I would, however, prefer to keep such a thread here on GermanCarForum and not Curbzone.
I would much prefer it to be based at germancarforum.com rather than at Curbzone because the flow of traffic and participation at Curbzone has really dried up, so I feel the only way such an idea would work well is if it were based here at germancarforum.com
Problem is, such a section is mostly photography-based, so admin might object...BUT, if we all kindly insist such a section be created at germancarforum.com, then I'm pretty sure they'll be okay with it.
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I've thought about starting a Comments & Critique section on other forums, but the problem I found is that a lot of people can't take or don't want to hear bad things about their pictures. Honestly I can pick out something wrong with every single one of my images, no such thing as perfect...every image can be better, every photographer can get better.
The other problem with people who take pictures and want to get better is that when they post their so-so or even crappy pics everyone is so polite and you always get the "awesome image" or "nice pic, great job" etc...You don't really learn or improve that way.
VERY GOOD points there Itz!
On other forums which are much larger than GermanCarForum.com, those points you made would definitely be a cause for concern, but I'm of the same opinion as Jack. I feel that when it comes to the members here who regularly participate in the photo comps, we have developed a sense of friendship and mutual respect, so I don't think any member who posts a photo hoping for some constructive criticism/feedback would end up getting upset or take any comments too personally. I feel there's a common understanding between us here that eventhough we do all compete in the competitions, we enjoy seeing each others skills grow. There are a number of photography threads already where members encourage each other and gives a variety of tips and tricks to help each other (quick example: the HDR photography thread where Chris and NevadaJack exchanged thoughts, tips, tricks, and photos for many many pages...and I'll be honest and say I learnt a lot from simply 'sitting in' on their discussion).
So I doubt anyone's going to get their 'panties in a bunch' when others give them feedback. I guess the key to the success of such an idea is HOW advice, criticism, tips are worded. I feel that I've given Ree some good advice over the last week or so, and I've taken great effort to word it in a manner which sounds encouraging and positive rather than been too critical, harsh and demoralising.
As for your other good point about the problem of 'sugar-coating' the quality of fairly poor photos... well, I guess for this sort of photo it's best to realise the photographer is an actual amateur who needs the most basic advice first rather than a whole bunch of photographic jargon thrown at them. If we know that a specific photographer is very talent yet he/she posts a fairly 'crappy' photo, then I guess we have to be nice and honest and say that 'I think you've done better, for example your photo of...." ...but if the photographer is an amateur, then it's more about simple advice such as: keep the horizon level, watch out for taking photos against the sun, try macro mode on your point-and-shoot...as opposed to technical advice such as: should try to go for more depth of field, I think HDR could help better capture the scene, reduce your shutter speed to get that silky-water look...and so on.
Of course there will be challenges, but I honestly think that the friendship and encouragement that exists within this forum makes it a perfect place for such an idea to work successfully. I can just tell that there are a handful of members here (who participate inh the photo comps) who really want to try and improve their photo skills...heck I was in the same boat when I first had a point-and-shoot and kept wondering how that person got such a photo. Again using Ree as an example, I feel that he's been very appreciative of the simple advice I gave him last week, and I can tell he's going to benefit from it and become a better photographer because of it. I don't ever proclaim to be any sort of photography expert (FAR from it)..but I've learnt things which I know other members - such as Ree - would find very helpful and keep their passion for photography growing.
If the idea were to go ahead, of course there would have to be some sort of rules, like 2 photos per member per week, whether you need photography tips or post-processing tips (eg: Photoshop enhancements)..and other things.
Keep the discussion going guys, I'd like to hear more peoples opinions and ALSO more criticisms/issues with this idea.
