Reply To: How to avoid being called a fauxtographer in 10 steps

[IHF]

Brownie, The way I see it, is if the critic took the time to explain themselves and where they feel you fall short or what they feel you are doing wrong, then listen.  Have a discussion if you disagree, and/or pick their brain for as long as you have them, and learn as much as possible from them.  In the world of photography criticism is a rare gift (at least in my experience, I have to go searching for it) Obviously the critic gives a care, otherwise they would have said nothing at all.  I’ve actually been asked to critique “pros” before, even after explaining that I am in the process of learning and am just a novice.  So I take my time and give them the best CC I am able to give, given my current knowledge, and I get responses that make it look as though all I said was “You suck, don’t quit your day job”.  WOW!  I just spent a half an hour or more out of my day to help you, and this is what I get in return?  I’ve even had people resort to name calling.  Really?  Just because I said “your exposure is all over the place and it looks as though you are using automatic modes, instead of telling the camera what to do?” or the like.  Never would I ever do that to someone who cared enough to take their time with me, especially if I was SEEKING help or CC from them.  If you are a photographer people, criticism and the advice that goes with it, is the very best gift you can receive.  Treat the deliverer of this gift with respect, and thank them, even if you think they are dead wrong.  Chances are they aren’t, and later down the road you’ll wish you had talked to them more and hadn’t burned that bridge.