What do you do if you receive feedback as a photographer that you strongly disagree with?

2 Reflect Deeply

After receiving the feedback, take some time to reflect on it deeply. Consider why the person might have that opinion and what aspects of your work led to their comments. Sometimes, stepping away from your emotional attachment to the piece can reveal insights you may have missed. Reflecting isn't about changing your style to suit others but about understanding different perspectives and finding value in them. This process can be enlightening and might even inspire you to experiment with new techniques or ideas.

3 Seek Clarity

If the feedback is unclear or seems unfounded, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Engaging in a dialogue can help you understand the context and specifics behind the critique. This step is essential because it ensures that you're not misinterpreting the feedback or the intentions behind it. A clear understanding can also help you decide whether there's a lesson to be learned or if it's simply a matter of differing artistic tastes.

4 Analyze Objectively

Once you have clarity, try to analyze the feedback objectively. Separate your personal feelings from the critique and look at your work as if it were someone else's. This can be difficult, but it's a valuable skill that allows you to evaluate your work critically. Consider the technical aspects, composition, and overall impact of your photographs. Is there any truth to the feedback that could help you refine your craft? Objective analysis can turn even the harshest critique into a tool for improvement.

5 Engage Wisely

When you decide to engage with the person who provided the feedback, do so wisely. Approach the conversation with a mindset of learning rather than defending your work. If you choose to explain your artistic choices, do it without expecting the other person to change their opinion. The goal is not to win an argument but to gain a better understanding of different viewpoints and possibly explain your creative process. This exchange can be an opportunity for both parties to learn from each other.

6 Evolve Creatively

Finally, use the feedback as a catalyst for creative evolution. Whether you agree with it or not, each piece of criticism is a chance to reassess your work and grow as an artist. You don't have to compromise your vision, but be open to exploring new ideas and pushing your boundaries. The ability to evolve creatively is what keeps your work fresh and exciting, and sometimes feedback can be the nudge you need to take your photography to the next level.