First of all, unless the poster is a newbie begging for comments, I seldom reply on anything that doesn't have some artistic merit and that is at least "good" by my standards. I occasionally leave an oooh or ahhh comment, but I usually try to tell them something specific about what I like. Now, I have a degree in journalism and have worked as a professional editor at a newspaper. There, we routinely worked with creative professionals (writers, artists, photographers, layout people, ad people, etc.). There, we were taught how to give criticism so that it would be well received. 1) Start with something nice. Not false flattery, but something specific and concrete that you like or enjoy. What made you bother to take the time to comment on it in the first place? 2) Even if there are 200 things that could be done better, try to mention only 1-3 concrete, specific things that could be changed or improved. 3) Close with something positive. I hope this doesnt sound contrived or manipulative, but this actually works (especially since, as I said, I dont waste time on work I dont like), but if people will follow this format, youll leave comments that will be helpful and well received.

Forum: Community Center

Subject: To comment or ....not to comment ...that is the question.