PhotoCrit.com
Our critique philosophy
One of the most difficult things for artists to do is to evaluate
their own work. The creative process is complex and multi-layered,
involving both the conscious and subconscious interpretation of
ideas and influences. For that reason, it is nearly impossible
for artists to fully comprehend their own creative expressions.
During the critique process, an objective viewer will often key
in on aspects of an artist's work that even the creator wasn't
fully aware of. Engaging in this process with a trained, unbiased
professional becomes an invaluable tool for creative growth.
Regardless of the medium, the critique is an integral part of
an artist's development. Photography is the subject of a long-standing
debate over how much is "art" and how much is merely "captured
reality." In sculpture or painting, for instance, there is
little doubt in the viewer's mind that they are looking at an artist's
interpretation or expression. A photograph is often viewed solely
as a representation of the subject itself and not as a form of
self-expression. It is especially important then, that artists
working in the photographic medium learn to identify and articulate
the artistic expression and creative intent in their work. An effective
critique can help the artist do just that.
In addition to being an art medium, photography, is a very personal
expression of the individual. Of all the possible subjects and
viewpoints that could be chosen for a picture, the photographer
makes a particular set of choices, and in doing so, reveals many
things about themselves. By learning what was revealed through
critique and feedback, photographers gain an increased awareness
of themselves and of their relationship to the world around them.
With this expanded knowledge, the photographer has the opportunity
to grow in ways that that go far beyond simply acquiring technical
expertise.
Our belief at PhotoCrit.com is that images are an outgrowth of
personal experiences. When you show your photographs, whether to
friends and family or on a gallery wall, the images have the potential
to transcend the personal and become a part of our shared experience
— a part of the culture. Our evaluations of your work are based
on your stated goals. Whether you are an occasional photographer
looking to make better family photos or you have just completed
a graduate art program and want to become a gallery artist, each
of our critiques is specifically geared to help you achieve your
aims.
Every photographic discipline, wedding photography, fashion spreads,
or contemporary art photography, has its own criteria, language,
and history that will inform the critique. Family albums, for instance
have a history, language and an aesthetic that is unique to that
genre. Fine artists and commercial photographers will each need
different kinds of feedback and information to engage in the dialog
of their respective fields. Our critiques not only increase personal
awareness, but cultural awareness about what others in a particular
field have done historically and what is being done today.
In fostering creative growth, PhotoCrit.com prides itself on building
personal relationships with clients, enabling them to express themselves
more fully and reach their goals by delving deeper into their specific
photographic needs. In receiving feedback and support specific
to their discipline, each photographer grows on a personal, professional,
and cultural level.
As an added benefit of PhotoCrit.com critiques, you will not only
come to see your own work differently, but you will gain a greater
understanding and appreciation of the language and effects of images
in the world at large. You will learn to read images as you would
a written text. You will increase your "visual literacy." |