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I can't tell you how many times I've heard one photographer telling another photographer why their photograph could've been better, and this is what they should've, in their opinion, done to make it better.

 Tons of critics feel they're experts, and while they may be experts in something, they're not experts in our work or who we are as photographers.  

Instead of taking a bit more time and asking what our intent of composition was, understanding who we are as a photographer, and basing their critique on elements of composition, they got nothin' but an opinion based on their "taste".

What they're really saying is, "I'm sorry, but your taste doesn't agree with my taste. " But since I think I'm the expert, you should believe me and do what I say.

As one of my teachers used to say about critics, way back in the day when coffee was cheap, "My unsolicited and uninformed opinion and a buck fifty will get me a cup of coffee at the deli across the street."

Here's the thing: photography critics give opinions without fully understanding the photographer or their intent of composition.

Furthermore, if we ask different people what they think about our work, we'll get different opinions.

This isn't a way to improve our photography.

So, whose opinions do we believe?

Our own.

If we frequently feel our work could be better, we need to critique it in terms of composition elements.

The elements of composition are objective, and we can utilize them to thoughtfully compose and critique our work during creation and review.

We're mainly talking about the visual outcomes related to camera operation and light, such as sharpness and tonality.

When we do that, we improve as photographers because we can associate the cause-and-effect relationship between camera operation and composition.

And if we're waiting for everyone to like our work, forget it.

As mentioned before, composition is a matter of taste.

And not everyone has the same taste.

Remember, the way to improve our photography doesn't lie in the opinions of others.

Instead, the way to improve our photography is to trust our judgment, understand the elements of composition, and utilize them to create unique imagery.

The Introduction To Photography class starts soon. 
  
More ways to study and practice photography with me are below.

Call me if you need help determining the best course for you.

I'll help you be a better photographer—study and practice photography with me. 

Currently scheduled classes are below.

Smaller classes mean better learning, so class sizes are limited to 5 participants plus me.

But smaller classes also mean spots fill up quicker, so sign up soon. 

And what if the timing doesn't work for you in any of my scheduled group classes? Private in-person lessons suited to your schedule are always an option.

And remember, we learn and improve by doing, so practice making at least one picture daily.