Leaving a Critique

FAQ on Leaving a Critique:

Q1. Why should I leave a critique?

A. Leaving constructive critiques will better help the user to understand how to improve their shot. You also will improve your skill to analyze images and to convey your thoughts. By leaving a written critique, you will also gain more user points for the “top users” leaderboard.

Q2. How do I write a constructive critique?

A. A constructive critique offers valid criticism and a solution on how to resolve the issue. We recommend you to first address the biggest issues in the photo such as composition, use of color, clarity, mood, etc. In addition, if there is an aspect you appreciated with the photo, let the user know what you thought worked.

Example constructive critique: Great use of lighting, however, the message of the photo is not clear. There are too many people in the frame. Overall I found the photo to be too distracting and unclear. The composition and mood of the photo could be improved by concentrating on the couple to the left who are interacting with one another and making interesting hand gestures.

Q3. Is leaving a written critique mandatory?

A. Leaving written critiques are optional but highly encouraged because of the benefits (see Q1). When you lack the time or energy to leave a written critique, give feedback to other users through “keep” or “ditch” votes. Voting keep or ditch also contributes to your user points.

Please Do:

Remember the human. When you communicate online, all you see is a screen. When talking to someone you might want to ask yourself “Would I say it to the person’s face?”

Follow the golden rule. Treat others in the Community as you would want them to treat you.

Adhere to the same standards of behavior online that you follow in real life.

Keep your critiques relevant to the photo you are critiquing.

Use proper grammar and spelling. Not all ARS members speak English as their native language. Keeping your critiques easy to read will better help users to understand your meaningful feedback.

Leave constructive critiques. It is perfectly fine if you do not think a photo is good but in order for the uploader to improve, they need to hear why the photo is not good and how to improve. Read here how to leave a constructive critique.

Share words of genuine encouragement. If there is an aspect of a photo that you appreciate, let the user know. Positivity goes a long way.

Give your feedback by writing critiques or voting keep/ditch. By being active in the community, you help others to receive feedback. You also benefit yourself by improving your ability to read an image as well as receive points to the leaderboards.

Please Do Not:

In regard to leaving a critique

Be (intentionally) rude. By choosing not to be rude, you increase the overall civility of the community and make it better for all of us.

Insult others. Personal insults do not contribute to a rational discussion. Constructive Criticism, however, is appropriate and encouraged.

Troll. Trolling (i.e., leave critiques that are designed to provoke a negative response from one or more users). Trolling does not contribute to the user looking for constructive critiques and will result in a permanent ban from ARS.

In regard to receiving a critique

Report critiques that are valid but you do not like. Take a moment to stop, think and examine your reasons for disliking a critique. Report critiques that do not adhere to the code of conduct, rather than doing so out of an emotional reaction.