This week's theme is a THE BEST IN SHOW.
The Annual CC Exhibition is calling for an entry from each member. All and everything is allowed, no specified subject or genre, just your best picture taken during the week in question. All members, especially those not entering to vote on the BEST IN SHOW.
Pictures to be taken between 00.01am Monday 19th August 2013 to 23:59 Sunday 25th August 2013.
Pictures to be posted in the entries thread no later than 23.59pm Monday 26th August 2013.
Poll will be up Tuesday 27th August 2013.
Winner to be announced Saturday 1st Sept. 2013.
The Rules for the weekly competition are...
By entering you agree to take responsibility to
Post a topic on the Sunday following your declared win
Create an entries thread
Create a chat thread
Create a poll for that weeks comp and declare the winner on the Saturday
(if for any reason there is a problem and no subject is posted by the winner by Monday night admin will advise second place winner to post the topic asap, do the poll etc.)
In case of a tie, the first entry posted wins.
Photos to be taken during the specified dates, ie Monday xx to Sunday xx
Pictures to be posted in the entries thread no later than 23.59 Monday night.
Not being tied down to a specific subject may encourage CC members to enter the competition. Let's have sight of your personal style, your take on your favourite genre. All will be winners, but one will BEST IN SHOW. :tup:
Love the idea, but it may make it even more difficult to make up my mind! If I manage to get some decent shots this week, that is. The past week was rather dismal.
Brilliant idea Alan.
Perhaps when the poll is set there should be more than one vote available - :-\ :tup:
Quote from: Beaux Reflets on August 18, 2013, 11:07:23 AM
Brilliant idea Alan.
Perhaps when the poll is set there should be more than one vote available - :-\ :tup:
Steady on Andy, I've yet to fathom out how to do the poll ??? let alone allow more than one vote. Anyway it's THE BEST IN SHOW. :tup:
OOO I like it!
Haha...well, I did mean the comp theme.......
Finally had a good morning's hunting. Might even have got my competition entry.
this will be my entry:
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11373/normal_poker.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14186&fullsize=1)
the trickiest shot i've attempted yet(!). took a LONG time to get the setup and lighting ok.
Hi Alex,
You've got your entry in good and early. Please don't misunderstand this as I don't mean to criticise it in any way. However, you've got till Sunday night to take another. Are you sure you're not going to take a better one - even by accident - before then?
(I spent all last night trying to shoot a specific photo for this comp and failed dismally. But I might get another chance later in the week. If not, come Sunday I'll try to choose between photos taken for other reasons.)
Simon
Thanks Simon - I figured I'd enter this one now so I don't forget, then I can always swap it if I take something better!
I'm not planning on taking any more pictures this week after I've redone today's efforts. But, as you say Simon, we can always change our minds if we suddenly get an unexpected stunner.
It will be one of mine from Mondays trip to the wildlife park or a pre wedding shoot I have on in Stratford on Sunday as I have not other time / plans
I've got three candidates already, and I haven't finished taking photographs yet.
What to go for? The three I've so far set aside fall in the categories of cute, humour and 'reality.' They're all street scenes. I tend to take photographs 'on the hoof' and hardly ever set something up.
Had a dash over the local Common this afternoon, but at first glance the results are not quite what I hoped. Haven't seen them on screen yet, so that's what I am going to do now.
It will be difficult to choose the ultimate winner, as there will be (I hope) many different types/styles and genres.
Better get back to work now.
Quote from: Reinardina on August 21, 2013, 07:23:41 PM
It will be difficult to choose the ultimate winner, as there will be (I hope) many different types/styles and genres.
That's the idea R, mind you Alex has set the bar pretty high already! :tup:
Quote from: ABERS on August 21, 2013, 10:33:34 PM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 21, 2013, 07:23:41 PM
It will be difficult to choose the ultimate winner, as there will be (I hope) many different types/styles and genres.
That's the idea R, mind you Alex has set the bar pretty high already! :tup:
I know. My entry will be totally different; not set up, but shot 'in the wild.'
A totally diferent kettle of fish. And how do you compare a kettle of fish with poker players?
Really looking forward to the entries!
Quote from: ABERS on August 21, 2013, 10:33:34 PM
. . . mind you Alex has set the bar pretty high already! :tup:
I can see why you like it Alan ;)
I'm pretty sure there will be a lot more to 'like' yet. ;)
Got my effort done:
Born in the Old UK:
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10146/normal_Born_in_the_Old_UK_P-57661php.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14198&fullsize=1)
Mainly because I like my Les Paul Prophecy quite a lot ;)
Butterflies and Bee
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11049/normal_Whitesbutsnbee.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14200&fullsize=1)
Unless some little surprise pops in my way.
OOPs Just re read - it says "shot" - not a composite ::)
I don't think Abers would want to exclude your picture Andy, but maybe he'll let us know his ruling on that one.
Just looked at mine on the uncalibrated laptop, having edited it on a monitor that my Spyder 4 Pro says is bang on, and it looks magenta toned on the lappie. Oh well!
Ah, it seems I was wearing my sunglasses when I edited it - doh!. I haven't got the time to chnge it now - another busy weekend ahead.
All and everything is allowed. It doesn't have to be taken with a camera or a phone.
