A few weeks ago we launched our first Screenshot Community Event giving everyone the opportunity to submit a screenshot for Skyrim, Skyrim SE, Enderal, Fallout 4, and Fallout 76 depicting the event theme "Conflict and Struggle" and potentially win one of three prizes which would be awarded at random to three different participants.
The turnout has been great with hundreds of screenshots having been submitted and we, the Nexus Mods team, as well as our co-organisers Excellentium and napoleonofthestump have been stunned by all the amazing screenshots our community has come up with over the past weeks the event has run. We have since been hard at work looking through every single entry from each participant who filled out the entry form to pick our 15 favourites for the jury selection. Please note that while these are our 15 favourite shots, this event is more about having everyone participate and contribute - veterans and newcomers alike. That is why the three prizes (three £25 Steam Gift Cards) are awarded randomly - two go to two randomly chosen artists from the jury selection, and one goes to a random participant from the event.
You can find out who won the three individual prizes at the end of this news post.
Jury Selection
Naturally, judging a piece of art is a very subjective and difficult endeavour, so please keep in mind that these shots are not necessarily the "best" or "most beautiful" ones. I can speak for myself as well as our co-organisers that narrowing it down to 15 shots total was not an easy task, due to the amount of high-quality entries submitted. While we tried our best to be somewhat objective, in the end, it all lies in the eye of the beholder. You can read a short blurb about our reasoning for choosing a particular shot by clicking on the spoiler tag below a given image. With that being said, here are our 15 favourite shots in no particular order:
Note: All images can be viewed in their original resolution on the respective image page (click the hyperlink that says "full set").
Left: submitted by VictoriaG - full set - Right: submitted by radbeetle - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
Sometimes the best way to face a conflict or a struggle is to use sheer brute force and then show any opponent who is boss! This shot is all about that and the dynamic movement of her kick and the raider going down makes it a fantastic action capture.
- Excellentium
Right
You really don't need a bunch of fancy ENB effects, capital D Drama, SF genre tropes turned up to eleven, or sorta-but-not-quite photorealistic trappings to make an effective piece of digital art. This diptych tells its story perfectly effectively in a quiet, understated way that only adds to its power as a piece. The attention to detail here is worth noting: Observe the selective use of warm and cool color - especially in the lighting - the figure's mirrored pose, the unconventional angle of view, and the way that the background elements are framed and presented in soft - but still intelligible - focus. It takes artistic confidence to present such a subtle image in a public contest, confidence well earned.
- napoleonofthestump
Left: submitted by Bennzoor - full set - Right: submitted by Simboker - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
I'm very fond of portraits that are able to portray an emotion or feeling without being too obvious about it. The glimpse of something in the corner of the eye, the glance of a memory or a reflection of what the character is facing at the moment. This is what I see in this man's face - a torn struggle within himself before a decision has to be made, or a situation needs to be solved.
- Excellentium
Right
Thinking of conflict and struggle in the world of Skyrim the Civil War immediately comes to mind. This shot gives us a glimpse of what the Civil War could have been like in the game. What I particularly like about this shot is the composition with the relatively large group of soldiers marching off towards a thick fog wall - obfuscating the view and making it unclear what they are marching towards. Victory? Defeat? The shot leaves us wondering, and that is what makes it great.
- BigBizkit
Left: submitted by Reaper060389 - full set - Right: submitted by defa23 - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
The first time I saw this shot I immediately thought "Wow, this is wallpaper material! It skillfully depicts a high stakes, fast-paced, and very dynamic conflict. The blue of the laser guns gives a nice contrast to the overall brown-ish tone of the barren scenery.
- BigBizkit
Right
Naturally, dragons are at the heart and centre of every conflict in the world of Skyrim. This shot beautifully depicts that with five horse-mounted warriors charging off into battle against one massive, upscaled dragon, looming in the background and menacingly staring at the protagonists.
- BigBizkit
Left: submitted by EDCVBNM - full set - Right: submitted by EDV120 - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
All good compositions require balance and consistency - even, perhaps especially, when the artist deliberately decides to create an unbalanced or inconsistent frame. Aspiring screen-archers could stand to learn a lot from the way this image has been framed. Strong diagonal lines predominate, clearly drawing the eye where the artist intends it to go. Notice the placement of background elements in relationship to foreground elements. The positions of the two central figures perfectly balance (follow the same angled diagonal along the raider's arm, the haft of the mutant's weapon, and the off-center dynamic lines that are created by their ever-so-slightly leaning, twisting poses). Quite a lot of mileage out of a subtle color palette. Very skillful use of depth-of-field and lens effects to emphasize, rather than distract from, the central image.
