billnourse Loc: Bloomfield, NM

No one suggested that a person is a lesser photographer for not posting pics, but if you are going to INSIST that you have the RIGHT to criticize and correct someone else's work, you should have examples of what gives you that expertise. I can tell you how to be a rocket scientist, but it is meaningless unless I can demonstrate that I have some knowledge of such matters. My rank stupidity might be showing, but don't tell me you have the RIGHT to correct my work if I can't see examples of yours. And don't be correcting my stuff, no matter how badly it is needed unless I give you permission to do so.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

Joe, as pointed out here and in the thread you reference, the unrequested edits were done in Photo Gallery.

The average age of members on UHH is probably 70 years old. The majority of folks are hobbyists, many have physical challenges and many are limited in their social and familial interactions. Accept that the Gallery section of UHH is is primarily used just for social sharing and not necessarily about getting "better" - the definition of which is going to vary widely, of course.

You will often find OP's asking for feedback, so for those who wish to share their opinions regarding how to improve a photo, why not hold your well intended observations for those who actually request it, and for the sections on UHH specifically organized for critique and detailed opinions?

Other ideas: keep track of new members via the intro section and send them message alerts about the worthwhile topics, or enlist the more talented (in your opinion) new folks to create tutorials. Or offer to mentor those who have asked for guidance. Find the people who are asking for help, or be proactive with positive teaching topics and stop obsessing over those who have no interest in your advice, no matter how well meaning you think it may be.

billnourse Loc: Bloomfield, NM

Best response yet.

canon Lee

#1 in my opinion Yes... To the photographer that posts their shots I say; other than your opinions and your friends, would anyone buy your shot? There is a certain degree of uncertainty, in the mind of the poster if they dont ask for a critique, but when anyone gives his opinion the poster gets upset.... Its only when you make a living selling shots that mediocrity, poor editing, blown highlights and lack of detail in the blacks, matters... How much interest is there for anyone to buy a picture of your pet, or a walk in the woods or beach.....
Local camera clubs is where you get that "pat" on the shoulder by the friends in your club...

pithydoug Loc: Catskill Mountains, NY

True bit there are forums that specifically allow this and in my opinion you get a real critique. It's often too hard to use words to describe what hew you feel a photo can be improved. Seeing is Seeing, words are just words.

Joe Blow

As with most of the comments, yours too is about me instead of the actual questions I posed. That doesn't lessen the value of your opinion or comments, but several of your points act as an excuse to the problem that I addressed with the question. And this isn't about me but it does show that many here would rather be hypocrites than look at what I posed.

It should be important to anyone with an interest or hobby to understand their passion, and, regardless of their age or ability, to grow their understanding. Whether it is flower arrangement, cooking, or photography; those who either think they are good enough or just don't care aren't doing themselves any favors.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

Joe, I apologize for not making it clear that "you" was meant to be inclusive rather than directed at you specifically -- except that you felt strongly enough about the problem, as you call it, to create an entirely new topic to expand on jaymatt's, so yeah I guess on reflection I did mostly mean you

We see different problems: the one I see is the few folks on UHH who wish to impose their subjective opinions on other folks who don't desire to hear them. I spent some time browsing your comment history and what impressed me is that you usually take the time to explain why you are suggesting a certain change or voicing a criticism. The "why" is hugely important IMO since it gives the photographer a basis for interpreting and assimilating reactions or advice into their own goals or interests.

But I still am puzzled why you feel it's necessary for you - or anyone - to force someone else to "grow their understanding" in the forum called Photo Gallery when there are usually daily postings to For Your Consideration, a few random postings to critique forum now and then, and often daily requests for feedback in many other sections (plus those who specifically request assistance or opinions in Gallery). When someone insists on giving critique where none is requested - or expected - to me that speaks more to the arrogance of the critique-giver than to any failing on the part of the photographer.

Bill_de Loc: US

Why doesn't it lead you to the rules of the Photo Gallery Section which is very specific on the topic? The problem is that people refuse to follow rules. There are sections which invite and are intended for critiques. If rules were followed there would have been no excuse for this thread.

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robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

Well, as far as my pictures are concerned: Just read my signature line. I invite it. But just remember, if you come up with a better version of my image that I like - - - I WILL CLAIM IT!

E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

Much ado...

Keep it simple! I answere many questions on this forum. I will only offer a critique if is expected, as in a critique section or when it is requested. If I feel I need to make an edit on the OP's images in order to illustrate a point, make suggestions or offer instructions, I ASK PERMISSION to do any kind of editing, manipulation or alteration to the said images. I tend to ask if folks actually want a critique.

Asking permission is simply common courtesy and a protocol that should always be observed. Even if some members say, in their profile, that it's OK to edit ther images, I still prefer to ask and secure permission. Mutual respect makes for a better forum, avoids unpleasant encounters and hostilities.

Sometimes, I am even reluctant to post one on my own examples to make a point as it might be misconstrued as one upmanship. Again, I ask if they would like to see my interpretation of a similar image.

Most of the folks I communicate with here, appreciate this "policy".

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

Touched a nerve, did I?

E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

By the way, there is a good way to present a critique, that is a constructive one. There should be some kind of framework or criteria that everyone can understand. The critic should point out the attributes of any given image- not only the points that need improvement. A good critique should transcend personal tastes and styles, on the part of the critic, and address the image based on on the artistry, technique and presentation. The critique should be honest and straightforward but never harsh, demanding or discouraging. When mistakes or needs for improvement are point out, some remedy or corrective measures should be included.

A critique that compliments mediocre or poor work or an overly harsh approach are equally destructive and a disservice to the maker of any image.

Heather Iles Loc: UK, Somerset

How right you are regarding the reasons for not posting images. I am still learning but I am reasonably good at critiquing a photo even though my photos are not wonderful. I am reluctant to post as some members can be very harsh. If I wanted critique I would post in the correct section and wouldn't expect or want to be told it is a good photo. I want to be told how I could have improved that photo.

Showing photos in the photo section is different as some members take a lot of photos and therefore want to share them with the rest of the members. For that reason, a comment can be given or just move on.

I do look at the sections where I think that I will learn from the most and join in from time to time if I think I can. Sometimes it is to enlighten me further or for whatever reason.

I must add that it is very kind of members to give up their time to help others and the wider community such as me. You never know who is looking and learning silently. It shouldn't be forgotten that we are at different levels and most of us are retired and do it as a hobby and just want to do better, hence being here on UHH. I just stumbled across UHH. One day it just popped up while doing a search and I stayed. I just love the site especially since other folks have disappeared and I don't mean lovely Linda from Mayne.

Have a good day.

H

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

If you use the the link Active Topics at the top of the page, you'll likely avoid finding and spending time responding to topics that were last updated in March 2018.

R.G. Loc: Scotland

The main reason for posting in the Gallery is to share. In those cases where the OP is looking for feedback they will usually request it, and in the few cases where re-edits are OK, the OP will usually specify that too.