How to critique a photograph
Lets’ begin by each writing a few thoughts, feelings, observations about the picture(s) before us. Spend a few minutes on each picture jotting down the first things that come to mind when you look at the image.
Having other people evaluate your photographs and looking at and thinking critically and constructively about other peoples’ pictures are important and constructive steps in developing your photo skill sets.
Here are 6 major aspects of a photograph to consider when critiquing pictures: composition/content, subject, background/setting, technical ability/craftsmanship, emotive quality of the photo and artists intended ideas and to what degree we understand them when looking at and thinking about the picture.
Composition/Content/Subject
First look at the composition or content in the photograph. What is the subject of interest in the picture? Where did the photographer place it in the frame? Did the photographer get close enough to the subject to include only what is important, or are there wasted parts of the picture with elements that do not add to the overall message of the photo?
Consider what is the photographer’s subject, their main point of interest. Where is the subject located? How is the subject rendered? What type of light surrounds the subject? Is the subject or subjects in Focus? How much of the subject can we see?
Background/Setting
Next, observe the background or setting in the photograph. How did the photographer represent the background or setting in regards to focus, depth of field rendering, contrast, exposure and detail? How does the background add or distract from the message of the photo?
Technical ability/Craftsmanship
Now take a look at the technical camera work involved in the photograph. Is/are the subject(s) sharp and clearly in focus? Is the photo exposed properly? A properly exposed photo will have some texture in the shadows as well as the highlights. Are details missing because of over or under exposure?
Then look at the craftsmanship the photographer exhibits. Does the physical photo have spots, stains, or scratches? Is it placed nicely in a frame or elaborately displayed? Is there evidence that the photograph was made with care in the process?
Personal Emotional Response
Finally, offer your own personal feelings on the photograph. What do you like about the selected subject? Is it an emotional shot, a story, a statement, a humorous photo? What would you do differently if you had the chance to take the same photograph?
