I agree! But I also try to be careful. DPC rewards (with high votes) only certain types of photos--namely, those that are dramatic and cause instant reaction. Complex photos about which one needs to think or study do not do well in the challenges, yet there are many great photographers who have shot and who do shoot such photos.
Perhaps some would disagree with me, but I think there is a wider range of "good" photography than what is "rewarded" here, just like there are different styles and forms of visual art. The "Mona Lisa" would not do well here; the background is weird and it takes more than a cursory glance to see the mastery of the painting at work. Likewise, many paintings by Picasso or Pollack would not do well here. However, DPC is incredible at showing us new techniques, hone other techniques, find new subjects to try, and try other new things out. I really admire many of the wonderful photographers on this site who have never won a ribbon, yet who consistently put out wonderful work.
I am always pleased when I see something from a good photo, and then try a technique from that shot, and it works. For me, thats a big hurrah! |