- napoleonofthestump
Right
There's a certain appeal to a series of delicately composed little images all together in one place. Compositions like this are a screen-shooter's Cornell Box (look it up, nerds). The bloom effects here are particularly well calibrated - grainy and full without that distracting 'blow-out' effect that heavy bloom often has. While I can't help but feel that the piece would have benefited from a more selective balance of spot color and neutral tones over the whole-image desaturated cool tones, the set is still much clearer to 'read' than it would be had all the colors been at normal saturation.
- napoleonofthestump
Left: submitted by Hawkscr1mer - full set - Right: submitted by Irstina - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
Conflict (as popularly interpreted here) mostly involved two parties - in this case two personas within the same individual - so diptychs of one sort or another were pretty common for this event. This one stands out, again for the display of confidence in the artist's own aesthetic sensibilities. It helps that the face on display here was sculpted with care and attention to detail - the figure is certainly stylized, but that style is restrained and believable. A muted palette is again used to good effect, though perhaps a range of neutral tones would have distinguished figure from ground more noticeably than the wholesale desaturation and bleaching utilized here. Again, the relative subtlety of the piece struck me as unique, interesting, and worth coming back to look at another time.
- napoleonofthestump
Right
A struggle is just as much about making hard decisions and even more so when there are great conflicts at hand. This burden falls on the shoulders of generals and commanders, but even those need an encouraging hand from someone loyal and reliable at difficult times. The great expression of concern and comfort in lieutenant Rikke as she tries to boost general Tullius at the wartable in this shot truly speaks to me.
- Excellentium
Left: submitted by Kazeii1 - full set - Right: submitted by MagdalenaA - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
Out of all the contributions I've looked through today, and that's all of them, this one was the first I picked as a favorite. It simply describes the hard struggle against environment, predators, and the very survival with a remarkable sense. The cold has been bringing him to his knees for maybe hours, fingers and limbs going numb and frozen, the only warmth still around being that of his breath and the blood running through his veins... and that's something the wild animals of a harsh land are seeking out for prey - the conflict of survival, be it man, animal, or nature itself.
- Excellentium
Right
I like the sense of grand scale that this image conveys. The depiction of a vast, inhuman, warlike architecture wholly at odds with nature and its forms conveys the feeling of 'Conflict' in a more deeply resonant manner than any number of simulated fisticuffs. These shapes are awful and dreadful - they inspire awe and dread - and the quality of the photography - dark, grainy, bottom-lit - picks this up and amplifies the feeling. You have to pay attention to this image to get something out of it, which is part of the reason I like it so much.
- napoleonofthestump
Left: submitted by ImmotalIce - full set - Right: submitted by polingc - full set
Spoiler:
Show
Left
The location for this shot with the eery, teal, glow is magical - whimsical even in a way - and thus the perfect stage for a clash between two masters of the arcane arts. The struggle of the two mages in the centre of the shot is the perfect depiction of conflict amidst beautiful and likewise intriguing scenery.
- BigBizkit
Right
Struggle in the world of Skyrim can be about many things, and in this shot, we can observe the struggle of a character having lost a dear companion in battle. The pose really works to emphasise the despair and pain the character is feeling at the moment of realisation, conveying the emotions in a powerful way.
The panic is immediate in this shot and it makes the conflict feel close and real, the struggle as chaotic as it should be when stuck in a gunfight against uncertain odds. The pose is just as much a covering from stray bullets as it is a hiding from everything around the character at this very moment. He looks more scared than he probably should admit, and this makes the image even more interesting to me.
- Excellentium
Community Selection
But that's not all - oh no! Almost 100 of you have submitted an entry - some of you submitted one shot of your choice - others entered entire sets into the event. The outpour of creativity has truly been astounding and, therefore, we would like to show off some of the work from every participant who entered the event by filling out the entry form:
Also thanks to everyone who contributed their shots to the event category, but did not enter the draw by filling out the entry form. In that regard: an honourable mention goes to SomewhatWindy and sa547 whose shots have been duly noted!
