle to learn how to maximise the potential of the fancy cameras we have.
I would never look at 365 in a competitive way. This is a place where you can be who you want. Follow themes if you wish, and learn from others around you.
Personally I have utilised 365 as a way to learn how to use my camera, and along the way have thoroughly enjoyed viewing some great photography.
I have learnt a lot, and appreciate the recognition I occasionally get.
I dont do this compete I do this to relax, and to get better at something I now really love!
Woops.. Quite an Intense topic going on here... Half of which passed above my head.... But at least I came to know there is some thing like top 20 going on and I went back and found the links and I tell u what !!! those are some awesome links.....
Any way... What I think is ..competition is a way of life... only when we try to compete and do better than what we did the last time......But we should not let the competition disappoint us... its should encourage us..
Appreciation comes our way when we start appreciating others.....
and the most important thing for me is that I should be happy with what I did to get that picture.... for me the experience is the most important.. which I will remember... and which will be worth sharing with the pictures...
Lauren, I hope you read to the bottom here to see this message. I just read your profile. I had no idea you were in high school, or I suppose you have graduated by now. Your messages read like a mature person and I congratulate you for that.
I hoped I made it clear, I love this group and I think it is a kind, supportive group of people. I appreciate every kind remark more than anyone would ever know. I also appreciate everyone who took the time to answer this thread. I try really hard to comment on amazing photographs that catch my eye and watch for people who do good work and don't have a lot of followers or comments.
I like seeing the theme photos a lot and I peruse the popular photos every day and my eyes pop out with amazement. I still think the top 20 list is strictly a popularity contest so it doesn't do much for me.
I had photos that appeared in the popular site several times back a month or so ago. It just did wonders for my ego. But lately (since coming back from Alaska) I have been in a slump, everyone probably knows about post amazing vacation slump.
Oh and I joined Ace to support the project not to get my statistics, that was an unfortunate side effect for me. Those statistics are sort of like the old thing that happened in grade school where you listed who you liked and passed it on to your neighbor.....WAYYYY before texting.
Susan, I think I can identify a bit with what you are feeling. I always thought about being a photographer and that I would be able to take great pictures. But when i "inherited" my son's Canon Rebel XT it took me a while to take it off Auto and even after online tutorials and a purchased manual I still can't grasp all there is to know about the camera and about photography in general. Basics? Sure. But then when, like you, I see all the wonderful pics on this site, I feel inferior and wish I could learn and retain and put it all to use. I have received many comments on many of my pics and it does make me feel good about my photography, but then I lose initiative and lose creativity and it becomes a chore. Many of my pics are one shot and done pics. And they turn out as good as some of the ones where I take a multitude of shots or take time to set them up.
I haven't joined Ace because I am on a number of photo sites including Flickr and Phanfare and have paid to upgrade there that I am not ready to do another one.
@Lauren, you make a good point about more people make it less likely to view the pictures and members you want to. I find that with all the people I follow I would have to be online almost constantly to see everyone's pics. If i come on in the evening and scroll through my homepage I might only get about thirty or so thumbnails and captions, missing all the ones earlier in the day. If I want to see someone's pics, like yours, I would have to seek them out.
What am I trying to say here? I don't know, just rambling, which I do quite often. As for your saying your restricted by your location, I would disagree. As part of the alphabet challenge I made most of the twenty six shots without leaving my house and yard. Even now many of my pics are from the house and yard. So, unless you have a desire for panoramic shots, close to home is good enough.
I think you can also get more views and followrs by commenting on other peoples pictures as well... not sure if u do or dont do that already. But that is more of a for sure way that people will see your pictures in the first place. Bc I know most times when someone leaves me a comment I look at their page and see what they have and choose to follow them too or not that way I can see their pics daily... so if u start commenting more on those pics u like, you'll most likely start to get more followers the same. There are so many people on here, its hard to just randomly come across ev ery great photographers pictures.
@Weng - ha! "not mere mortals"...you are too funny. Sir I believe you are one of our species as well so get with it ;)
@Susan - I did read down to the bottom :) ...but yes I am in highschool. My senior year will be starting soon...kinda scary :X but I really appreciate what you said. that means a lot.
