Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Want to learn from this site? I have seen so many images that are over sharpened, halos around there images, poor exposure, and the list goes on. So the question is "Do you want to hear what can improve your image or getting compliments is all you need? I ask this because I see the issues and yet the compliments go on and I just don't say anything because I think I will be the odd man out. Tell me please and I know I am not the only one here that sees that issue. What are you thoughts. Now remember I am not talking about a full critique but just gentle observations that would help the newbie improve.

russelray Loc: La Mesa CA

The problem with "gentle observations" is that few people know how to be gentle. For example, too often the critique starts out, "You need to...." In my mind gentle begins, "I would have...." or "If that was my picture, here's what I would do...." or "If I had been there, I would have...."

Jim Bob

I think your observations answer your inquiry. If you wish to become persona non grata offer constructive criticism on someone's image. Fortunately for me, I don't give a sh*t if no one likes me on this forum. I'm not here to make friends and making enemies doesn't bother me in the least. But I am in the vast minority. Most posters tend to praise images no matter how poorly focus or composed, fuzzy or otherwise deficient they happen to be. Mediocrity is the new standard.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

There are a number of different sections on UHH, each with it's own purpose. Here is a link to a list of those sections: http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/all-section-list
Photo Gallery is for general sharing of photos. If someone is looking for more than that there are the Photo Analysis and Photo Critique sections which offer more pointed comments and suggestions. There are also specialty sections for different types of photography where, in addition to sharing photos of the relevant subject matter, suggestions for improvement are offered.
Many people just want to share their efforts with others without much in the way of critique (Photo Gallery), while others may not be aware of the different sections where critique is offered.

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

I agree with you totally!

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Thanks, Mac!

ReFlections Loc: From LA to AL

It's always best to commend first-Especially new posters. Learning is progressive. Some can take the positive critiques and some- being more sensitive- can't. I have seen some pics that I liked but others didn't. I have seen some I didn't like but other Hogs have helped me to appreciate the artistic or photographic value. I do understand that in some cases more work is needed. I have seen several here give constructive criticism. There are others here who are just critical. over all, the Hogs here do a good job of helping others. Don't want to crush the newbies. My motto is commend first, regardless, then gently offer constructive criticism.

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Yes, I think your right...so not fair to someone trying to learn.

Nikocarol Loc: NM & FL

Yes, That sounds like that would work.

abc1234 Loc: Elk Grove Village, Illinois

Well, I am another odd person out. I dropped almost all subscribed groups for the reasons you state. While some moderators may profess they want thoughtful comments whether flattering, suggesting improvements, pointing out problems or otherwise, in reality, they do not and they punish you for it. They also tolerate inane, useless comments and emoticons as being thoughtful or helpful. Despite having learned a lot and received compliments for my critiques and photos, I felt this was all more of a high school popularity contest. I do admit that some of my posts can be pointed but that is not an excuse for a moderator to remove them without even giving me the courtesy of telling me. They are not moderators but censors. Let the person who does not like my comment speak up for herself or himself. How does the moderator know that person objects to my comment?

This began as such an informative site but the quality of the discourse has certainly suffered. I have discussed this with others and noted how some very strong contributors comment much less or have disappeared altogether.

I have not thought much about how to fix these problems. Perhaps, moderators should not be participants in their own forums. Or, terse, uninformative posts and emoticons should be removed. Or have the moderators add their criticisms to posts they do not like rather than removing them. Or about term limits for moderators? Or have the replies count the number of letters and not save the comment until a minimum has been reached?

Now, if you want to start another battle, let us talk about some of the miserable grammar people use here. I am not talking about typos that we all make but rather the garbled, unintelligible, mangled writing some people think is acceptable.

Kmgw9v Loc: Miami, Florida

We know that there are many unremarkable images posted; and they are inappropriately complimented. That is a disservice to all.

If I post a good image, tell me. If I post a lousy image. tell me that too; and further tell me would I could have done to make it better. I will listen.

ptcanon3ti Loc: NJ

Agreed 100%.

This sight has become embarrassingly sub par.

abc1234 Loc: Elk Grove Village, Illinois

As is your spelling. Regardless, I agree with you.

warrior Loc: Paso Robles CA