Last but not least - the three £25 Steam Gift Cards go to...
Two randomly chosen participants from the jury selection:
Spoiler:
Show
Congratulations to radbeetle and Hawkscr1mer! Please check your PM box for a message from staff.
One randomly chosen participant from the entire event:
Spoiler:
Show
Congratulations to chimichanga78! Please check your PM box for a message from staff.
I hope you all enjoyed the event and we are looking forward to seeing you back for the next one! Stay tuned and happy modding!
I like to see myself as something of a photographer, or well, photography hobbyist? heh..
Unfortunately, I kept looking at this event thingy and seemed to feel very uncomfortable and anxious. I obviously wanted to join in but I have always looked at the images and how they are rated / voted / judged / call it what you will (the very thing that this screenshot / image "event" involves - being judged and winners selected over others), anyway I've always looked at how images are rated and it's mostly boobs n ass that get endorsements and then ego boosts and I dunno.. I just get jaded.
Anyway, back on-topic.. being as self imposed jaded as I seem to be, I instantly felt hesitant to 'enter'? this event thingy. I still think it's great and can be fun and all, but I guess I must need more encouragement hehe I dunno <_<
I think my conflict (oops sorry) lies in the title; "Screenshot".
Therein lies the dilemma. Can you edit the screenshot? If the screenshots are being judged and prizes given out, how does the poor guy who can't afford photoshop or happens to be dyslexic and struggles with tiny words on a screen, possibly compete (yes you are unnavoidably in competition here) with those who have super duper photo shop and all that stuff?
I've attempted explaining why everything you've listed is wrong before and all I've gotten for response was either a "We don't care" or outright harassment. So I wouldn't expect much if you're looking for answers.
In response to post #69425069. #69429485 is also a reply to the same post.
Spoiler:
Show
V1K1N9 wrote: I like to see myself as something of a photographer, or well, photography hobbyist? heh.. Unfortunately, I kept looking at this event thingy and seemed to feel very uncomfortable and anxious. I obviously wanted to join in but I have always looked at the images and how they are rated / voted / judged / call it what you will (the very thing that this screenshot / image "event" involves - being judged and winners selected over others), anyway I've always looked at how images are rated and it's mostly boobs n ass that get endorsements and then ego boosts and I dunno.. I just get jaded. Anyway, back on-topic.. being as self imposed jaded as I seem to be, I instantly felt hesitant to 'enter'? this event thingy. I still think it's great and can be fun and all, but I guess I must need more encouragement hehe I dunno <_< I think my conflict (oops sorry) lies in the title; "Screenshot". Therein lies the dilemma. Can you edit the screenshot? If the screenshots are being judged and prizes given out, how does the poor guy who can't afford photoshop or happens to be dyslexic and struggles with tiny words on a screen, possibly compete (yes you are unnavoidably in competition here) with those who have super duper photo shop and all that stuff? <hides under a table>
Fyrcynn wrote: I've attempted explaining why everything you've listed is wrong before and all I've gotten for response was either a "We don't care" or outright harassment. So I wouldn't expect much if you're looking for answers.
You can be assured a lot feel as you do, OP. Producing copypasta clickbait for like harvesting is a common theme in most digital medium online galleries. The render "communities" are no better, but they do put on tiered contests with much tighter rules for new users generally.
Apparently the consensus here was "carte blanche". While a person can create very nice screens using simple console commands and a basic knowledge of composition and light, unfortunately the usual new user reaction to an established community is a perception that they "need" every bell and whistle. (a common problem in all competition). There is no encouragement or venue here for a new user to establish basic skills with the basic tools.
A good non pretentious basic guide to screenshots. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3PW3LanlPE
Also do a search for GIMP, a free imaging program that is more than you need to edit screenshots.
This trend where people end statements with a question mark needs to end. Also the female form is arguably one of the most beautiful forms in all of creation, as any amazing scenery and deserves it's due in any screen shot competition.