You ain't seen mine yet, or at least the one I'm planning! ::)
Quote from: Hinfrance on August 22, 2013, 06:28:20 PM
I don't think Abers would want to exclude your picture Andy, but maybe he'll let us know his ruling on that one.
Just looked at mine on the uncalibrated laptop, having edited it on a monitor that my Spyder 4 Pro says is bang on, and it looks magenta toned on the lappie. Oh well!
To be honest Howard, I would rather go in with a 'single shot' entry as I reckon getting it right in camera is what it is really about - It is a shame I did not keep the best one of the originals in tact (due to clicking the wrong save drop down at the wrong moment ) :uglystupid2:
Quote from: ABERS on August 22, 2013, 06:50:54 PM
All and everything is allowed. It doesn't have to be taken with a camera or a phone.
You ain't seen mine yet, or at least the one I'm planning! ::)
Well thanks for that Alan, I will see how things pan out over the next few days :tup:
You can have a bit of fun as well.
Not my entry I might add. :uglystupid2:
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10216/normal_T_REX_Frighteners.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14203&fullsize=1)
I had planned to enter a 'straight' shot, more or less straight from the camera, but now you're giving me ideas! (Dangerous at my age!)
I'll have to see if I have a shot I can play around with. Going out again this morning, so everything is still possible.
Quote from: Beaux Reflets on August 22, 2013, 06:53:32 PM
Quote from: Hinfrance on August 22, 2013, 06:28:20 PM
I don't think Abers would want to exclude your picture Andy, but maybe he'll let us know his ruling on that one.
Just looked at mine on the uncalibrated laptop, having edited it on a monitor that my Spyder 4 Pro says is bang on, and it looks magenta toned on the lappie. Oh well!
To be honest Howard, I would rather go in with a 'single shot' entry as I reckon getting it right in camera is what it is really about - It is a shame I did not keep the best one of the originals in tact (due to clicking the wrong save drop down at the wrong moment ) :uglystupid2:
Do you not still have the image on the camera card, maybe recoverable with something like Pandora or PC Inspector?
Meanwhile I'm in with my magenta tinged shot. Rose tinted spectacles and all that ;)
not sure I will make it this weekend, I'm sick (genuinely sick), and running out of mojo!
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 23, 2013, 09:41:48 AM
not sure I will make it this weekend, I'm sick (genuinely sick), and running out of mojo!
Concentrate on getting better; if you manage that, the mojo will be running back to you. (Do they run?)
Best of luck for both.
Quote from: Hinfrance on August 23, 2013, 08:05:21 AM
Quote from: Beaux Reflets on August 22, 2013, 06:53:32 PM
Quote from: Hinfrance on August 22, 2013, 06:28:20 PM
I don't think Abers would want to exclude your picture Andy, but maybe he'll let us know his ruling on that one.
Just looked at mine on the uncalibrated laptop, having edited it on a monitor that my Spyder 4 Pro says is bang on, and it looks magenta toned on the lappie. Oh well!
To be honest Howard, I would rather go in with a 'single shot' entry as I reckon getting it right in camera is what it is really about - It is a shame I did not keep the best one of the originals in tact (due to clicking the wrong save drop down at the wrong moment ) :uglystupid2:
Do you not still have the image on the camera card, maybe recoverable with something like Pandora or PC Inspector?
Meanwhile I'm in with my magenta tinged shot. Rose tinted spectacles and all that ;)
Cleaned the camera memory unfortunately.
You have done a nice series of shots by the way Howard - The rose colo
ur is probably quite apt, as well as the depiction with upside down flag :( Dear Old Blighty lost her edge in my liking long ago ;)
Quote from: Reinardina on August 23, 2013, 09:49:53 AM
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 23, 2013, 09:41:48 AM
not sure I will make it this weekend, I'm sick (genuinely sick), and running out of mojo!
Concentrate on getting better; if you manage that, the mojo will be running back to you. (Do they run?)
Best of luck for both.
thanks for this. it's also the last weekend for our club's exhibition so I doubt I'll even get the camera out, unless of course there is a perfect misty morning (which I doubt given it hasn't stopped raining for 5 days) Looking forward to what the others come up with.
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 23, 2013, 11:19:25 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 23, 2013, 09:49:53 AM
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 23, 2013, 09:41:48 AM
not sure I will make it this weekend, I'm sick (genuinely sick), and running out of mojo!
Concentrate on getting better; if you manage that, the mojo will be running back to you. (Do they run?)
Best of luck for both.
thanks for this. it's also the last weekend for our club's exhibition so I doubt I'll even get the camera out, unless of course there is a perfect misty morning (which I doubt given it hasn't stopped raining for 5 days) Looking forward to what the others come up with.
Misty mornings are seldom there, when you have time to photograph them. At least here!
But you never know that crops up. I'd say have your camera ready at all times. Or at least a small point and shoot, 'just in case.'
Don't know if it was Alan's encouragement to 'have fun,' or Jen's longing for 'misty mornings,' but I had fun, and ended up with this:
Dream Holiday, or Holiday Dream?
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Dream_2_MM_res.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14208&fullsize=1)
very nice Reinardina, I like the vignette, makes it feel like he hiding away
Ditto..a nice entry Reinardina
Well that's three entries, With three days to go it looks like the CC Club's annual exhibition will be held in a phone box near Manningtree, which is appropriate, since Manningtree is supposedly the smallest town in England. ;)
Message for Spikeyjen. I've seen lots of remarkable pictures taken at art/photo exhibitions, misty or not. :tup:
Jen and Chris, thanks for the compliment.
