Every photo invites other members to start a conversation. Some photographers simply want a friendly chat, while others explicitly seek honest criticism and concrete suggestions. The criticism level lets you indicate the type of exchange you want right when you upload your photo.
Respect applies at every criticism level. Even with constructive criticism, personal or hurtful remarks are not appropriate.
Helpful feedback doesn’t say what the photographer supposedly did wrong. Instead, describe how the photo affects you. Phrases like “The dark foreground feels a bit dominant to me” leave room for other perspectives.
Photos affect people differently. You don’t need to be a better photographer than the person who took the photo to describe what stands out to you. Your feedback shows how the photo impacts you as a viewer.
You don’t have to accept someone else’s opinion. If you disagree, you can briefly explain your point of view and still thank the person for engaging with your photo.
Remember: The criticism level indicates the desired type of exchange. Judge the photo, not the photographer.