Critique Groups

Critique Groups offer a space for HCP members to give and receive feedback on their photographic practice.

Starting Fall 2024, Houston Center for Photography will be expanding its Critique Groups programming.

We are now offering online Critique Groups in addition to our regular in-person sessions. Online Critique Groups will be themed in conjunction with exhibitions on display at HCP and are open to any artists or attendees who align with the theme. We believe that this new format will make HCP’s critique services more accessible to all members.

HCP Critique Groups are designed to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment in which members are comfortable sharing their work, exchanging ideas, and receiving constructive feedback. All Critique Groups will be led by an expert photographer, working artist, or art professional who will review each portfolio and provide feedback.

Notes:

  • Critique groups are open for HCP members only. To become an HCP member please visit this link.

  • To allow more members to receive feedback, we ask you not to register to present in back-to-back critiques.

  • Presenters are strongly encouraged to show images that relate to each other allowing a more insightful conversation.

In-Person Critique format:

  • Open subject matter

  • 15-minute time slots for each presenter (plus 5-minute setup time)

  • 8 presenters showing 5-10 images each

  • 7 additional attendees (not showing work)

  • Work presented for critique must be printed. No images will be reviewed in a digital format.

  • For purposes of effective presentation, prints must be letter-size or larger (preferably printed on 250gr paper or thicker), totally flat (no curving/bending), and be ready for presentation without protective sleeves or boxes.

Online Critique Format:

  • Themed subject matter

  • 20-minute time slots for each presenter

  • 7 presenters showing 5-10 images each

  • 10 additional attendees (not showing work)

  • Work presented for critique must be in JPG format, sRGB, and 3000px on the longest side.

  • For purposes of effective presentation, please send all images via WeTransfer in a single email to education@hcponline.org

Upcoming Critique (Themed, Online)

Our first themed Critique Group will be led by exhibiting artist Matthew Finley, and is in dialogue with TOUCH / do we exist without photography. This group will have an LGBTQ+ focus. Bodies of work submitted for critique must depict LGBTQ+ subjects or themes.

Theme: LGBTQ+ related
Date: Thursday, November 7, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM CST
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: $0
Instructor: Matthew Finley
Prerequisite: Critique Groups are open for HCP members only.

Code of Conduct

HCP is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for its members. Behavior that disrespects a person’s rights, dignity, or self-worth will not be tolerated.

When participating in the critique, please be mindful to:

  • Allow everyone space to share their thoughts

  • Not dominate the conversation

  • Be constructive with your criticism - it’s an opportunity for growth!

  • Follow the instructor’s directions/time constraints

HCP reserves the right to remove anyone not following these guidelines from a session in progress and/or any future Critique Groups.