Alan, I think those 'three days to go' maybe the cause, there aren't any more entries yet. You can take a hell of a lot of photographs in three days.
I took some peculiar ones yesterday, that I haven't properly looked at.
As it's a Bank Holiday, people may be waiting for 'Bank Holiday Things' to photograph.
I notice ABERS hasn't entered anything either. Yet.
Have a great weekend all of you!
Quote from: Reinardina on August 24, 2013, 07:53:12 AM
I notice ABERS hasn't entered anything either. Yet.
I'm not too sure which of the dozen or so images to enter. :-\ ;)
Quote from: ABERS on August 24, 2013, 08:03:29 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 24, 2013, 07:53:12 AM
I notice ABERS hasn't entered anything either. Yet.
I'm not too sure which of the dozen or so images to enter. :-\ ;)
Join the club. I still don't know if I did the right thing, and, as someone said, three days to go yet. (Two by now.)
I now know, that my dreamy angler will not be my entry, so I'll take it off, once I have finally made up my mind!
Had a look at the Bank Holiday Fair yesterday, and even though there were hardly any people, I came home with a few shots I quite like. On my way home I took some of the local Common (where the fairground is) and one of those, I quite like as well.
But, to be honest, I don't really know which one would be 'Best in (my) Show'! :-\
Thank goodness it's raining today, otherwise I might have gone out and made life even more difficult. (Choosing entry-wise.)
Quote from: Reinardina on August 25, 2013, 12:22:29 PM
I now know, that my dreamy angler will not be my entry, so I'll take it off, once I have finally made up my mind!
Had a look at the Bank Holiday Fair yesterday, and even though there were hardly any people, I came home with a few shots I quite like. On my way home I took some of the local Common (where the fairground is) and one of those, I quite like as well.
But, to be honest, I don't really know which one would be 'Best in (my) Show'! :-\
Thank goodness it's raining today, otherwise I might have gone out and made life even more difficult. (Choosing entry-wise.)
Choosing from possibles is always tough, and in the end I have settled on the energy held within a single shot straight from the camera (bar a wee tweak to contrast and digital noise) or perhaps going for simplicity (which may be more suited to next weeks challenge ;) :2funny:)
The Power of Three
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11049/normal_powerofthree.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14211&fullsize=1)
Good luck to all in your final selections
I'm not having much luck with this. The shot I wanted to take needed dusk, a wet road and a train. On Tuesday it was pouring with rain, but unexpectedly reduced to drizzle at 8:30 so I dashed out and just missed a train. Waited for half an hour as in got darker and the rain got heavier, decided to give up. Took the camera off the tripod, then the signal changed, so very hurried replaced it, didn't get time to check the settings - and it was an un-timetabled goods train.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10222/normal__IGP1050Rs_forteviot_railway_crossing.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14218&fullsize=1)
Having checked the timetable I went back last night and snapped this even though it wasn't quite dark or wet enough. There's 80 minutes before the next train (either direction) after this one, by when it would be far too dark, so it's the best I can do till the evenings draw in a little.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10222/normal__IGP1069Rs_forteviot_railway_crossing.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14220&fullsize=1)
Meantime I had taken another shot I might have entered, but now I see Andy has already entered a very similar shot to this.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10222/normal__IGP1064Rs_swallow_birds.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14219&fullsize=1)
Oh well, the week isn't over yet....
Finally got some images sorted out after a trip midweek to Kingston. Found a graffiti covered fence, the ubiquitous Kingston Telephone Box Sculpture, and some harsh light on a white boat house.
Decided to combine a couple of shots. Muck about with another couple.
I thought I'd enter the one below, and added a matte as if it was being entered for possible selection in a real exhibition
Excercise in Blue and Red.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10216/normal_Excercise_in_Blue_and_Red.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14221&fullsize=1)
Graffiti Fence
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10216/normal__Fence_pillar_box_Grafitti_sky.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14217&fullsize=1)
Turk's Boathouse.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10216/normal_Vignetted_face_claer.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14214&fullsize=1)
P.S I may change my mind! :-\
I realised I found my original entry (dreamy angler) a bit wishy-washy and wanted something bolder.
So I considered this
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Higher_and_Higher.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14222&fullsize=1)
or this
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_The_Wave_res.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14223&fullsize=1)
Then I came across this
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Nr_Boating_Lake_Lomo_2_res.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14224&fullsize=1)
after visiting the fair where I found a 'Madonna'
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Girl.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14225&fullsize=1)
As this shot was not bold enough, in the end, I decided on this one:
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Fair_Maidens.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14226&fullsize=1)
And all day tomorrow to change my mind!
Went out this evening for a go at a sunset.
Tried the other night for stars, but all I could see was clouds.
So I'm in with Sunset over Sywell.
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11327/normal_Sunest_over_Sywell_resize_1.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14229&fullsize=1)
Still in doubt. Working on the Madonna now.
Alan, you started something!
Nothing at all from me this week. Not had the camera out at all for a week.
Quote from: DigiDiva on August 26, 2013, 08:43:47 AM
Nothing at all from me this week. Not had the camera out at all for a week.
