Preparing for the Web
Preparing your images for the web is
important so that they look the best they can on screen. Here are some simple
tips to remember before you upload your shots.
Colour space
Most cameras shoot in Adobe RGB colour
space, which is great for editing images and prints. However before you upload
online, you will need to convert them to sRGB colour profile. This will help to
prevent colours from appearing washed-out on screen
Image size
Just because you can put up a bug image
file doesn’t mean that you should. Smaller images sizes will in fact help to
protect your work from the possibility of being taken off the web without your
permission. Just ensure they are large enough to show good quality and detail.
Copyright
It’s always important to protect the work
put online. However a great big watermark across an image can put people off
and won’t be helpful if you want an honest review. Either use a smaller
watermark or copyright protection software to prevent copies being taken off
the web
Your opinions
4colour progress
The only ‘real’ place to get an honest
critique is by sharing images on forums. Comments like ‘cool’, or ‘beautiful’
are okay for a quick ego boost but they don’t do anything to help you grow as a
photographer. The reason they are only ‘liking’ your images so they in return
will receive a like back
Miaumann
There is a difference between ‘commenting’
on something, and giving a ‘critique’. Critiques should be longer and more
useful written pieces of text. Hopefully pointing out the viewer’s opinions on
the selected pieces of art and talking about colours, compositions etc.
Ric Hampton
I’m open to constructive criticism on my
photos and always take it onboard in a positive way, but I don’t excuse bad
manners and just downright rudeness. I don’t necessarily see good quick
comments as being nothing more than ‘ego boosters’. There’s nothing wrong with
seeing a great image and taking the time comment in this way. I’d rather
someone left a ‘great pic’ comment then not take the time to leave anything at
all.
Alwin
On a forum some people actually take the
time to provide useful feedback, trying to help. But of course it only helps if
they recipient is willing to accept to critique. Let’s go not also forget that
sometimes not receiving any comments can be a sign of how well your photo is
received.
Portfolio reviews
Here are a selection of providers
offering professional feedback
The Society of Wedding & Portrait
Photographers (SWPP)
Web: www.swpp.co.uk
The SWPP offers qualifications, which
include an optional mentor me programme. Not only will you receive guidance on
your work but also get support if you are planning to set up your own
photographic business. Please visit the SWPP’s website for more information.
The British Institute of Professional
Photographers (BIPP)
Web: www.bipp.com
The BIPP hold regular portfolio review days
across the country. Offering pro-advice from trained advisors, you can get some
great guidance on your work. Prices do vary depending on whether you’re a
member or non-member. For more information, please visit the BIPP website.
The Royal Photographic Society (RPS)
Web: www.rps.org
The RPS offers recognized qualifications
that members can work towards. You can attend regular advisory days around the
country if you are considering to apply or want feedback on your work. Please
check their website for more information on available dates.
