How to Critique

Here is a brief(ish) description of critiquing, and a few steps you should go through and questions to answer when critiquing.

First off, a critique is different than a criticism.  When you critique anything (usually a term used for talking about art) you will describe what you do and don't like about an image using specific points to back up your thoughts.  For example: "I don't like the way her hat sits" is not a critique, but "Her hat is casting a shadow over her eyes, which makes them difficult to see" is a critique.  Sometimes you can add on a suggestion such as "Next time, have her tilt her head up a little more to let light into her eyes."  There should never be a time that you simply say "I don't like this picture."  There are always positives and negatives in a critique.

Here are a few points/questions that should be covered in a critique.  Others are always acceptable, but this is a general listing.

(1) What is your favorite thing about this image?

(2) What is your least favorite thing about this image.

(3) Using specific techniques, what would you do to change the image?  This cannot include "I would have taken a better picture," and also cannot be something like "I would have made them change their clothes."  The first is not a critique and the second is most likely something that the photographer couldn't help (most clients have an idea what they want to wear and don't ask for feedback).

(4) What technique did you notice that the photographer used?  For example, did they use a fill-flash, the rule of thirds, negative space or depth of field in a way that enhanced the image?

(5) Finally, try to critique as many images as you can.  The more feedback a person gets, the better they can be the next time.  Also, don't be afraid to critique your own image.  You don't have to say it is yours, just treat it with outside eyes.  That way the photos stay anonymous, but once the photo is put up alongside others, it is much easier to look at with unbiased eyes.

Happy critiquing!!!