You can't be serious! Not even once?
Quote from: DigiDiva on August 26, 2013, 08:43:47 AM
Nothing at all from me this week. Not had the camera out at all for a week.
That's not like you Chris.
Yep, I'm out this weekend too... too busy, too sick and no inspiration at hand (might have to look for it). I've not had my camera out either, Chris!!!
I'm off for a holiday in a fortnight - I'm sure I'll find the mojo somewhere in the Australian outback!!
Quote from: Reinardina on August 26, 2013, 08:13:30 AM
Still in doubt. Working on the Madonna now.
Alan, you started something!
Well I hoped I would, but by recent posts it seems not enough to motivate people apart from the old stalwarts!
By leaving it an "open" competition I thought people would be encouraged to show their take on photography, rather than being pointed in a particular direction.
Taking photographs is the easy part, selecting from what you have to offer up for selection in an exhibition can be very perplexing. :-\
Quote from: ABERS on August 26, 2013, 10:29:49 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 26, 2013, 08:13:30 AM
Still in doubt. Working on the Madonna now.
Alan, you started something!
Well I hoped I would, but by recent posts it seems not enough to motivate people apart from the old stalwarts!
By leaving it an "open" competition I thought people would be encouraged to show their take on photography, rather than being pointed in a particular direction.
Taking photographs is the easy part, selecting from what you have to offer up for selection in an exhibition can be very perplexing. :-\
If they're all like me, and don't know what they're doing, or cannot make up their mind, it may be simply that they have not got the time to spend! I'm in the lucky position, at least this week, that I could, and did, spend an enormous amount of time on this particular competition.
But, I would have expected more people to enter, as we're all in the habit of regularly taking photographs. And not everyone can be as 'dithery' as I!
I've changed my mind again, and have now entered my 'Madonna.' (Without child.)
And this is really it! I don't have more shots to work with, so the 'problem' solved itself. I'm now going to see if there is anything worthwhile to see at the fair.
This is my definite entry:
Madonna
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Madonna_3.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14231&fullsize=1)
Quote from: ABERS on August 26, 2013, 10:29:49 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 26, 2013, 08:13:30 AM
Still in doubt. Working on the Madonna now.
Alan, you started something!
Well I hoped I would, but by recent posts it seems not enough to motivate people apart from the old stalwarts!
By leaving it an "open" competition I thought people would be encouraged to show their take on photography, rather than being pointed in a particular direction.
Taking photographs is the easy part, selecting from what you have to offer up for selection in an exhibition can be very perplexing. :-\
Choosing a winning shot equally perplexing as the genre is wide :) :tup:
Sure one or two may still come in before the closing deadline
I had to cover some bowling and rather liked this one: A Thirsty Game
(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10222/normal__IGP1097Rcms_bowls_wigton.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14232&fullsize=1)
But I also managed to catch a Vespa Rally so I'm in with one of those.
Not that I'm panicing (yet) but never having set up a POLL, I've been reading the instructions and having a dummy run, and I can't seem to find Graham's late entry in the place that all the others are, so that I can copy its code. What's up? :doh:
Quote from: ABERS on August 26, 2013, 03:11:59 PM
Not that I'm panicing (yet) but never having set up a POLL, I've been reading the instructions and having a dummy run, and I can't seem to find Graham's late entry in the place that all the others are, so that I can copy its code. What's up? :doh:
This has come up in the past; I once couldn't find a picture and entered just the title, with a request in either the 'Shout' box, or the poll thread.
Normally a moderator manages to get it in the right place in the poll.
I only discovered it when I was setting the poll, you have a bit more time and can maybe pm Graham.
Nothing from me again. Just done some family shots and a wedding pre-shoot this week and been away down south visiting daughter so nothing that could be even close to be considered for best in show. Must get organised :D
It is so unlike me, not to get it out once in a whole week. But it's been out today, shot in only RAW for the 2st time (usually I do RAQW+JPEG but JPEG is a waste, as I don't even look at them now. Went to a place called Raby Castle - only did the house and gardens but I found a swallows next in a little pergola with at least 3 chicks. Mum was popping in every couple of minutes to feed them and I think I got so,m cracking shots but until u download, u can never tell!
Well we ended up with a double figure entry (eventually ;)). Apart from those that have made their apologies I must say I find that a little disappointing, given that the brief gave everyone a free rein.
I rarely enter, not because I can't be bothered, but because I don't think the format does anyone any favours. I only entered the "Umbrella" comp because we have an unusual brolly hanging in the hall. When it won I thought,"Now's the chance to see if a different format will work". Apparently it doesn't. I was expecting an entry to fill an exhibition hall!
Perhaps the word Exhibition was the wrong one, perhaps "Your Own Favourite Image of the Week" would have been better.
And then again perhaps there's only a dozen or so members that are competition orientated? ???
Quote from: ABERS on August 28, 2013, 08:19:54 AM
Well we ended up with a double figure entry (eventually ;)). Apart from those that have made their apologies I must say I find that a little disappointing, given that the brief gave everyone a free rein.
I rarely enter, not because I can't be bothered, but because I don't think the format does anyone any favours. I only entered the "Umbrella" comp because we have an unusual brolly hanging in the hall. When it won I thought,"Now's the chance to see if a different format will work". Apparently it doesn't. I was expecting an entry to fill an exhibition hall!