I also try my best to comment and respond to people as much as I can...but no matter what...a ton of people are always left in the dust! but I can't help it...I get busy...and even if I spend 3 hours on here I dont feel satisfied and cant get through all the people. So I guess what I'm saying is that we can only do our best and live life. What I try to do is to AT LEAST comment on peoples pictures who commented on my picture for that day. It makes it easy to click on their profile, comment, then hit back and go down the list. That is like my way of saying thank you for your comment...because I really appreciate the time and effort poeple go through to seek out people and to comment because the WANT to. I love doing that too...just wish I could 24/7 lol
and top 20 IS for popularity...but I think more people will learn to like it as time goes by...I'm not sure what to say about it...but that it is a FRIENDLY competition :)
and I'm not an Ace member or whatever...not even sure what it all comes with. I'm considering it though...
@Rayswrld - Yea see I have the same problem. I'm following TOO many people to comment and keep up with...but I do my best....following is also a good way to say "hey, I support you, your work, and your personality"...even if I cant comment on everybody's picture for that day...or they have the same problem....it is still an honor to be followed or TO follow...does that make sense?
oh and dont worry about the rambling thing. as you can see I have the same "issue" hahaha
Okay, I concede. The photo chosen winner for simplicity proves that this does not require any fancy lenses or even beautiful unusual scenery. It just shows incredible creative thinking.
I fully support what Ashley has said. For me, its part of the 365 experience, being able to look at others photos and passing a comment. I will always look at those that have left a comment on my photos.
Please don't fall into the trap of just clicking onto EVERYONE and start following them. There is no way you can keep up with everyone when you pass 40 or so people. I would feel completely out of control if l was following 500 odd people. Its ridiculous. I am going to restrict myself to 40 or so and if l see anyone worth following after that then l will delete someone who is not as good, in my eyes!
But, having said all that, its what each individual is happy with. Its just my view and l am not saying its right or wrong. Thought l had better add that before all those 300+ follow collectors have a go!
Susan--lots of comments here to ditto, bit I'll add my own. Personally, I never enter or vote in the Theme compititions for that reason (well, once I entered my ear for the "Eerie" theme but that was a joke). Art is subjective, having it be a competitive just kills it for me.
As far as the "Popular" page, I'm not a fan of that either. In fact, I find it somewhat embarrassing and really have no idea how it's generated. The one upside on it, is that sometimes it can direct you to somebody's photo that you may have missed.
Personally, my photos are concepts in my head and I don't claim to be a great photographer but I strive to be better technically. If I make people laugh or make people think, then that's a bonus. The writer in me, I guess.
As far as Followers--I do follow everyone that follows me, simply because this forum is a give and take. (And I do go through everyone's photos throughout the day. I find it relaxing and candy for my eyes.) I think the bottom line is to have creative fun and share ideas.
Susan -
Hehe, giggling now. The simplicity photo was taken with a DSLR and a fancy lens, and yep, am proud of making it look like a sure-shot!!
Am very happy that it made you feel better and a little less disheartened.
Hugs
oh, i agree...no offense to anyone, but it gets tiring to see some of the same people on the popular page virtually every single day. and part of why their shots get so many views is because they follow and are followed by a bijillion people...again, no offense, I'm just sayin'...
Ach, do it for you. At the end of the year, you'll look back through your 365 pictures and they'll be a wonder in their own right, because blimey, you took that picture MONTHS ago and you can look at it and remember what you were up to that day, or the stupid stuff you did to set up that particular shot. Yes, you can look at other people's pics and think "Wow, that's amazing, wish I could do that," etc, but when there are so many of them, they do just become nice/awesome/funny pictures after a while. The ones that YOU take will be the ones that are special in the long run :)
I have the same kind of jealous desire for no competition you mentioned, so I can see where you are coming from there.
Plus, I am just a beginner as far as photography goes. If I spent too much time browsing the Popular page and themes, I would get discouraged, figure I can never be that good, and quit.
I stick to the Latest page when browsing. I get to see lots of other people's shots and find people I want to follow who seem to have talent without being over the top.
As far as my project...I just try to take pretty pictures. Part of my reason for coming here has been to stretch myself into looking, planning, and shooting better photos. And to document my life. The life takes first priority, though, when it comes down to it.
And I do like this site for all the friendliness I have found. I have not seen anyone putting down others' photos in comments. That is a big plus for someone as fragile as I am. ;)
For the most part I think this site is Art for Arts sake.. But..
