Apr 3, 2016, 06:10
I agree with all you've said there, Philip. Aside from the fact that I do consider myself a beginner. I've only been doing this a couple of years and I'm still pretty much floundering around in the darkness - quite literally on occasions.
Continuous learning is one of the most important things in life. I'm a pretty decent guitar picker (hopefully Jocko will attest to this) but I still take lessons and, as often as possible, these lessons are from some of the best players in the world. One of my photographer teachers/mentors is one of the top photographers in the country, FRPS, sits on RPS assessment panels. I prefer to spend my money on courses (on any subject, often random, such as a week's falconry course) rather than things. So, yes, I'm a massive fan of continuous learning, too.
I just worry that EXIF data becomes a substitute for discussion and that sharing that you've mentioned. Look at the last ten critique discussions - how much sharing and discussion have the images generated? I'm new here and I'm not trying to rock the boat. Every forum has it's own style and culture - but I'd hate to think someone would look at a photo, wonder on things such as camera and lens and focal length (as if those things would help them achieve a similar result), and get that info from the file rather than having a conversation about it. But I do agree - a bit more background to the pictures would be welcome, including but not restricted to the key technical data. Where, when are good - the why is more important. But maybe this is just me - composition and content are what floats my boat. I tend to look at as many art books as I do photography books, so maybe I'm just not an EXIF type of guy. Will include it going forward though.
Regards
Derek
Continuous learning is one of the most important things in life. I'm a pretty decent guitar picker (hopefully Jocko will attest to this) but I still take lessons and, as often as possible, these lessons are from some of the best players in the world. One of my photographer teachers/mentors is one of the top photographers in the country, FRPS, sits on RPS assessment panels. I prefer to spend my money on courses (on any subject, often random, such as a week's falconry course) rather than things. So, yes, I'm a massive fan of continuous learning, too.
I just worry that EXIF data becomes a substitute for discussion and that sharing that you've mentioned. Look at the last ten critique discussions - how much sharing and discussion have the images generated? I'm new here and I'm not trying to rock the boat. Every forum has it's own style and culture - but I'd hate to think someone would look at a photo, wonder on things such as camera and lens and focal length (as if those things would help them achieve a similar result), and get that info from the file rather than having a conversation about it. But I do agree - a bit more background to the pictures would be welcome, including but not restricted to the key technical data. Where, when are good - the why is more important. But maybe this is just me - composition and content are what floats my boat. I tend to look at as many art books as I do photography books, so maybe I'm just not an EXIF type of guy. Will include it going forward though.
Regards
Derek