First, don't do it for the sake of winning. Second, how you want to express your creativity or vision is up to you. Don't got tie down by invisible rules or naysayers. Third, look around Flickr Skyrim groups for ideas of how other people do their shots. Obviously NSFW warning, not all contents are high quality. Nexus gallery? Eh.... if they can do better job of filtering things & make a more attractive UI... Generally I don't wanna call what I do "screenshots", I just call it "shots" - not only it's more appropriate, also it's easier to write (lel). //-- As far as software goes, no you don't need photoshop. Microsoft have all you needs - Paint3D & Image Composite Editor (ICE - for panorama purpose). And there are plenty of free apps around on Windows Store. You really won't need anything more than cropping and minor brightness contrast adjustments. We're not painting or drawing things here, but post-processing. //-- Remember, do this for fun. I can clearly see the community is steering the whole idea into a completely wrong turn. Is winning really that important?
V1K1N9: Don't sweat the rating game if that's not your bag. Plenty of folks around here don't give a fig about endorsement counts. As far as the contest elements of this event, they were conceived more as incentive to newcomers (some folks really enjoy the competitive element, and some folks will be more motivated to participate in a community event if there's a chance of winning a prize) than as any sort of holy writ on our vaunted opinion of what makes a worthwhile screen-shot. If you're curious about why we chose the images we did, check out the commentary behind the spoiler tags. If you're looking for a no-stakes community theme, might I direct your attention to my and Excellentium's Community Theme events in Fallout and Skyrim, respectively? All are welcome, no post-processing necessary (and no post-processors hassled either).
To use a photography term, these are not 'screenshots'. They are 'compositions'. They are composed, edited, tweaked, altered, and otherwise significantly and materially different from the originals. Each and every single 'composition' here falls under that category.
A 'screenshot' is just that. You hit Print Screen (or equivalent) on the keyboard and save a copy to your local hard drive then upload that picture. No post-processing or other alterations. That's what a screenshot is.
I guess I'll repeat myself: When Nexus wants to do actual screenshot contests instead of 'composition' contests then I'll gladly participate. It will open up such activities to a much wider audience when the barrier to entry is far lower.
EDIT: Using in-game photo tools like the ones in BDO and other games is ok. I'm referring to external/3rd party tools that people may not have the training/time/inclination to use. People seem to forget that Photoshop/GIMP/Blender require a specific skill set.
Agreed Daedalus. At what point after a player has added complete location sets, clothing from other games etc etc does an image no longer even remotely resemble a "screenshot"
We already have images that do not contain a single identifiable Skyrim element.
Adding new content isn't the problem. Without added content there would be no modding. The issues start when someone is using image manipulation software to enhance a picture when they could have done the same or even better ingame.
To use a photography term, these are not 'screenshots'. They are 'compositions'. They are composed, edited, tweaked, altered, and otherwise significantly and materially different from the originals. Each and every single 'composition' here falls under that category.
A 'screenshot' is just that. You hit Print Screen (or equivalent) on the keyboard and save a copy to your local hard drive then upload that picture. No post-processing or other alterations. That's what a screenshot is.
I guess I'll repeat myself: When Nexus wants to do actual screenshot contests instead of 'composition' contests then I'll gladly participate. It will open up such activities to a much wider audience when the barrier to entry is far lower.
EDIT: Using in-game photo tools like the ones in BDO and other games is ok. I'm referring to external/3rd party tools that people may not have the training/time/inclination to use. People seem to forget that Photoshop/GIMP/Blender require a specific skill set.
The fatal flaw in your statement (and one that those who've been vocal enough to complain about it seem to not understand, or choose to conveniently ignore) is that most of the final selection (barring a few, who have been open and honest about it & never attempted to decieve anyone) in the event are not post-edited to any significant degree. They are actual in-game screenshots. It feels somewhat disingenuous to cry fowl & accuse some of having an unfair advantage; by doing so, you belittle & ridicule the skills that these individuals have built up over numerous years & potentially thousands of hours of honing their craft.
This event was meant to be a celebration of the skills that many here at Nexus possess (and have developed over years of practice) when it comes to screenarchery, showing just how amazing you can make these games look if you have the relevant skills/experience. At the same time, this does not destroy any possibility for relative newcomers to showcase an amazing screenshot that they took.
The event was open to all, regardless of ability or experience, and therefore was clearly as inclusive as it could possibly be- if anyone felt like they were unable to enter (because in their own opinion/belief, they lacked the skills) that belief stemmed from them, not the organizers, nor the 'rules' or anything else. In this hypothetical scenario that some complaining have posited, it should be obvious that the individual is responsible for their decision whether to participate or not. With that said, it bears remembering that one of the three 'selections' was awarded to a randomly selected entry from all the entries recieved.