Perhaps the word Exhibition was the wrong one, perhaps "Your Own Favourite Image of the Week" would have been better.
And then again perhaps there's only a dozen or so members that are competition orientated? ???
Think you hit the nail on the head in your last sentence.
The people entering the competitions, here and elsewhere, are broadly the same people week after week.
It may not be everyone's cup of tea.
I like it, as it gives me something to 'aim for,' when I go out with my camera.
Might it become more attractive, if we could get more people to vote? They'd at least look at it then, and may think 'I would have done that differently' (or something similar) and try their luck/skills in the next competition?
Maybe a new thread, asking people why they don't vote or enter could whisk up business?
Have to sign off now, as my volunteer job beckons!
I'm happy to put my opinion in here.
I am really sorry Abers that I did not get an entry in this week, but time/ sickness/ work/ other demands sometimes just get in the way. I did interpret your theme as 'the best OPEN image that I can take during week', and not something that would only be 'exhibition' quality. I just didn't get the camera out.
I thought it a great theme, and on another week at another time I will probably get more/ or less entries - that's just the nature of a hobby that cannot take priority on other things in life.
I do like the weekly comp, and like Rein, I think about what I can get whenever I get a chance to get out.
Having said that, I did like the critique ('up and down') that DCW offered as it gave you a bit of feedback. Here you only get 'x' votes and another chance to enter next week. Sites like this should be about support, encouragement and learning to get better pictures.
There seems to be a real reluctance and resistance to offering an opinion, compliment or suggestion for improvement on other people's work.
I don't think its just about competition, well, you don't really WIN anything, just the chance to do more work!!! I see it a change to think outside my comfort zone to see what I can get. If I want to enter competitions, I'll go somewhere that I get something to take home (even if it's a certificate!!)
Just my opinion...
This too is my personal opinion only. I may have got it wrong, in which case, I hope someone will put me right.
I don't think CC has ever had much of a critique 'thing' going. When I joined, (most of) the photographers here were very experienced, often even semi, or fully, professional. And most would only post an image, whether or not in a competition, if it was totally to their own satisfaction. Exactly what they wanted, and how they wanted it. No critique needed.
If they weren't sure about something, they'd ask.
This does not mean that no advice is ever given. I have had constructive criticism and ideas on how certain things might be done differently, in comments and by pm.
I am still only a 'housewife with a camera,' struggling to get to grips with my camera and photography in general, and advice is always welcome.
I do not like to give critiques though, as I do not know what I'm talking about, technically. Except when the subject is out of focus, or the horizon wonky, I don't see what's good or bad about an image.
I like a photograph, love it, dislike it, hate it, or it leaves me stone cold. All pure subjective.
I think there is an old critique forum on CC that is not much used, but I also think, that if you want critique/advice/comments on a certain shot, you can start a new thread and simply ask for it. I'm sure you'll get reactions.
Photographs uploaded in 'the normal way' that go into personal albums, do not seem to attract a lot of comments in general. Maybe because people simply do not have too much time. This was also the case on DCW, where images in albums hardly attracted any attention.
The one question that always puzzles me is "what can I do to make it better ? "
Now, if you think it could be made better, why post it? ??? Persevere until it is better.
I always remember the words of John Bardsley FRPS, who encouraged me back in the early '80's, "If you're not happy with it, don't show it to me until you are".
Quote from: ABERS on August 28, 2013, 10:47:20 PM
"If you're not happy with it, don't show it to me until you are".
I guess if that was the case I'd never post anything and I'd never learn what I could do to make it better
I've taken loads of pics that I'm not happy with, but I don't remember one where I've not known why I'm not happy with it.
If anyone asks a "How do I make it better" type question then they are going to get a confused, and possibly conflicting set of answers.
I've been browsing another site ( :-[) recently and the number of "I'm shooting a wedding this weekend, what settings should I use?" questions is quite depressing. I was tempted to join up and say "The same settings you would use for any other situation ie the ones appropriate to the situation at the time!" or even "If you need to ask that then your not ready to photograph a wedding". I'm sure you can imagine how that would have gone down as a first post!
Sorry I'm starting to rant.
To get a specific answer you need to ask a specific question.
Getting nicely back to the "What can I do to make it better?" conundrum , perhaps It would be better to ask "How would you have taken it?"
Graham. :tup:
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 29, 2013, 01:20:10 AM
Quote from: ABERS on August 28, 2013, 10:47:20 PM
"If you're not happy with it, don't show it to me until you are".
I guess if that was the case I'd never post anything and I'd never learn what I could do to make it better
Two totally opposite takes on the subject.
I'm sure a critique/advice/help thread could be very successful, but you would always get the opinion/advice of someone, who will not know exactly what the photographer is trying to achieve. (Even if it is explained carefully, there's always room for mis interpretaions.)
Different 'takes' on an image, might however set the creative juices going.
Hope I make sense.
But you're not alone Jen in missing the critiques, I think it was Oggalilly who recently said the same, and new members who have 'come over' from DCW, may be in the same position.
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 29, 2013, 01:20:10 AM
Quote from: ABERS on August 28, 2013, 10:47:20 PM
"If you're not happy with it, don't show it to me until you are".
I guess if that was the case I'd never post anything and I'd never learn what I could do to make it better
I'm not saying he didn't constructively criticise what you did show him, if needed, but it made you think very hard and very long before arriving at something.
