Critique Groups

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

Critique Groups take place in-person or online on a bi-monthly basis and 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 are led by an expert photographer, working artist, or art professional guiding the conversation and the feedback. Online Critique Groups are themed in conjunction with exhibitions on display at HCP.

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

  • 25-minute time slots for each presenter

  • 6 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 share with education@hcponline.org a link to download all image files in advance.

Upcoming Critique

Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST
Location: Houston Center for Photography
Cost: $0
Instructor: Jessi Bowman, Founder & Curator, FLATS
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.