Feed Me Feedback

    Personally, I find that receiving feedback on your projects is one of the most beneficial things that you can do. As a result, I actively look for those who are willing to give me honest feedback about my work. One of the best ways that I can think of, and one that I will definitely try to implement more, is to just get a lot of different people to watch what you have made. When making a short film (or any type of art for that matter), the finished project is generally created for the public to enjoy. Sometimes, however, what you create can be a bit too specific to you or your friends’ sense of humor, making it less likely to appeal to wider audiences. If one gets opinions from a plethora of people--of different ages, majors, interests, circumstances--they will be better able to see how their work appeals to the general population as a whole. Many times, I have found that the majority of people will appreciate the idea of your work, however, they will also be able to give you suggestions on how to make it better, as well as letting you know where they may have become bored or confused. Obviously, one cannot implement every idea from each person who has a suggestion. However, if you know what exactly it is that you want to get across, I find that, oftentimes, implementing other’s ideas makes your own work more clear and enjoyable. In fact, some of my favorite things that I have put into my films have come as a result of my seeing what it is that other people think of when they hear my concept for the film. As far as utilizing this feedback, it is important to just make sure that you do not compromise the film by trying to please everyone--your idea is a good one, enhance, do not tailor to everyone’s whims. By doing these things, your work will be greatly improved and you will be more likely to create something that many others will love and appreciate.