Making it better means what? Better in the eyes of others, better in your own eyes, better in content, better compositionally, better exposurewise ? Covers a wide spectrum that word 'better'.
You are a photographic club member :tup:, don't you think it's better (there's that word again) to have a face to face discussion about your work rather than someone on a forum giving advice from a distance?
Further to Graham's thoughts "How would you have taken it?", there's always the danger with that, should you take advice from the answer, over time you could turn into a clone of the advisor.
Andy has recently asked if anyone would be prepared to offer a mentoring service to anyone who wanted it. Not many takers there. Is it because members don't feel they have the wherewithall and expertise to provide it, or is it because we're a happy bunch and don't want to offend. People's skin can be very thin you know. ::)
Boy, this thread is getting a bit heavy...
it was only an opinion!
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 29, 2013, 10:22:57 AM
Boy, this thread is getting a bit heavy...
it was only an opinion!
I think it's very healthy rather than a bit heavy... :2funny:
Good Critique is most valuable - simply as it makes you question your own work.
Photography is subjective and often like marmite, and even the choice of the title for an image can make a whole lot of difference.
As for mentoring, we all probably benefit from having one or more, whether it is by direct or indirect means; for every time you look at a photograph, your brain asks the questions and the image gives some answers.
Always happy to mentor ;)
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 29, 2013, 10:22:57 AM
Boy, this thread is getting a bit heavy...
it was only an opinion!
Well you dragged me from under my stone! We need a few more like you. :tup:
They're all only opinions. From different people, with different experience levels, and different 'takes' on photography, and what they want to achieve.
I am, no doubt, the least experienced photographer in this thread, and still have a lot to learn. I do get advice and hints from different people, but mostly subtle ones, not a full blown critique.
I think I probably learnt the most from my own mistakes. Looking back at photographs I took when I first started out, make me realise I have picked up a lot of know how over the years. By just doing, experimenting, reading, looking at other people's pictures, and indeed the hints and advice.
If I don't 'get' something, I ask.
Quote from: Graham on August 29, 2013, 12:27:13 PM
Well you dragged me from under my stone! We need a few more like you. :tup:
By the way, it's good to see you in daylight Graham!
There's going to be major fence sitting from me on this issue. I can see the validity of all of the points of view expressed here, up to a point.
I don't like to put something up if it seems to me to be not quite good enough, although sometimes I do; I have learned from experience that on occasion images I post that I think are average at best can gain the most complementary comments, whereas some of the ones that I think are better than perfect are either ignored or savaged. Which just goes to show how little I know, and how much is simple, on occasion intense, unformed personal response to a picture.
The upshot is that Alan is right, one should always try to do better, but sometimes our level of experience is such that we don't know that our offerings could be better or if we do we lack the skill and knowledge to actually achieve that improvement. Which brings me to Re's and Graham's point (which seem to me to essentially the same), with which I have great empathy because I do this too, that sometimes you can look at a picture and find it either wow or yuck but not really be able to articulate why. So "what would you have done?" becomes the right question.
Lastly, I would be more than happy to initiate the old DCM habit of doing up and down critiques for the weekly competition, as long as such critiques remain firmly positive.
Hi H. Re your second paragraph For the "best in show" comp I decided I'd definitely enter what I thought was my best shot taken that week even though I wasn't too pleased with it. And I often find that a shot I think might be a winner gets no votes at all. (I think it just shows that all our tastes are different - which is how it should be.)
Like Howard, I'm happy about doing 'one before and one after critiques' with perhaps the mention of the shot you voted for (and others you may have considered) outlining your opinion upon its (their) attraction or merit.
Hopefully a critique aspect will not put folk off or drive future entries away, as it is good to see the number of entries and voters growing :tup:
Just a couple of questions. I'm a little confused.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
This what I can't get my head around.
Quote from: ABERS on August 29, 2013, 01:59:17 PM
Just a couple of questions.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
This what I can't get my head around.
I think the answer to your questions may be; The honouring in or to the fact of being in a constant open situation in learning while sharing any wisdom that others may find useful along the way.
:)
Quote from: Beaux Reflets on August 29, 2013, 02:21:53 PM
I think the answer to your questions may be; The honouring in or to the fact of being in a constant open situation in learning while sharing any wisdom that others may find useful along the way.
:)
If you say so Andy. ???
When Bailey tels me to sod off when I tell him how he can improve, I'll tell him that. 8)
Alan it would only make no sense if we were all at an identical level of skill, experience and competence.
Photographer A might be the best portrait photographer in the world, but lost at understanding landscapes, photographer B the exact opposite - clearly they can help each other whilst acknowledging that there are limits to their abilities.
Basic Ricardo - comparative advantage ;)
PS, I get the impression that Bailey has always told people to sod off, regardless!
I'm happy to say that I liked a particular shot better than another one, and that I voted for the one which most appealed to me. Does that help someone? Doubt it.
A critique, to me, is mostly about technical aspects, of which I don't know enough, to be able to give any advice.
And the rest is 'in the eye of the beholder.' This is still my personal opinion of course!
We have all seen awe inspiring photographs that have won prestigious prizes; we have also seen photographs that did very well, and we did not/could not see what the fuss was about.
