subject: Technique, Composition and Emotion: key components of a good photo critique [print this page] Technique, Composition and Emotion: key components of a good photo critique
If you're new to the business of photo critiquing and are unsure of where to start don't worry! Lots of people feel like this at first because they're concerned they're not qualified to pass judgement on the work of others. Whether or not you're a photographer yourself, there is still plenty of room for your opinions so don't be shy.
There are several key components to writing a good photo critique, but if you don't feel confident in all of them, you could just focus on one. The main thing is that you provide the photographer whose work you're reviewing with honest, considered feedback.
The first aspect of a good photo critique relates to the technique used in the photograph. You don't have to review the photographer's use of every technique that's ever been invented, but just pick out the key ones. Sometimes the photographer will ask for feedback on a particular aspect of their work, so you can use this as a guide for your review.
Typically, your technique review should include the exposure, focus, depth of field and the lighting. You don't have to write reams on any of them: a few key, well-thought out comments can be much more useful than masses of prose that it will take the photographer ages to wade through. Keeping things brief will also help you hone your critiquing skills.
Secondly, you should look at the composition of the photograph and whether you feel it is successful. This basically involves reviewing how the photograph looks.
For example, where in the photograph is the key part of the image located? Do you think it's in the right place or should it be elsewhere? Is there any wasted space in the photo that could have been eradicated through a tighter crop?
These are the sorts of issues you need to consider in relation to composition, along with colour and balance.
Finally, the third component of a good photo critique is the emotion you glean from the photo simply put, how the picture makes you feel. This component is a good place for beginners to start by asking themselves key questions about the picture.
These questions could include: what mood do you think is portrayed in the picture and do you think it's what the photographer intended? Do you get a sense of story from the photo? Do you like it? Why or why not?
Answering these questions will not only help you as a reviewer but the photographer whose work you're critiquing, so even if you've never done it before, be brave and have a go!
You can find out more about the art of photo critique at www.gurushots.com.
