Criticism is never easy to take, but if you can keep yourself from getting defensive you might find some real value that will drive your photography skills and business.

This is the thing, nobody likes getting criticism. We tend to take it as a mini attack, our ego’s get bruised and it’s easy to get upset. The reality is however, that as photographers and artists, or anyone who gets up and puts their work out there in public – at some point criticism will come your way, be it deserved or not.

It’s important to remember that we can develop a filter, and so tune out that’s not relevant or worth listening to. It’s equally important to keep in mind that criticism, for example with regards to your photography or your business can be invaluable.  Not only will it help you refine your skills and approach, it will also help you grow as a person. The trick here is to know the difference between constructive criticism, and criticism that’s actually just from someone who feels they have to add their 5 cents.

The Art of Manliness shared this very helpful clip that gives you a few tips on how to take criticism, without getting defensive. Don’t be put off by their channel name, these tips are relevant to everyone and are based on criticism in general. Out of interest, you can also find 6 tips on “How to Give Effective Criticism” below.

[Via The Art of Manliness and Petapixel]