Note that at no point did the organizers refer to this as some kind of 'competion', yet the belief that it was seems to have stemmed from the fact that 'prizes' were awarded - even though it should be obvious that a Nexus-hosted event of this nature would include awards of some sort, as an added incentive to encourage participation from those users who likely have never contributed to the (non-Nexus-affiliated) Community Themes. Never saw this kind of outcry with the Fallout Community Theme that DV organised, and haven't heard Excellentium mention anything like this happening for the Skyrim Community Theme either, nor any arguments stemming from accusations of favouritism. To me, many of the grievances aired appear to be nothing but sour grapes, as it's obvious that the the organisers took as much care and attention to create an event that appealed to as many users as possible, whilst remaining fair, impartial (and most importantly) open to all.
Post editing in and of itself, is not some kind of unholy cardinal sin, it's merely another tool available; and one that is relatively easy to spot when it results in images that are so heavily edited they barely resemble anything that is possible in-game. Would a tool such as the FreeFlyCam plug-in by KingEric be considered post-processing? What about ENB/Reshade presets? LUTs and image modifiers? The tools are non-vanilla. If you want to make a valid point, define your terms. Where exactly is the cut-off point? Do weather/climate mods count, seeing as they can radically change the look of the game?
I've seen this same tired argument pop up over the years in numerous creative endeavors (outside of screenarching/modding) and it results in nothing productive, not when the internal logic used by those making the accusations hinges on inclusivity by excluding certain things that are percieved to give an unfair advantage. How exactly does that work?
It is saddening to see this event being dragged down & marred by irrelevant discussions that add nothing, except as attempts to tear down others who create things that you cannot due to your own inexperience/lack of knowledge. I cannot fathom any other reason for certain individuals to continue to cast shade in the comments here.
Although I was (and still am) quite sceptical to turn the amazing events into a "contest" in which prizes can be won and contributions judged, I must say reading the reasoning between the choices is in my opinion a great idea.
Thanks everyone for contributing and sharing so many wonderful works.
I'm not an artist but I am a modder (still feel that I'm an amateur but hey it counts). I enjoy the screenshot contests that have specific detailed rules on what is and is not permitted.
I feel that a screenshot contest should be based on in-game screenshots and nothing else. No mods, no post-processing via Photoshop/GIMP, no Blender manipulation, none of it. Just the game and your own raw skills as a photographer (and a gamer) to get the shot you want the way you want.
But that's just me. The others on this site have spoken on how they want things; so be it. If we ever get an actual 'screenshots without the fluff' style of contest for more than just certain very-specific games then I'll be happy to participate. For those who won the gift cards, enjoy em.
Ooh, my dodgy custom pose made it to the 15 favorites? I'm honored.
I think I spent like 30 minutes moving Rikke's hand in Blender to try and get it to look somewhat natural. At least Tullius was good enough to assume that pose on his own \o/
Some great scenes from everyone, including many of those not featured above - I count something like 90 participants so picking only 15 must have been challenging. Didn't expect the commentary but it's a great idea!
Looking forward to whatever the next event will be about. Getting some direction like this certainly helps in terms of creativity.
Oh. Next "screenshot" contest can I just render it in DAZ with skyrim billboards and a ton of post process? Remind me again how this contest was to be "inclusive" to the average user. Lovely image.. but far beyond what most are capable of doing.. or affording.
I don't know about the others, but I haven't photoshopped my image(s), not because I wouldn't want to, but because I don't really know much about Photoshop.
I made a custom pose for Rikke which I learned to do from a tutorial on LL. I didn't know anything about Blender or custom posing before reading that guide, so if I could do it, being completely clueless, I think anyone could, -if- they want to put in that effort.
The only other thing outside the game that I did was stitching 3 images together in ICE to create the one you see above, which I learned from the "Panoramic Screenshot Technique" guide here on Nexus - which at the end of the day is just throwing the 3 images to the app and it does all the stitching and cropping for you. Although if I were more patient with camera positioning or changed my resolution I could achieve the same effect without this, it just felt more expedient to me to stitch them.
Other than that, it's just Snapdragon ENB - with mostly default settings, even.
