How To Make A Critique - DPChallenge Forums

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

07/22/2003 12:11:05 PM · #1

I found this article in the old forum messages this morning and I plan on reading it and pick up some pointers.

I thought some of the other new members may appreciate this article also, so I thought I would repost it.

It was originally posted by Gordon.

Making A Critique:

A critique is a written or verbal evaluation of a photograph based on careful observation. It does not do to just say "I like the photograph". The critique must mention what you like and why you like it. Here are some guidelines on what you should look at and consider making comments about in a photo:

(1) COMPOSITION -CONTENT - This is what the photograph is saying. What is the Center of Interest in the photograph? Where does your eye come to rest in viewing the photo? If there is more than one focus point does that add to the photographs interest or distract from it? Where was the Center of Interest placed within the frame of the photo? Did they use the rule of thirds? What other eye control elements are in the photo (leading lines, contrast, diagonal lines, etc). Did the photographer get close enough to the subject to include only what is important? In other words, are there wasted parts of the frame that contain items not adding to the message of the photo?

(2) BACKGROUND - How did the photographer use the tools of selective focus or depth of field to deal with the background? Is the background simplified, included or a solid or is it nonexistent? How does the background add or distract from the message of the photo?

(3) CAMERA WORK -TECHNICAL - Exposure and focus begin in the camera. Is the subject sharp and clearly in focus? Are part of the photo that need to be clearly focused out of focus? Exposure is observed in the details of the shadow area. A properly exposed photo will have some texture in the shadows. Is the photo exposed properly and give some evidence of what you see? Contrast in processing the film or the contrast of the photo paper effects the highlights in a photo. Is there detail visible in the brightest parts of the print? If there are areas of the print that lack detail is that good or bad?

(4) CRAFTSMANSHIP - Does the photo have stains, spots, dust and scratches? Is it nicely displayed in the frame or is it just slapped in? Does the photograph look like care was made in making it or is there evidence that the person just rushed it?

(5) YOUR OPINION ON THE PHOTO - What do you like about the subject? Is it an emotional shot, a story, a statement, a humorous photo, or what? Is there anything about the photograph that you would do differently if you were the photographer and had the chance to do the same shot?

Calvus

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

07/22/2003 12:19:25 PM · #2

There is also this Tutorial on Giving and Receiving Feedback by Patella.

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS

07/22/2003 12:23:16 PM · #3

Thanks Paul, I did not realize that was there.

Since joining DPC I have been overwhelmed with information and links for everything. I am tring to organize them now :)

Calvus

ellamay

Canon EOS-1D Mark II

07/22/2003 12:41:54 PM · #4

thanks for posting this--is helpful in giving critiques for sure.

07/22/2003 12:43:35 PM · #5

No problem, I'am glad I found it and I'am glad that Gordon posted it originally.

Calvus

A Weaver

Sony DSLR-A100

07/22/2003 12:57:37 PM · #6

This really helped refresh my memory. I just recently started photography. I used to critique Art work and paintings in Art class when I was in High School. Thanks for the refresh!

A Weaver

Sony DSLR-A100

07/22/2003 01:00:25 PM · #7

P.S. I printed this page out so I can have a quick refrence for my future votes. thanks again

Gordon

RIM BlackBerry Curve

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM

07/22/2003 01:03:46 PM · #8

This was originally from //www.scphoto.com/html/critiques.html