Personally, I think any art-related forum would just set the stage for flame wars and heated discussions.
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I think if any discussion results in "flame wars" its just a real sign of immaturity of those involved.
Frankly, "general photography" just doesn't cut it for me. I like the people on this forum, but unless it evolves rather quickly, it's going to stagnate and members will go elsewhere. There have already been comments about how "nothing much" is happening (because people are looking at the topics and seeing a long list of Nikon cameras that don't necessarily apply to them, and the most important, photography, lumped as one listing) and I hate to see that because I think this site has potential.
My opinion is that the general photography category should be subdivided into areas such as,
entry level (how many people come here and need serious beginner help not just with their cameras, but with photography in general, and not feel stupid about it),
portraiture (studio and environmental -- use of lighting),
wildlife photography, landscape photography, etc. All of these have specific techniques.
Other categories could be
printing, print competitions, wedding and event, freelancing and commercial (yes, there should be a place where those who call themselves "professional" can feel welcome to discuss the business end of it and other issues --the key word here is WELCOME). There are categories that could be added rather quickly to give visitors to the forum the impression that there is a lot going on. Right now on this forum, it appears that owning a Nikon is the ends rather than a "means to the ends", the "ends" being photography. There could even be a category for
"snapshooters" -- not everyone who owns a Nikon wants to be an artist/photographer --they just want to record or document the special moments.
And yes,
fine art photography should be one. I'm finding myself spending more time on a photo forum that has specifically that topic (among other really interesting ones including camera specific ones) described as
"Photography as a visual artform open to any serious picture, where photography is the mode of our expression" There's even a topic called
art theory and ideas with the description:
Warning, not the truth here, just a venture. Examining what makes an image worthy of saving and what it does for us. Apparently they're not afraid of "flame wars." and this IS a forum for photographers.
I'm not saying we have to be exactly like them, but there is a real need for growth and diversity here. Those photographers who want to talk about art in photography, should have a place here, just like those who don't want to, and like I said, "general photography" doesn't cover it.
I would like to be a part of this community and these suggestions are put forward with a kind heart and good will. I want to grow in my craft, and I want my experience here to reflect that. A forum is only as good as its community of members.
Just my humble opinion. But then, it's not my playground, and I guess if my feedback is not welcome, somebody will tell me to "take my toys" and go elsewhere.
Best Regards