All the programs I used are free, and I'm not exactly technically adept myself. I think what I did is theoretically well within reach of the average user and I would be more than happy to tell anyone how to do it if they were to ask, it's more a matter of whether they want to invest that kind of time in some silly screenshots, I find it fun, but most might not be interested in that kind of stuff.
You don’t have to explain yourself. You didn’t break any rules of the contest, you realized something, you liked the result and you wanted to share it with others. That’s the main thing, the rest is just frills. There will always be dissatisfaction, even in the face of perfection.
Oh. Next "screenshot" contest can I just render it in DAZ with skyrim billboards and a ton of post process? Remind me again how this contest was to be "inclusive" to the average user. Lovely image.. but far beyond what most are capable of doing.. or affording.
Most people who can’t afford it are people who are waiting for it to fall out of the sky rather than putting their hands in the dirt.
There are a lot of free software and a lot more tutorials. We must not be lazy to consult them.
Today, with the Internet and everything in it to make post-processing accessible to everyone, everywhere, even on a phone, the one who says, "I can’t afford it," is someone who says, "I don’t want to lift a finger, I want it to fall into my mouth".
None of the participants in this contest are responsible for the laziness of those who come here only to spit on the work done by hiding behind a false pretext. Everyone can afford to do post-treatment, but not everyone wants to do it. If they do not respect themselves, they should at least respect those who have understood that we are getting nothing without anything.
You know, almost a year ago, when I started, I knew absolutely nothing. Just the Print Screen key. I didn’t even dare post an image on the Nexus (or elsewhere) when I’ve been a member for almost three years.
Today I created my own Reshade, I’m thinking about creating my own ENB and I’m one of the 15 finalists, how do you think that happened ? By the operation of the Holy Spirit ? By invoking the Holy Patron of the Photoshopers or a genius in a bottle ? with sarcastic comments ? Complaints ? Negative reviews and pejorative comments ?
I learned by observing the work of others, reading tutorials, daring to participate in community events, listening to advice that wasn’t even meant for me, trying, over and over again (and also missing, repeatedly). I did this by being patient, determined, listening, and putting my pride and ego aside so that I could always move forward. Not overnight, but by taking the time to take the time.
It takes effort, effort that anyone can make ; effort that NO ONE can make for you.
EDV120 nailed it perfectly. Even the small amount of modding/blender/texture work I know I thought I could never do. YT vids, talking with modders, literally no money used at all, and a few forum tutorials later and I know more than I ever thought I would. The gap between nothing and the very little I know now, and the little I know and the amount these titans of modding know is the same process. Look it up, talk to people who already know it (without being rude), and then it's just practice and repetition. Anyone can do it, it's just time and ambition to do it.
P.S. Awesome screen btw Irstina, the pose looks great and the shot is very interesting, along with the whole set
Seems to be more "Conflict and Struggle" in the event comments than in some screenies...
A different opinion always sounds like an aggression for some folks down here. I hope some of them "artists" will never have to deal with the real "art world" a scary world with a lot of criticism, good and bad, with many different opinions, often far from theirs... I know, young kids usually don't accept criticism...
When everybody think the same way isn't it called a hive mind ? Boring. When only one opinion is tolerated isn't it called totalitarianism ? Frightening.
Maybe you should make an exhibit instead of a contest. Nothing to win, never!, no ranking nor "best 3", only sharing. When artists wait for a prize, art dies and so comes the time of financials, billionaires and Jeff Koons.
Maybe you should work with other gamers sites to "publish" screenshots exhibitions in the future, in more than one place. It will feed ego for sure. Some people need that. Fine.
Things can't work when you put "art" and "competition" at the same place. Art prizes are bull...t. You will only flatter egos. But it will not make this hobby grow as an art. It's like ice and fire, (Hearth Wind & Fire you say? cool) tea and coffee, Tom & Jerry, my ex-wife and me, "It just don't work"
I'm truly surprised to see so many people who call themselves "artists" involved in a kind of "art contest". And don't tell me "It's not a contest it's an Event" come on, there's a ranking, a "jury selection"! Ranking art is just a matter of profit balance, not a matter of art itself. How one can say "this one deserve the first place and not this one". What is the rating chart please ? Can you rate a feeling, an emotion? Oh, is there a kind of "Glasgow emotional scale" to rate art ? So Guernica deserves a 10 and Koons balloon dog deserves nothing; both are artists. Who is the best Dali or Picasso ? Or it is only a matter of skills and techniques mastery?
