On Constructive Criticism
Reposting a letter (edited) to my local Jacksonville Photography Meetup Group on the matter of asking for “constructive criticism” of one’s photos.
Some of my thoughts on it can be generalized to life, work and everything else.
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On “Constructive Criticism”
This is meant as “constructive criticism.”
The phrase seems to be trending on this as well as other photography groups.
I dislike it, and respectfully suggest that we try to transcend its trappings.
Let me explain.
I fully appreciate everyone’s sensitivity to criticism. Getting criticism that is constructive should go without saying. That members of this group and particularly new members feel like we need to make it explicit is a symptom of bigger problems that cannot be solved by invoking that phrase repeatedly.
Giving Criticism
First, if you can’t critique without attacking people personally here, don’t bother. And if you find that sort of style of dialog interesting, feel free to take it to many likeminded groups such as flickr’s Delete Me Uncensored (DMU). This is not a value judgement, you’ll find me there shredding your “crap” as readily as the next “asshat” in the name of fun.
But that is not the norm here at JPMG.
It is not that we need to be milquetoast and tiptoe around everyone’s personal feelings, it is simply that we should respect each other’s maturity, self-confidence and assume that we are deserving of each other’s honest and best good-faith efforts in the interest of advancing our collective art.
Taking Criticism
Second, as the recipient of criticism, no one should feel vulnerable here. You shouldn’t need to ask people to be constructive as if that is the exception instead of the norm. Expect it. Demand it. You’ve earned that right by showing up.
But, you also have a responsibility to suspend your natural sensitivities and to be open minded about what is being offered.
Here’s the thing, criticism is what you make of it.
True, some are more useful than others, but you can choose how you feel about any of them. You are in control. Don’t put the responsibility of feeling emotionally safe in other people’s hands. Yes, expect professional courtesy, it makes the world a better place. But you don’t have to agree; you don’t even have to like it.
If, however, you only want criticism you like to hear, your ego is in the way of real growth. And, that would be the real tragedy.
The goal isn’t to protect our own feelings. The goal is to elevate our art.
When I see photographers asking for “constructive criticism,” my instinct is to be suspicious about their willingness to really engage the conversation; I wonder about their self-esteem and question if I should really invest any time. If you are a pro, you have no reason to be self-conscious. It demeans the process; it is like saying, “give me feedback but please know that I may take issue with the way you are giving it.” Just ask for feedback, take the good, leave the bad, don’t sweat the chumps. If you are new to this group, know that you will always get my best, and most constructive feedback. It just goes without saying.
Humbly yours,
Ernest Koe
