The “Value” of Loved photos
It's often that we all probably view social media posts throughout the day, some more than others I'm sure. However for me personally, I visit it primarily to engage the community or to view the work of others. I don't view pictures often to criticize, but I view to either influence me, inspire me, or simply to appreciate creativity.
Conversely, I post on my instagram feed, the latest project that I am working on, or re-purposing a previous photo that's pertinent to the current trend or celebrated occasion. However, mostly I am posting sport images and as a result, the majority of the "likes" surround my sport themed posts. A close second are military or patriotic themed posts. Having spent 26 years in the Navy, I have many experiences that are shared on my professional page.
The other feedback that I gather, is the comments or the positive indicators that the image is well received. Understanding that from a business perspective, I want to make sure that what I post attracts new followers or subscribers, which in turn may lead to further business. I want to also maintain the current followers with satisfying content. It's my own form of analytics.
This brings me to my point, some of the comments or "likes" are done by family and or close friends. It is always appreciated and does certainly makes a difference. However, it's almost understood, that if a family member or close friend comments or "likes" the image - they may be somewhat biased. They are approving the image because they want to support your work. They want to make a positive comment and pat you on the back. It brings high praise and it provides encouragement for a period of time. It almost helps validate your work as good or even great. At some point though, it starts descending abruptly, when you see the same person comment on another photo, which you find to be questionable, or perhaps improperly shot (technique) wise and you see the comment " LOVE THIS" "LOVE IT" "GREAT PHOTO". In it's own right, the content may be of something personal to them. Or it may be of a moment in time that will never be repeated, which makes it "LOVE" worthy. It now puts into question, the baseline for which they rate photography. If your professionally shot photo earned a "Love" and a blurry, shadow casted, poor composition, snap shot earns a "Love" then what is the threshold?
Are they qualified to further rate your photos or are they simply appreciated for their kindness but not factored into the equation. I'll agree, there could be many opinions for a photograph, they all don't need to agree. After all, photography is subjective, but if you are receiving feedback from a person and they are the constant - then the point is valid, what is truly a "loved" photo? In the end, just simply shoot what you enjoy to photograph, but don’t always take comments personally or simply do it for the likes or loves, it is all relative and it doesn’t define you. Constantly review your work and progress at your own pace. However, if you are starting your photography business, then yes have your work evaluated by professionals who will be unbiased with their critique. Once you are ready to charge a client, your work should be undoubtly professional in quality. Photography is a very competative field, you at least should be competing with a sound product, strong work ethic and a desire to constantly improve your craft. Together we build the community by always improving our skills.