Pictures I put on line, often leave a lot to be desired. Sometimes I know this, and I just 'float' them to test the waters, sometimes I don't realise it, and someone comments or poses a question to wake me up, but most of the time I only find out much later, what rubbish I posted.
It's all a learning curve of a hobby I very much enjoy.
Now I'd better sort out my entry for this week's competition as I have a very busy time ahead.
Quote from: ABERS on August 29, 2013, 03:05:14 PM
Quote from: Beaux Reflets on August 29, 2013, 02:21:53 PM
I think the answer to your questions may be; The honouring in or to the fact of being in a constant open situation in learning while sharing any wisdom that others may find useful along the way.
:)
If you say so Andy. ???
When Bailey tels me to sod off when I tell him how he can improve, I'll tell him that. 8)
Personally I have often wondered what all the fuss is over David Bailey (I assume he is who you refer to) as there are many equally capable and talented photographers out there; I guess it is all down to taste and whether a image speaks something to the observer, and perhaps, a photographer being in a particular place with a personal style that suits the mood of the day.
That said, these days, I am unlikely to tell anyone who has already got a good grasp of 'writing with light' how they can 'improve' - and in general my comments bend towards artistic or compositional aspects upon whether the image appeals to me or not, underlining the fact that it is only always my personal opinion.
Sorry - not been around for a few days as I was away in the lakes. 10 is not too bad a field for here Alan. More varied involvement of late anyway. My views- I`m more likely to do an entry with a narrower theme set as I use it to challenge my grey cells. If i`d shot anything of wider value that week I felt worthy of setting in front of you all I would have done and indeed could have done but two issues.
Of my two sessions with a camera in the week:
1. Were family shots. I shared a few of on facebook as "here`s our news type stuff but wouldn`t have pushed them as my photography style / best comp entries as they were simple family snapshots.
2. Some I did as part of a pre-wedding shoot I really liked but as the client has not had them yet I don`t use / share them anywhere.
Other tha that too busy a week to even get out and shoot as I was either driving/in company or sleeping :D
Been in the lakes last few days and probably have some potential entries for this week and would have entered them last week if they had fallen then.
As for the critiques I see them as giving comment on how I might have seen/ shot / processed differently or how pleasing they were to other`s eyes not necessarily me saying that they weren`t good enough and how do I improve and sorry I put such crap in front of you. I have been guilty of posting the odd one not 100% about in an effort to support comp entries when they were light on the ground. As for the critique sometimes it will make me realise there is more than one way of seeing things that works and other times I might feel like saying thanks for the pointers but I prefer the way I did it. If comments are tactful and constructively given all should be OK. I`m useless on technical aspects / appreciation but I know what I like and happy to say so if asked.
Quote from: ABERS on August 29, 2013, 01:59:17 PM
Just a couple of questions. I'm a little confused.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
This what I can't get my head around.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
I would think everyone has the capacity to say they think about an image, suggest it may be cropped or add their opinion. I don't have to be the best photographer in the world to offer support to another photographer. As the president of the local camera club, I do believe that I can assist another photographer to improve/ or feel good about what they have done. That also doesn't mean that I don't enjoy hearing what other people think or that I can't improve my own work
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
I don't crave critique, I'm just looking for a site where I get other people opinions, constructive feedback and I am able to support other photographers in the same way. I just mentioned that I enjoyed the 'up and down' option that another site provided.
This what I can't get my head around
I get the idea that my needs will not be met here and I think I will go somewhere else. I understand that this site has either had bad experience of 'support' or just doesn't want it.
I personally think that Camera Craniums is and should be almost like the ' local photographic club' with the online forum aspect making the local a bit more Global; so I hope you stick around Spikeyjen.
So far there have only been words.
Why don't you give it a try: open en new thread, upload a photograph that you want improved/changed or whatever.
A shot that you've given your all, but still lacks something (in your opinion, others may disagree; it wouldn't be the first time!).
If you know what it is that you don't like about it, mention that and ask what people think, how they would have done it, is there something that would make it stand out better, lighting, point of view, composition etc.
And see what you get, and if it helps you.
Several people have said they would not mind introducing the critique for above and below pictures in the competition and Andy has said he is always happy to mentor.
Don't get entangled in a web of words and let it strangle you, before you have tried the practical options.
Just give it a go.
The fact that it hasn't been done before, or was not successful in the past, does not mean it cannot be (re)introduced and become a runaway success.
Quote from: spikeyjen on August 30, 2013, 10:39:05 AM
Quote from: ABERS on August 29, 2013, 01:59:17 PM
Just a couple of questions. I'm a little confused.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
This what I can't get my head around.
If you need advice on how to make your work better, how can you give advice to someone to do the same?
I would think everyone has the capacity to say they think about an image, suggest it may be cropped or add their opinion. I don't have to be the best photographer in the world to offer support to another photographer. As the president of the local camera club, I do believe that I can assist another photographer to improve/ or feel good about what they have done. That also doesn't mean that I don't enjoy hearing what other people think or that I can't improve my own work
If you crave a critique of your work in order to improve it, why do you think you are able to reciprocate?
I don't crave critique, I'm just looking for a site where I get other people opinions, constructive feedback and I am able to support other photographers in the same way. I just mentioned that I enjoyed the 'up and down' option that another site provided.