Like you say people are naturally competative and will tend to think competitivly in some way if only small.
As for the weekly theme.. it is a competition but IMO competition is what gives us some of our motivation in life, hobbies, business ect. I think it only makes us strive to do better.. which is why Im here. To show my photos, find inspiration and learn from others
I'm only about a month into my year of pictures, but I'm not worried about competition or being inferior (which I clearly am) to other ppl here. I have a simple camera and I'm not editing my pics at all or setting any of my pics up. They are all just things I come across in my day. It truly is a view of a year of my life, one picture at a time. I post things that are important to me or are daily parts of my life or are funny or magnificent things I come across. This is what I joined for.
What I didn't expect, but have received, in the month I've been active here is the support and comfirmation that I do have an eye for a shot. I have also learned from other's pictures to see the world a little differently that my view has always been. It's not changed, but it's broadened a bit. And that's a good thing.
So basically, I think that this project is what you make it. It can be a competition if that's what you're here for. But you certainly don't have to get caught up in that. I just love photography and love seeing the world thru other ppls lenses. And I hope that along the way, someone enjoys seeing my view as well.
Susan, I know exactly what you mean. There are times when I go through a phase of not getting many views or comments and I get a little disheartened, but then I'll get a photo that gets a lot of attention and I feel great. I think it's like anything, getting a response makes you feel great. I don't see it as a popularity contest though - I know that the photos that don't get the comments are the ones that don't deserve them, in the main, which gives me a push to improve. When I do get comments, it's really encouraging though and that's great. In the mean time, keep on going and value the comments you get, like I do. :-)
I am pretty new to 365 and have ever so much to learn. But I love to see the challenges and how great they are. Not just the pics, but the ideas they come up with. And everyone is quick to help when you ask for it. They also give me more ideas and things to work on to get better.
This has never felt like a competition to me. These photos are about our visions, our passions, our loves, our... lives, basically... and that's not something you can or should compare.
Feedback is a very powerful thing. It can make your day to think that someone noticed something you did. That being said, I agree that 365 is whatever you want it to be and I love it!
I use the themes as a push to try new things. I take a look at the photos that are getting the most views and see if I can apply whatever techniques they used in mine so I can improve. One of my pictures made the popular page on one day, that made me feel good. At the end of the day, though, we're all looking at a lot of pictures, I can't always keep up. If I get views and comments, great. If I don't, that's ok too, I still have the record of what I was doing that day.
Take the info for what it is worth, some strive to make those top lists others couldn't care less. If you choose to look at those stats and say it makes you feel inferior I really think that is on you. There are people content with taking cell phones pics everyday, others don't even try one bit so as long as you are trying you should feel good about your project.
I personally like the stats, I like the new top 20, still haven't made the top 20 but on days I care to put more into my photos I'm thinking about what it takes to make that list. It makes me think beyond what I normally shoot, it adds excitement to the days I truly care, and the days I just need a shot I couldn't care less if I don't even get a comment, I know its a bad photo.
Write a Reply
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.
Tweets ahoy!
Join the Group
Pin With Me
For me, this is a wonderful place to learn about varying techniques in shooting and editing. My photography is improving as I view all the different techniques and styles here.
While I know that the intended purpose of this site is to document 365 days of our lives, for me, it's documenting that I am alive and viewing the world and all its beauty. After surviving a near fatal blockage in my coronary artery twice in 8 months, I worry about very little in my life, including who likes me or my pictures (including those monkeys!) :)
I viewed your pictures and they are wonderful and creative!.
I hope that you will continue on in this process in documenting what you find interesting and beautiful in your life and focus on the fact that you are here, alive and blessed to have your P&S camera to document YOUR world.
Shoot away!
Linda
I am a relative newcomer here and l suppose 365 plays a large part in my life now. But l do feel sometimes that there is too much competitiveness. As you say, a large number striving for that abstract/obscure/eye-catching image that will beat the rest of us. I have to remind myself that l want this to be a photo journal of 365 days in my life. If some of those images stand out from the rest then great. But, l too, have a hunger for knowledge. I want to learn how to progress and get better images. And this site has been great in helping me with that. I won't become an 'ace' member because l really don't give a jot where l am in the popularity stakes. I will limit the number of people l follow because l want to give honest and constructive comments to them and not follow 500 so l get lots of other comments and feel popular.
