FAO of BRUCE ACTION

[Al Tee]

I'll go along with Dom....."I"....
Al.

[Wheeler]

People don't necessarily have to be able to take stunning pictures to make valid critiques, whether positive or negative. Demanding photos from Bruce in return for his comments is a little incongruous. If he's a good photographer are you going to agree with his critiques all of a sudden?

Bruce has been a bit of a clown and he doesn't communicate well. However, he's probably enjoying the attention you're all giving him. Whilst you're all baying for photos so that perhaps you can return his sentiment with a harsh critique you may just be giving him what he wants. It's probably better to ignore him.

[Stephen]

Originally Posted by Wheeler

Whilst you're all baying for photos so that perhaps you can return his sentiment with a harsh critique you may just be giving him what he wants. It's probably better to ignore him.

Absolutely nailed it Wheeler
From the outset I have been suprised by the attitude of people contributing to this thread, even the Mods

[Chimpmeister]

Originally Posted by Wheeler

Bruce has been a bit of a clown and he doesn't communicate well. However, he's probably enjoying the attention you're all giving him. Whilst you're all baying for photos so that perhaps you can return his sentiment with a harsh critique you may just be giving him what he wants. It's probably better to ignore him.

We've asked (not 'bayed') for photos and got nothing. I would have thought it would be common courtesy to post you own work for comment before slating others work. Despite requests we get nothing, and the 'critiques' have been pretty negative. If he is 'enjoying attention' and not following the ettiquette expected by most of us then I suggest his presence here is not of value and therefore my suggestion of bouncing him off before his attitude causes us to turn on each other.

There are some superb photographers here but I don't see them harshly criticising many of our humble efforts. To give all the positive points and then suggest a couple of constructive suggestions is what this board seems to thrive on. I am sure there are forums elsewhere for critical people with a downer on everything and appauling grammar to take themselves to meet like minded people where they can all slag each other off. I have been pleasantly surprised by the friendly feel on here and I suggest we should strive to keep it that way.

[Wheeler]

Chimpmeister, I agree with you. However, I don't think it necessarily follows that seeing any of Bruce's work will help a great deal to justify any of his comments. Negative critique has just as much value as positive critique, but it's the delivery that's really the issue here.

Perhaps people might feel more inclined to accept critiques from someone who's shown that they have a grasp of the subject? What we all share (I hope) is an enthusiasm for taking photos and improving our output. Most of the people who look at my photos don't take their own pictures but I'm happy to listen to their views.

[Chimpmeister]

Originally Posted by Wheeler

Chimpmeister, I agree with you. However, I don't think it necessarily follows that seeing any of Bruce's work will help a great deal to justify any of his comments. Negative critique has just as much value as positive critique, but it's the delivery that's really the issue here.

Perhaps people might feel more inclined to accept critiques from someone who's shown that they have a grasp of the subject? What we all share (I hope) is an enthusiasm for taking photos and improving our output. Most of the people who look at my photos don't take their own pictures but I'm happy to listen to their views.

Yes I agree 100%. My concern is the effect of his comments on the people here - but you are right, we ignore him. If none of us respond until he earns our respect then he will surely get bored. If he is an amazing photographer (albeit obviously not a modest one) and goes on to earn a bit of respect then there is no problem.

[Andy]

O.K. I'll end this one now (the thread will be locked afterwards and we do not expect other threads on this specific matter)

No one is going to be 'bounced off'. The member in question (and maybe others) have received a clear message from a large number of members about style of critique... I think it is fair to give certain parties an opportunity to change their approach to critique, especially as this is a particularly friendly community and may differ from harsher enviroments elsewhere on the web.

This has always been a friendly and laid-back site, and we will keep it that way... but everyone is entitled to another chance, notably new members who stumble across WPF and contribute without having first judged the friendly mood of the site.

It is not compulsory to show your work before offering critique BUT those who follow this route should expect some cynicism from others.

Thanks,
Andy

edit: unfortunately Bruce failed take his chance