Picking the Right Submission for Online Critique:

A Step-by-Step Guide

For the past six months, I've been diving into a weekly ritual that's both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

Every week, Steve Carty, the mastermind behind The Carty Method, hands out assignments.

The Carty Method is a fantastic online community where professional, aspiring, and beginner photographers come together to learn and grow.

I’m part of the submissions program, meaning I get to submit work based on Steve's weekly assignments. (If you want to know more about Steve, a true photography pro, check out SteveCarty.com.

Here's how it goes: Each week, I scramble to come up with a concept that fits the Brief, arrange and shoot it, edit the photos, and then submit my work for critique within 6 days.

I always think it'll get easier, but Steve keeps pushing our boundaries with assignments that stretch our skills to the next level.

Whether I nail it or fall short (which happens more often than I’d like to admit), it’s always a learning experience.

Seeing how other photographers tackle the same assignments is incredibly valuable and helps me grow.

Over time, I’ve developed a bit of a system to navigate these assignments, and I’d love to share it with you.

Think of these steps as a flexible template, not strict rules, to help you through each assignment.

How to Pick the Right Photo for Online Critique: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating an assignment involves several stages, from brainstorming to final touches. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Brainstorming and Concept Development

   Start by understanding the assignment’s requirements.

   Brainstorm ideas that align with the theme or technical challenge presented. Sketch out your concepts and consider the story or emotion you want to convey.

2. Planning and Preparation

   Once you have a concept, plan your shoot.

   Consider locations, props, and models if needed. Make a shot list to ensure you capture all the elements you need.

3. Execution

   With your plan in hand, it’s time to shoot.

   Pay attention to the technical aspects like lighting, composition, and focus. Follow the directions of the assignment closely, using your technical abilities to meet the requirements.

4. Editing

   After the shoot, edit your photos to enhance their quality.

   Adjust lighting, contrast, and colors to bring out the best in your images. Be mindful of the assignment’s guidelines while editing

   

   .

Creating the Actual Assignment: From Concept to Submission

1. Define Your Goals

   Before you choose a photo to submit for critique, take a moment to clarify your objectives.

   Are you seeking feedback on your technical skills, such as composition or lighting?

   Or are you looking for insights into the artistic and emotional impact of your work?

   Understanding your goals will guide you in selecting a photo that aligns with your desired areas of improvement.
   

2. Select Your Best Work

   Choose a photograph that you feel proud of and that represents your current skill level and style.
   

   Submitting your best work ensures that the critique focuses on enhancing your strengths and addressing specific areas for improvement.

   
   Avoid submitting photos that you consider incomplete or rushed, as they might not accurately reflect your abilities.

3. Consider the Audience

   Think about the platform and the community that will be providing the critique.

   Different photography forums and groups have varying levels of expertise and focus.

   
   For instance, if your niche is portrait photography, choose a community that specializes in this genre.
   
   A specialized portrait photography forum might offer detailed feedback on aspects such as lighting, posing, and expression, while a more general photography group might provide broader creative insights.

   
   Additionally, consider the assignment or brief you were following when you took the portrait.
   
   Did you aim to capture a specific mood, use a particular lighting technique, or follow a certain compositional rule?
   
   Including this information can help reviewers understand the context and provide more relevant and helpful feedback.
   
   For example, if you were practicing Rembrandt lighting, mention this in your submission to receive targeted advice on how well you executed the technique.

4. Prepare Your Submission

   Ensure that your photo is presented in the best possible quality.
   
   This means high-resolution images with proper lighting and clarity.
   
   Pay attention to details such as cropping, image size for viewing, and color correction.
   
   A well-prepared submission demonstrates professionalism and shows that you value the reviewers' time and effort.

5. Provide Context

   When submitting your photo, include a brief description that provides context.
   
   Explain your goals for the shot, any challenges you faced, and specific areas where you seek feedback.
   
   This information helps reviewers understand your perspective and offer more targeted and constructive criticism.
   

6. Be Open to Feedback

   Approach the critique process with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
   
   Not all feedback will be positive, and some may challenge your current approach.
   
   Embrace constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve and grow as a photographer.
   
   Remember, the goal is to gain new insights and perspectives that can help you advance your skills.

7. Reflect and Apply Feedback

   After receiving feedback, take the time to reflect on the comments and suggestions.
   
   Identify common themes and consider how you can incorporate the advice into your future work.
   
   Applying the feedback thoughtfully will help you make meaningful progress in your photography journey.

By following these steps, you can make the most out of online critiques and use them as a valuable tool for your creative and professional development as a photographer.

Last Photo Submission _ “Made Photo of the Week”

I'm hoping these tips will help you on your next submission.

I encourage anyone looking to grow in their photography endeavors no matter what stage to join a program like The Carty Method and start submitting work for critique.

It’s a game changer.

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It helps me grow as a writer and lets me know I’m on the right track. Keep clicking!!!

Nuttin but Love!!!

Website: Eyes True Photography

Instagram : Eyes True Photography / Du-Rel Artworks