We must remember why we came on here and see where it ultimately takes us. Who knows?
1. They bring out the creativity in people. Especially the weekly theme. I think the theme idea was a wonderful one...if you don't like it or dont want to participate in it you dont have to...but for those who do it is an option! :)
2. They are challenging...and if you DO make it into the top 20 or top 5...it is an awesome feeling...and you feel honored to be in it because you made it there without "voting for youself" if that makes sense.
3. These competions you speak of...bring a lot of really great photos out that a lot of us would have missed if there were no "top 20's" or "top 5's". It makes it easier for the 365ers that DONT have the time to browse to see a few pictures and to enjoy them.
Plus I woulnt really call them "competitions" exactly...I mean if you DO see them as competitions...then they are "friendly" ones...you know what I mean?
Please understand, I dooo see where you are coming from...and there are a lot of 365ers out there that have only a few followers and have SUPER awesome pictures!!! In fact, I just started a thread a day or two ago called "photos worth a second look". I picked out some photos that I felt deserved a second look and people really really appreciated it!
All I have to say is that I love 365...and it consists of a wonderful diverse group of people with a lot of friendliness, experience, and support.
for me, the competitions are not so we can see who's better...it's to push people like me (who's just beginning) to think outside the box and to get out of our comfort zones.
All my life I have been just average and also ran and sometimes it just gets to me. I am loving this project for what I get out of it, I love the themes and I follow them nearly every week. I do learn from others, and I am surely inspired by what I see here every day, but I have been at this (photograph) for more than 50 years. I would like to think that you youngsters would have something to learn from me. I have plenty of time to do my pictures every day and I devote much creative energy to it. Now the results are usually not that great, but every now and then I succeed. I had lots of positive comments about my photos of Alaska, but I live in Iowa and eventually I had to come home to my corn fields (which I love)
I tried starting a couple of other discussions and didn't get too far. One of my discussions was to ask who can remember doing photography before SLR and of course before digital. By the response to that I see that there are very very few of us.
I was just born too soon. I absolutely love everything electronic, I love computers and mp3 players and digital cameras. Now days when I look back over my life I think I wish I had been a professional photographer. But I was too poor and too lacking in self confidence to even consider it. Two things I know: there were amazing women photographers in the first half of the 20th century who could have been my role models and there are many people who start amazing artistic careers in their late 60's. The equipment now is amazing and very expensive, and there are, let's face it, many many great photographers both professional and non. I just don't see myself having the money or energy to do it now. So you all are my audience for better or worse. I love you all.
I was very shocked the first time I got a comment, as I didnt know that was part of it. Wasnt sure if I liked the fact that anyone could see and comment, I joined for more personal reasons that feeling popular or competative.
That said, I do now enjoy reading comments, esp if I've managed to make someone laugh, and I like to comment on other photo's when I've seen something I like - thats not because they might be arty, or anything. Just simply because I like them, and appreciate what was done.
The competitions I would never see as a competition really. For me they are just idea's so if someone is going through a rut (which we all seem to do occasionally) then its something else to focus on - pun intended! For me they are completely good, harmless fun, and something that a lot of on-line photography forums seem to do. But nobody has to to join in, its totally up to anyone how they chose to use 365.
Yes, I agree to an extent about the DSLR's being slightly better sometimes for making life easier (ie, manual exposure and being able to play around more) but as others have pointed out on other discussions, there are many people here that take smashing photographs with sure-shots, and even phone camera's. I think that the eye beats the equipment any day.
or maybe find another site?
I think 365 is just becoming soo popular that people are getting less and less views...if that makes sense. There are a TON of people on here...which means more pictures, and more likely for some to be missed.
Because lately I've been looking at photos and thinking there are less views and comments not only on my photos, but on a lot of the people I follow. I really think we need something for the awesome less viewed photos to get noticed!
Give me a DSLR any day. I used to pay a Kings ransom on processing only to find l might have one or two half decent images.
My wife has joined 365 as well now so you can imagine how it gets in our home sometimes! We fight for the DSLR but l am just as happy to use the P & S.
Maybe you have someone you know that might like to join 365 as well. I wish my Mum would do something like this instead of playing Bingo!!
