Most overused phrases in photography?

MikeFairbanks wrote in post #12964555
I think one of the most overused phrases (I'm applying the term "phrase" loosely) is to constantly hate on Ken Rockwell. I happen to think he's right about a lot of things, and I admire that he put his passion to good use. I sometimes think he is a bit condescending, but I don't see what he's doing as a bad thing. He adds to the world of photography.

To be fair, I used to read Ken Rockwell's site before I ever got involved in photography forums or learned what other people thought of him. When I was much more of a novice than I am now, to learn about whatever topic, I'd Google search various photography terms, and his page is frequently in the top results. I read many of his articles without a pre-conceived bias.

But after a while I began to notice some trends: internally inconsistent opinions, rambling pointless diatribes prefacing most topics, and a volatile tone aiming to get a reaction, all littered with obnoxious bragging about how awesome he considers himself.

Later, I came to photography forums and found out that I was not alone in my reaction to his site. I still occasionally click through to see what Rockwell has to say, but have a hard time taking him seriously.

photoguy6405 wrote in post #12964311
I don't necessarily agree. It depends on if the person asked for feedback. If they didn't, then yes, it is best to move on. But if they are looking for feedback, then "this does nothing for me" is a valid comment on the subject matter and/or composition.

It would be helpful if the person expanded on that, though, and said *why* it does nothing for them.

I think people often know if an image appeals to them or interests them well before they know *why* it does so. They may not understand what factors led them to like a particular image. I think "this does nothing for me" could very well be those same folks saying the opposite - it doesn't appeal or interest me, but I don't really know why.

I think that can be a useful type of feedback, taken for what it is.

spkerer wrote in post #12967957
I think people often know if an image appeals to them or interests them well before they know *why* it does so. They may not understand what factors led them to like a particular image. I think "this does nothing for me" could very well be those same folks saying the opposite - it doesn't appeal or interest me, but I don't really know why.

I think that can be a useful type of feedback, taken for what it is.

Yes, but if you can't take the time to figure out why the shot does or does not appeal to you, you are not adding value.

I always tell me kids "Think about what you are thinking about; you need to understand why you are thinking that way."

If you don't understand your thoughts, how can you expect them to be valuable to another?

Have you never had a 'feeling' but didn't know why you had that feeling?

Roy Mathers wrote in post #12968308
Have you never had a 'feeling' but didn't know why you had that feeling?

Sure.. but I wouldn't share it, passing it off as constructive criticism, until I understood it. But that's me, others may place more credence in their gut.

EDIT: But, in general, I don't think it is too difficult to figure those things out. For example: it is too drab, I don't like the mix of colors. Having just a gut feeling on something normally comes down to something subjective that, if you try, can be expressed constructively.

hairy_moth wrote in post #12968317
Sure.. but I wouldn't share it, passing it off as constructive criticism, until I understood it. But that's me, others may place more credence in their gut.

EDIT: But, in general, I don't think it is too difficult to figure those things out. For example: it is too drab, I don't like the mix of colors. Having just a gut feeling on something normally comes down to something subjective that, if you try, can be expressed constructively.

I don't mean this is a nasty way, so please don't take it that way. Are you equally opposed to comments along the lines of "I really like that!" or "Excellent shot!" or other positive comments if they don't go on to explain why they like the shot or think it is an excellent shot?

spkerer wrote in post #12968504
I don't mean this is a nasty way, so please don't take it that way. Are you equally opposed to comments along the lines of "I really like that!" or "Excellent shot!" or other positive comments if they don't go on to explain why they like the shot or think it is an excellent shot?

I didn't take it as nasty, nor was my reply intended to come of that way (though often my replies are perceived that way).

I think many of us, when we post a picture are looking for encouragement or constructive criticism.

While I do think that it is more helpful to give some actual constructive criticism.. Saying something positive or encouraging, without clarification, is not likely to offend or even leave the artist wondering why.

hairy_moth wrote in post #12968601
I didn't take it as nasty, nor was my reply intended to come of that way (though often my replies are perceived that way).

I think many of us, when we post a picture are looking for encouragement or constructive criticism.

While I do think that it is more helpful to give some actual constructive criticism.. Saying something positive or encouraging, without clarification, is not likely to offend or even leave the artist wondering why.

This. I have had times where I could not really articulate *why* I like or dislike something, but that is the exception to the general rule. Given a modest amount of thought, I can usually come up with something.

Another Buy/Sell thing that bugs me: "sharp copy." Like anyone's going to assume you don't want a sharp copy or that you're selling a soft lens. It's like saying "FS: 1DSIII with all megapixels!"

"How much did that camera cost?"

Usually uttered by someone who is about to educate me regarding how much money I wasted.

photoguy6405 wrote in post #17482432
"How much did that camera cost?"

Usually uttered by someone who is about to educate me regarding how much money I wasted.

I hate that and it seems to happen a lot.

Art is the most overused word.

photoguy6405 wrote in post #17482432
"How much did that camera cost?"

I just say "Lots", smile and go on with what I was doing.

"Hey, how'd you get into my house!?!"

"Put that camera away!!!"

Hmm...maybe I'm doing it wrong...

First, am I the only one gettin' a kick outta' the fact that it was the thread starter who revived this after almost four years?

I hate when photographers talk about "capturing tomorrow's memories today" and crap like that.