Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

An apology, of sorts ....
I came on like gangbusters here, a few weeks ago, and put up some 52 posts (one for each week of the year) in a fairly short time. In some, I was asking for help with one problem or another, but, in many, I was asking for opinions, and in some, it would seem as though I were taking a survey of some sort. That particular dozen questions, were pre-written, on another computer (as were many of the others) and then transferred from there to the forum, here. (No survey.)
Many of them were quite sensible, but some were deterrents - I realize that, now. I don't think those, in question, intentionally, set out to hurt anyone, but, apparently - some did.
Judging from the most recent response on the thread at which so many took offense, the thought really got under people's skin. To be honest, I never thought so many would take offense to it. I thought I'd get some feedback as well-thought-out as the question itself.
However, hostility abounded, and then filtered over into some of my other posts. Much of it was uncalled for, and when I reacted in an equally hostile manner, people lost interest in answering my questions, and - in fact, some started a movement to ban me from the site - as ineffective as my Topic Post suggestion sarcastic commentary should be banned. It seems the right to free speech holds as true on a Photographic Forum as it does elsewhere in America.
So, here it is - a week later, and I've not spent anywhere near as much time in the past week, as I did during the first two or three. Although I've been monitoring comments, continually, I've been careful not to comment much, in fear of having yet another barrage of negative comments thrown at me. It's not fun, believe me, being called stupid, and a moron.
The last couple of Topic Posts I made, of the 52 - sought to get away from the technical side, and back to the art and technique of photography. Thankfully, although the one on Technique did not score so well, the one on Photography as an Alternate Art Form, resonated, and the comments and follow-on to that one have been largely appropriate, and well-received.
Judging from some of the comments made in other posts (not mine) - my main problem in the posts I made was in not alluding to the general good feeling (and intelligence) pre-existent here, before I entered the fray. By omitting to do so, apparently, I ruffled as many feathers, as were ruffled on my back, by the general caliber of many of the return responses.
So, even though it may well be too late, I thought it might be appropriate to offer this olive branch to all, and ask that we get back to the idea of quiet and intelligent discussion concerning both the elements of photography, and the art, along with balanced reflection on finding the appropriate tools for the work at hand.

Peace to all ...

skylinefirepest Loc: Southern Pines, N.C.

Accepted!

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

I thank you for that, Skyline ...

{bows}

robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

OK

Relax and try to enjoy the forum. It isn't a crusade and we aren't giving out grades or awards for most posts. Pick one sub forum or type of photography at a time and go slower.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

The kind of participation you get will be directly connected to what you ask and how you ask it.
I have no problem with any questions. If they don't pertain to me, I just move on!!! I've not been offended in any way, but I have scratched my head a few times!! LoL
I personally respond better to a post where a problem needs to be solved!
Good luck!!!
SS

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

I have, Robert ... thanks ...

I've joined the new Commercial and Product Photography segment ...

I look forward to it, with much relish ...

Cheers!

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

Yes, I realize that, now, Sharp ...

You know, it's funny how this works. Now, there's 57 Topic Posts of mine. Many of them requested help, but most of those have been relegated to the rear. And some have never been responded to even once. Four new ones went up today, prior to this. And one of those - has been totally disregarded. It's curious, as to how it works. I'm curious, now ... which ones made you scratch your head? ... If you tell me, I shall review them and try to sort out any misunderstandings ....

GoofyNewfie Loc: Kansas City

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

This is a new day. Let’s start over. How can we help you?

And, NO, I will not fix your ceiling.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

LoL, Chris, I couldn't even begin to tell you which ones, and surly are not gonna go back and look!
Maybe it's some of the ones that got no responce, maybe others were scratching as well?!
Keep on asking, but if they don't pertain to most, few will reply!
See you in the new sections. Post some pics, they are worth a 1000 words!!! LoL
SS

bluechris Loc: Grapeview, WA

I have been on UHH for a few years and have noticed that there are many kinds of people on the hog. I have seen some very crass remarks and some very nice ones. Some people like to trash someone's work just for the sake of it. There was a discussion sometime ago what constitutes a photo and a snapshot. I will not go into the discussion, but it got to be a heated subject and some good and bad words were put down. I have long found out that photography is a purely subjective subject as it means different things to people who take photos. I try to understand people's point of view and see how the photo presents that view. I have my own biases, we all do, and if someone asks for a critique if I feel strongly I will give it in a way that does not denigrate the person's work. I have no idea how sensitive a person is about their work or how they will react. But, I try to be mindful about that. I also realize that the trashers will be a part of the hog and I read them quickly and move on. I accept that humans come in all temperaments and talents.

tdekany Loc: Oregon

I had zero issues with your threads. On the other hand, I am totally against censorship. I couldn't believe some of the replies. Or the thread that was started to ban you. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought that some of the replies came from North Korean communists.

Your topics created some much needed spice. Look how many replies you have received! I guess if it is not you, it is the other newbies starting threads asking about camera recommendations or the brown trucks etc... but these old goats keep complaining.

To me it shows that when you let a bunch of old farts loose, the results are never goood.

There was no reason for you to apologize. The ONLY person that matters is the ADMIN. Everyone else is a guest with a free pass. How do they forget that?

Last time I looked, this was still the United States Of America, unfortunately so many of the "citizens" seem to be leaning towards the mentality they so hated about the former Soviet Union.

Again, you didn't do anything wrong.

Kmgw9v Loc: Miami, Florida

I was more offended by those that sought to censor you, than I was by your posts.

jmvaugh Loc: Albuquerque

Chris - I have limited experience with forums to match my even more limited experience with photography. I enjoyed some of the thought-provoking questions you asked and it sometimes sent me looking through my owners manuals, photography books, or some of the links that Jerryc41 provides. Some of the reactions to the questions or responses clearly reminded me that if I want validation for work, my opinions, my choice of camera, lenses, or photography budget, a forum is the absolute last place to get it.

That said, I was not offended, I’m glad you’re here, I look forward to reading great tutorials in the Commercial section.

Peace Brother ✌️

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

Thanks, Goofy ... leave it to you to supply some REAL relish ...

What? ... No sauerkraut?