Please don't lose hope!!!
All I have is a point and shoot, as well...but I try not to let it limit me.
I look at what others have done, and try to figure out how much I can re-create, or use in my own way!
I figure it's like that old Hertz commercial ( I am dating myself! ) "We're #2, so we try harder!"
( We don't really, we just have to challenge ourselves differently! )
I did a water shot yesterday, that I was particularly proud of, since I don't even have a tripod, and it actually ended up on the popular page on Sunday!
And, I have a confession to make regarding the themes and competitions...
There have been a couple of my entries...in particular the shadow theme and simplicity themes, where I thought, considering I use a point and shoot, they were stand-outs, so I was a bit disappointed that they weren't recognized, but only slightly.
That said, I took a deep gulp last week, and unsure whether or not I was doing the right thing, I posted one of my mastectomy scars, for the simplicity theme.
The reaction I received was overwhelming, some people told me it was an important image......so I got my hopes up that it might be chosen as one of the 5...or at least put on the popular page....which of course it wasn't.....which may or may not have to do with the fact that the thumbnail looked sort of like a loaf of bread or a meatloaf ( too funny! ), so it might not have even been seen by the powers that be!
But then, I had to slap myself upside the head, and remember what the real prize was. ;-)
( I'm still going to keep trying for those competitions, though! It keeps me motivated and energized! )
Don't give up!
And don't worry about feeling a little jealous! It just means that you are human!
Off to look at YOUR pics, now! ;-)
Personally, I like the ideas of a top 5 / top 20 and choose to see it in a different light. It gives an example of what's achievable and ideas of things to try in future andI hope to be able to give some of these photos a try myself.
P.S. dont get distressed about Lauren and Barb, they're lovely, amazingly talented and not mere mortals like us ;)
I would never look at 365 in a competitive way. This is a place where you can be who you want. Follow themes if you wish, and learn from others around you.
Personally I have utilised 365 as a way to learn how to use my camera, and along the way have thoroughly enjoyed viewing some great photography.
I have learnt a lot, and appreciate the recognition I occasionally get.
I dont do this compete I do this to relax, and to get better at something I now really love!
Any way... What I think is ..competition is a way of life... only when we try to compete and do better than what we did the last time......But we should not let the competition disappoint us... its should encourage us..
Appreciation comes our way when we start appreciating others.....
and the most important thing for me is that I should be happy with what I did to get that picture.... for me the experience is the most important.. which I will remember... and which will be worth sharing with the pictures...
I hoped I made it clear, I love this group and I think it is a kind, supportive group of people. I appreciate every kind remark more than anyone would ever know. I also appreciate everyone who took the time to answer this thread. I try really hard to comment on amazing photographs that catch my eye and watch for people who do good work and don't have a lot of followers or comments.
I like seeing the theme photos a lot and I peruse the popular photos every day and my eyes pop out with amazement. I still think the top 20 list is strictly a popularity contest so it doesn't do much for me.
I had photos that appeared in the popular site several times back a month or so ago. It just did wonders for my ego. But lately (since coming back from Alaska) I have been in a slump, everyone probably knows about post amazing vacation slump.
Oh and I joined Ace to support the project not to get my statistics, that was an unfortunate side effect for me. Those statistics are sort of like the old thing that happened in grade school where you listed who you liked and passed it on to your neighbor.....WAYYYY before texting.
I haven't joined Ace because I am on a number of photo sites including Flickr and Phanfare and have paid to upgrade there that I am not ready to do another one.
@Lauren, you make a good point about more people make it less likely to view the pictures and members you want to. I find that with all the people I follow I would have to be online almost constantly to see everyone's pics. If i come on in the evening and scroll through my homepage I might only get about thirty or so thumbnails and captions, missing all the ones earlier in the day. If I want to see someone's pics, like yours, I would have to seek them out.
What am I trying to say here? I don't know, just rambling, which I do quite often. As for your saying your restricted by your location, I would disagree. As part of the alphabet challenge I made most of the twenty six shots without leaving my house and yard. Even now many of my pics are from the house and yard. So, unless you have a desire for panoramic shots, close to home is good enough.
Okay, now I think I am done.
