Ask for feedback on your photography: you will learn a lot
A new image that will definitely be asking for feedback on!
Photography is often a solitary occupation
I like to spend time on my own when making images. It is easier to concentrate on what is in front of me and how to interpret it. I find other people a distraction.
However, photographers also like to talk! I have been enjoying conversations with a lot of other photographers recently. These conversations have helped my photography immensely.
Here are three ways talking to other photographers has helped me
Firstly, I am a member of a small sequencing group. Every month or so, one member submits a group of images and each of us creates a sequence from those images. We have had all sorts of sequences: suggestions for books layouts, creating the images into exhibition panels and even arrangements that would work as a floor layout. I benefit a lot from this exercise. It improves my sequencing skills, which is vital if you work in series of images. I also learn a lot about how people see my work.
Next, there are a couple of photographers with whom I have fairly regular one-to-one conversations with. We share what we are up to and are happy to critique each other’s work. I originally met them through online courses and groups. Now we have got to know each other well and trust each other to be honest about our work. Both of these photographers work in different ways and styles to me so it is good to get fresh eyes on what I am doing.
Finally, when I created 1Point4 Miles, I asked three people I whose opinion I valued to be readers for me. Although I didn’t plan it this way, one reader concentrated on the actual images (I was embarrassed that I had missed some dust spots…), one on the sequence and one on the overall layout of the book. Their feedback was invaluable and made a real difference to the book.
What does good feedback look like?
The feedback that works for me helps me refine the direction that I am taking. It also allows me to discuss questions and thoughts that I have about what I am working on. After a discussion, I may modify my views on how to progress a body of work. And sometimes, especially if I am having doubts about the work that I am producing, it is good to hear some confirmation that I am on a worthwhile path.
The discussions can get quite detailed. I have discussed different ways to crop images, colour palettes and where retouching might be useful. It is fascinating seeing how others might see things differently. As I critique other work it also helps me for when I review my own work
By the way, I always ignore social media when it comes to feedback. I like to work with people I know (even if I first met them on social media). And the throwaway comments that are posted on most social media networks are rarely the result on someone having spent time with an image.
How can you build your own photography network?
The most important element in this is to find people that you trust. I have met and developed good relationships with photographers on social media, at workshops and at online and in-person events. You often find that you connect with certain people. There may not be an obvious reason for this: the right people may not share the same photography style as you (although it helps if you are inspired by their work).
Many people are very open to being approached to having a Zoom call to get to know each other more and discuss photography. Take a while to build the right relationship. When the time is right, they will often be often pleased to offer feedback on your work if you ask them. And they may ask you to do the same. When asking for feedback, do think about what you want from it. It helps if you have specific questions.
What about using professional photographers and artists for feedback?
I have done some one-to-one sessions with full-time photographers. In each case I have found the feedback considered and useful. This is an investment, so think carefully about what you want to get from a session.
Make sure you choose the right person: their approach may be more important than having the same type of work as you. It is also worth asking for feedback from others who your chosen photographer. I was put off using one person as the feedback I received was that they tended to shy away from making too much criticism of others’ work.
Whomever you use there is one important thing to remember
The feedback you receive is only one person’s opinion. If you strongly disagree with what you hear, you are probably right! Sometimes, hearing suggestions on how I might make some changes has only convinced me not to make them! The challenge has reinforced my decision and that is very healthy.
Some people will disagree with the idea of asking for feedback
Many blogs have been written about not talking to others but trusting one’s own instincts. All I can say is that, for me personally, talking to the right people has helped me a lot.
I have also made some good friends through talking about photography. And it may change my ways: I am talking about working together with some of my photography network. Perhaps I am not quite the solitary photographer that I thought I was.