As photographers, we live to capture life's beauty through our camera's lens. But let's face it, no matter how skilled we become, we can't run from the dreaded criticism.
Sometimes it's tough to swallow hearing a critique on something you've spilled your soul into. However, it doesn't have to be negative. You can turn constructive feedback into motivation to become a better photographer. Let's learn how to embrace those critiques!
How to Deal with Criticism as a Photographer:
- Everyone starts somewhere
- Take your personal feelings out of feedback
- Share your work with the general public
- Don't feel nervous to ask for feedback
- Differentiate the type of criticism
- Don't only ask the pros for feedback
Everyone Starts Somewhere
Everyone was a beginner at some point. Don't feel discouraged if your photos aren't as good as the pros. Remember, we all start somewhere, and that's perfectly okay. No one expects you to master the craft overnight.
Think about learning to ride a bike. It takes time and dedication. Photography is no different. Embracing the learning curve is part of the process. No matter how polished their work may seem, every photographer who gave you feedback on your shots was a beginner once.
Read our photography articles to help you improve.
Take Your Personal Feelings out of Feedback
It's hard to remove your feelings when you feel passionate about something you've put your all into. However, we need to train our hearts to take a step back.
Release the grip of personal attachment to our images. Embrace it with an open mind, knowing that each piece of feedback brings you closer to the photographer you aspire to be. When you learn to depersonalize criticism, it becomes a powerful source of fuel.
Share Your Work with the General Public
It's just part of the business. Anytime the mass public views something, a flood of critiques comes in. So, it's almost like, "suck it up, buttercup." Many industries require thick skin, and this is one of them.
As you share your images with the world, prepare yourself: your work will be scrutinized by keen-eyed observers, seeking every hidden nuance.
Brace yourself for the discerning gaze of critiques – those invaluable mentors who intentionally seek the tiniest imperfections to nurture your growth as an artist. Are your subjects sharp and beautifully in focus? Is the posing complimentary, enhancing the essence of your subjects? Does the exposure dance gracefully between light and shadow? And, oh, those elusive distractions in the background – will they steal the spotlight from your subject? Welcome the art of scrutiny with a smile.
Don't Feel Nervous to Ask for Feedback
Ask photographers who have more experience to critique your photos. Some will gracefully offer guidance, while others might be snooty and simply point out the flaws in your work without providing solutions. Feel free to ask for clarification when you receive feedback that leaves you wondering how to improve. If your subject lacks that razor-sharp focus, muster the courage to ask for tips on camera settings.
Remember, be willing to learn. Those who generously share their knowledge with you will recognize your sincerity.
Differentiate the Type of Criticism
A crucial aspect of handling criticism involves figuring out its true nature. Before letting it impact you, verifying its validity and purpose is essential. Is the remark substantive, aiming to express an opinion, or simply fueled by dislike? Is there a genuine intention to provide meaningful insight, or is it merely a stream of insults?
These questions can help you gauge whether the criticism holds value. It's also crucial to differentiate between genuine mistakes and differences in artistic styles and personal tastes. Once you've considered these aspects, you can generally determine the validity of the criticism.
If the criticism is found to be incorrect or invalid, it serves as a reminder that you are on the right path with your photographs. However, if the observations are valid, there is much to gain from them. Constructive criticism, though sometimes stinging, is not inherently negative.
Don't Only Ask the Pros for Feedback
Although the pros have more knowledge, you can still ask your friends and family what they think of your photographs. They might not be able to give technical tips, but they will be able to offer insight into what the general public will think.
Your close circle represents a cross-section of the general public, individuals who may not have specialized knowledge in photography but possess a powerful tool – relatability. Their reactions to your photographs mirror the response you may receive from a broader audience. Their emotional reactions and honest opinions can serve as a litmus test, helping you gauge how your work resonates with a broader spectrum of viewers.
Welcome critique to fuel your passion for becoming better, exploring deeper, and telling stories that resonate with the world. Remember, none of us start perfect, but through the gift of feedback, we find ourselves unfolding into the remarkable photographers we are meant to be.
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