@Susan - I did read down to the bottom :) ...but yes I am in highschool. My senior year will be starting soon...kinda scary :X but I really appreciate what you said. that means a lot.
I also try my best to comment and respond to people as much as I can...but no matter what...a ton of people are always left in the dust! but I can't help it...I get busy...and even if I spend 3 hours on here I dont feel satisfied and cant get through all the people. So I guess what I'm saying is that we can only do our best and live life. What I try to do is to AT LEAST comment on peoples pictures who commented on my picture for that day. It makes it easy to click on their profile, comment, then hit back and go down the list. That is like my way of saying thank you for your comment...because I really appreciate the time and effort poeple go through to seek out people and to comment because the WANT to. I love doing that too...just wish I could 24/7 lol
and top 20 IS for popularity...but I think more people will learn to like it as time goes by...I'm not sure what to say about it...but that it is a FRIENDLY competition :)
and I'm not an Ace member or whatever...not even sure what it all comes with. I'm considering it though...
@Rayswrld - Yea see I have the same problem. I'm following TOO many people to comment and keep up with...but I do my best....following is also a good way to say "hey, I support you, your work, and your personality"...even if I cant comment on everybody's picture for that day...or they have the same problem....it is still an honor to be followed or TO follow...does that make sense?
oh and dont worry about the rambling thing. as you can see I have the same "issue" hahaha
Please don't fall into the trap of just clicking onto EVERYONE and start following them. There is no way you can keep up with everyone when you pass 40 or so people. I would feel completely out of control if l was following 500 odd people. Its ridiculous. I am going to restrict myself to 40 or so and if l see anyone worth following after that then l will delete someone who is not as good, in my eyes!
But, having said all that, its what each individual is happy with. Its just my view and l am not saying its right or wrong. Thought l had better add that before all those 300+ follow collectors have a go!
As far as the "Popular" page, I'm not a fan of that either. In fact, I find it somewhat embarrassing and really have no idea how it's generated. The one upside on it, is that sometimes it can direct you to somebody's photo that you may have missed.
Personally, my photos are concepts in my head and I don't claim to be a great photographer but I strive to be better technically. If I make people laugh or make people think, then that's a bonus. The writer in me, I guess.
As far as Followers--I do follow everyone that follows me, simply because this forum is a give and take. (And I do go through everyone's photos throughout the day. I find it relaxing and candy for my eyes.) I think the bottom line is to have creative fun and share ideas.
Hehe, giggling now. The simplicity photo was taken with a DSLR and a fancy lens, and yep, am proud of making it look like a sure-shot!!
Am very happy that it made you feel better and a little less disheartened.
Hugs
Plus, I am just a beginner as far as photography goes. If I spent too much time browsing the Popular page and themes, I would get discouraged, figure I can never be that good, and quit.
I stick to the Latest page when browsing. I get to see lots of other people's shots and find people I want to follow who seem to have talent without being over the top.
As far as my project...I just try to take pretty pictures. Part of my reason for coming here has been to stretch myself into looking, planning, and shooting better photos. And to document my life. The life takes first priority, though, when it comes down to it.
And I do like this site for all the friendliness I have found. I have not seen anyone putting down others' photos in comments. That is a big plus for someone as fragile as I am. ;)
Like you say people are naturally competative and will tend to think competitivly in some way if only small.
As for the weekly theme.. it is a competition but IMO competition is what gives us some of our motivation in life, hobbies, business ect. I think it only makes us strive to do better.. which is why Im here. To show my photos, find inspiration and learn from others
What I didn't expect, but have received, in the month I've been active here is the support and comfirmation that I do have an eye for a shot. I have also learned from other's pictures to see the world a little differently that my view has always been. It's not changed, but it's broadened a bit. And that's a good thing.
So basically, I think that this project is what you make it. It can be a competition if that's what you're here for. But you certainly don't have to get caught up in that. I just love photography and love seeing the world thru other ppls lenses. And I hope that along the way, someone enjoys seeing my view as well.
Highs or lows, just keep on snapping pictures anyway!
I personally like the stats, I like the new top 20, still haven't made the top 20 but on days I care to put more into my photos I'm thinking about what it takes to make that list. It makes me think beyond what I normally shoot, it adds excitement to the days I truly care, and the days I just need a shot I couldn't care less if I don't even get a comment, I know its a bad photo.