audre, I know where you're coming from...and agree! I didn't read each post thoroughly, so this, or something like it, may have been suggested. To help guide critiquers (sp) and provide some uniformity, I suggest setting up a "form" with standard items to critique against, e.g., technique, color, composition, setting, emotional impact, etc. Each category could have a rating button along with a comments field to provide rationale. I'm a nut when it comes to standardization and think setting it up in this fashion would also "help" avoid the glowing comments on one end and insults on the other. It would also help the moderator pick out who is obviously out-of-bounds. There should also be a faq that explains in no uncertain terms the purpose of the forum, define the categories, and acceptable and unacceptable ratings/rationale.