This what I can't get my head around
I get the idea that my needs will not be met here and I think I will go somewhere else. I understand that this site has either had bad experience of 'support' or just doesn't want it.
Can't really disagree with any of that (Apart from the last bit. :o).
Like I said earlier, we could do with more like you, and by the same token, a few more like Abers (Or, at least, a bit more of the one we've got!).
Graham. :-*
Sorry Spikyjen, none of my ramblings were aimed specifically at you, but all photographers who inhabit forums.
All I'm trying to point out is, that from practical experience there's only one person that can improve your work, that's you, by trying different approaches and doggedly sticking at it. There's nothing wrong in asking for help, and you can get it abundance here on CC, there are plenty of contributors to pitch in.
No one is infallible, a little criticism is good for the soul. My fiercest critic knows next to nothing about photography but I always take note of what she says about my efforts. Then when my prints are rejected it gives her the satisfaction of saying, "I told you so!", and if by chance I get an acceptance I can return the compliment.
Still that's married life for you.
Quote from: ABERS on August 30, 2013, 06:51:30 PM
Still that's married life for you.
You mean you had to get married before she would critique your work? ::) :legit:
Quote from: Oldboy on August 30, 2013, 08:04:10 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 30, 2013, 06:51:30 PM
Still that's married life for you.
You mean you had to get married before she would critique your work? ::) :legit:
Or did you marry her in spite of?
Does she critique EVERYTHING????????????????
Quote from: DigiDiva on August 30, 2013, 10:39:50 PM
Does she critique EVERYTHING????????????????
Qué?
Till now there have only been two 'she's' in this discussion: one who wants critiques, and one who does not feel experienced enough to give critiques.
Am I missing something? ???
Yes, Alan's better half!
Quote from: Hinfrance on August 31, 2013, 10:49:38 AM
Yes, Alan's better half!
Oh! Of course! How stupid not to see that!
Sorry Chris, totally misunderstood you. :uglystupid2:
thank you all for your email and replies, and I do apologise if it appears that I have over-reacted. I have read back over the thread and mused upon the replies, and I think the issue here is the word 'critique' as opposed to providing support, making suggestions, and giving others new ideas/ angles/ Photoshop tips or whatever. This is something that I believe everyone has the capacity to do, and to do nicely.
I have left my opinions with one of the moderators and next weekend will be heading off into the sunset for a 4 week holiday, driving across Australia (and the Nullarbor Plains), camping out under the stars, navel gazing to find the meaning of life, reading endless photo mags that have been stacked up around my house and then will attend the APS (Australian Photographic Society) annual conference.
I will pop back in when I return.
Quote from: spikeyjen on September 01, 2013, 08:13:53 AM
thank you all for your email and replies, and I do apologise if it appears that I have over-reacted. I have read back over the thread and mused upon the replies, and I think the issue here is the word 'critique' as opposed to providing support, making suggestions, and giving others new ideas/ angles/ Photoshop tips or whatever. This is something that I believe everyone has the capacity to do, and to do nicely.
I have left my opinions with one of the moderators and next weekend will be heading off into the sunset for a 4 week holiday, driving across Australia (and the Nullarbor Plains), camping out under the stars, navel gazing to find the meaning of life, reading endless photo mags that have been stacked up around my house and then will attend the APS (Australian Photographic Society) annual conference.
I will pop back in when I return.
You may well have hit the nail on the head here.
Words again!
A suggestion of maybe trying something in mono, is a long way away from a full blown critique!
Enjoy your holiday
Have a wonderful break Jen, see you when you get home.
Some striking photographs this week making it hard to select a favourite.
In the end I voted for Reinardina's Madonna; A refreshingly different soft portrait, enhanced by the gentle attention provided to the lip detail. :tup:
OK, quick up and down then:
Up - The Power of Three: I like blue, and I liked the double triple as it were, the three birds on three wires. Strong diagonal. I'm afraid it didn't strike me as having a lot of impact, probably because of the large amount of empty space and the fact that the birdies are so small in the frame.
Down - Exercise in Blue and Red. This, on the other hand, kapow! impact. Deceptively simple, powerful direct colours and presented in an exhibition style. Definitely the kind of image that would wow real world judges I reckon.
My vote this week went to Poker, although it could easily have been Graham's muso or Alan's stunner at the drop of a hat too.
Just my musings, of course.
Thank you for your critique Howard.
I was indeed purposely exploring the relationship of the two threes and took a series of shots from different places on the ground in the hope that something might spring or gel together. I particularly wanted the strong diagonal lead in , and finally settle on getting the pole arms as near to the edge of the frame as looked comfortable in camera, so that the starlings were nearer the centre of the composition.
I guess I may be relying on the title The Power of Three too much :-\
But when looking at the balance of imagery within the composition, I felt my eyes were being sent to and fro between the birds and the glass insulation rings, as if the pole arms or power lines were animated in some way (although looking at my other shots, the lighter sky areas are also helping such in the illusion). Hence my decision to upload it into the comp.
Having had a comment (on FB) that it had made someone smile when they saw it, I guess they had experienced similar in observation.
There you go Andy, it's all in the eye of the beholder 8)
Quote from: Hinfrance on September 02, 2013, 03:15:01 PM
There you go Andy, it's all in the eye of the beholder 8)
Isn't it always thus?
Thanks for the lovely critique Andy!