I've attempted to capture and address some of the concerns expressed thus far in a FAQ format. Let me know if I missed yours. === Q. Whats the purpose of the Critique Forum? A. The Critique Forum is a place for artists to learn. Artists improve their talents by posting their images for feedback on its artistic merits and the general populace learns from others, developing a critical eye. This not only helps them learn to provide better critiques BUT also improve their own art as well. For beginners, it guides them toward more advanced proficiency while giving advanced artists the opportunity to push the limits of the talent. === Q. I can make comments in the galleries. Why do we have a separate forum? A. 1) The objective of this forum is to learn. Moderators will be aggressive in maintaining that objective. 2) This forum is open to all media. Therefore, youll receive a wider cross-section of artists viewing and critiquing images and, perhaps, offering different perspectives and greater depth. 3) For each image, comments posted here should be more immediate and targeted toward artistic learning than what youd find in the galleries === Q. What are the rules for this forum? A. There are no additional rules to the TOS; however, we do have a few guidelines that should be emphasized due to the nature of this forum. - Personal attacks will not be tolerated. Keep all comments constructive targeted toward the image, not the artist or yourself. - Products in development or promotions are not to be posted in this forum and will be removed. === Q. Id like to post my image here for feedback, but Im afraid Ill get negative feedback. A. By posting your image in this forum, you acknowledge that you may receive both positive and negative comments. If you dont have a thick skin, you should reconsider posting your image. === Q. Im generally pleased with my image, but would like feedback on just one aspect. Can I specify what Id like the general audience to focus on? A. Absolutely! Artists posting an image are highly encouraged to include specific questions they may have for the group. === Q. What is Constructive Criticism A. Constructive criticism provides a learning benefit to all readers. It generally takes the form of I like/dislike ___ because.... You might try.... More specifically: - Select and discuss items that work well in the image - Discuss items that could be improved, provide rationale, and suggest possible ways to implement the improvement - Comments should be positive and targeted toward the subject matter, not the artist or yourself. Attempt to be objective, disregarding your own personal preferences. If you really dislike image and cant contribute anything that would benefit the artist (or the community), it would be better to withhold posting. Additionally, gratuitous praise or raving insults do not promote the objectives of this forum. === Q. How should I frame my critique? A. Critiques can be done in numerous ways. You can use a conversational style or a more analytic, structured one. To aid in considering artistic elements, a template has been included at the top of this forums page* that you can either reference or cut/paste into your reply and fill in. These elements include: EMOTIONAL IMPACT: Is the image a compilation of parts or does it elicit emotion? CREATIVITY Is the subject matter unique or has it been portrayed numerous times. Does the image contain any unique aspects in technique, style, etc.? CONSISTENCY: Are there any contrary elements in the image (e.g., shadows falling in the wrong direction, setting appropriate to the subject)? LIGHTING and COLOR Is the image over- or under-saturated? Is color and/or light well balanced or otherwise appropriate to this composition? Does the use of color and/or light enhance or detract from the subject? TECHNIQUE Does the image contain technical flaws? Are they particularly distracting? COMPOSITION Is the image well balanced or does it seem to be heavy or light in some areas? ATTENTION TO DETAIL Does the image contain a level of detail thats not normally expected? OVERALL What are your impressions of the overall image? === Q. How can I overcome my uneasiness in providing negative feedback? A. Negative feedback is just as, if not more, important to the learning process as positive comments. By posting their image in this forum, the artist acknowledges, and accepts, the likelihood they will receive negative comments. If you can accept that improvement is a positive outcome, there really are no negative commentsprovided they are constructive. === * Discussed with audre the idea of a form. Since it would compound and delay getting this started, she suggested a low-tech cut/paste method for now. Sounds good to me! Paul