So maybe you should say it's not for newcomers, only for "officially recognized and praised talented screenarcher" (still don't know what it is...) Screen-technicians I would say. (best to be in the jury friends list? okay fair enough, that's life)
But it is only my opinion, I will never ask anyone to agree with me and maybe I deserve tar and feathers for that... again. And maybe this post will be deleted...
Would be glad to have the opinion of people who can flight above the clouds aka the organizers of the event.
And I've even shaved my body hair for the next "tar and feathers" event. And like always, people will read and understand the opposite of what I'm saying ;-)
I can not speak for the art world, but in academia you can count on your best friends ripping you to shreds. If they don't do that, then they are not your friends because they are beating the folks that don't like you to the punch. Your friend criticize nicely, your enemies do it viciously. What needs to be said, is that valid criticism comments on the work and not the person. And good criticism bears in mind that you are dealing with another human being that deserves the same dignity as you feel you need. Great criticism is an art form and few achieve it because it addresses the work in a way that improves it and it leaves the individual validated. It is very easy to forget that the person you are dealing with here actually is a person. This is such an impersonal means of communicating on the internet that we can treat people as something much less than human and make them just an object to be dealt with.
Nicely said. So? I don't really catch the meaning of your post regarding the subject of mine. But I prolly missed something and you're totally on the right side... English is not my language.
So to be clear, I mainly say I was disappointed to see the word "art" with the word "contest" and surprised to see so few "artists" not disappointed like me. I wasn't talking about persons but about behaviors ( sorry Faculty of Psychologies remnants, my bad )
So even if what you say is true and very interesting, it as nothing to do with the subject of my post once more. Shouldn't you try to talk about things I point in my post?
edited part, Now, considering you're talking about what I said about the fact that critics are not easily accepted here on Nexus, I got you. I mean I got your idea.
When I become Princess of Terra I will abolish all forms of click "likes" Also twitter.
The world is conversationally crippled, communication is only what is allowed, and the angry mob has hedge trimmers and electric torches to enforce the collective and revenge the pains of the triggered.
I come from an extended family of lifer infantry Non-Coms and WOs. Define "harsh critique" for me.. ok? I think even the most benign construction site "critique" would leave some rocking in a catatonic state.
And yet.. retail art "critique" would give both of them a run for the money for savagely blunt teardowns. Keep your heart in your chest and not on your sleeve.
I don't know, surely I didn't used the right tone. I should avoid irony and sarcasm, it's not for everyone. But thanks. I did the same as you a few years ago for more or less the same reason, deleting +/- 2000 screenshots. But I'm back and nothing have changed. I ask too much to mankind (irony) they are not ready (sarcasm)
Oh, you used the right tone, alright. And just because not everyone can understand irony and sarcasm doesn't mean you shouldn't use it. They are beautiful rhetorical tools when done well after all. And you did. I'm still laughing at some of the things you described. If someone isn't wired so that they can understand the concept it is, it is not our fault or anyone's.
Really enjoyed looking through the sets of everybody's contributions. Some awesome work on everyone's behalf, I would not have liked to pick the winners lol!!! that would have been tough. Looking forward to the next event.
As someone who primarily uses this site to share and download mods, I had no idea there was such a vibrant "other" community right under my nose lol. Beautiful shots everyone, I enjoyed browsing through.
Wow! I did not expect to make the final 15, thank you so much for the honor.
Congratulations to the other finalists, prize winners and everyone else who contributed: it was a lot of fun to see so many people from across the Nexus come together for a single large event.
Since I know not everyone wants to read about it, I've hidden my own thoughts about image post-processing. Click the spoiler button to read my ramblings.
Short version: I'm all for it.
Spoiler:
Show
Ever since the Nexus screenshot Community Event was announced it was just as quickly criticized for allowing the use of post-processing of images (aka Photoshopped). The criticism, and the very nature of this being a some-what competitive event, led me to try my hand more so at post-processing my own images to create better images. Now that the event is over, and the specter of post-process criticism is rearing its head again, I’ll voice my own opinion on the ‘controversy’.
Please note, this isn’t an essay based solely on the comments of a few individuals. I’ve read discussions in image threads, the Nexus, and on Reddit. This is a collection of my thoughts to the generalized ideas that “Post-Processing shouldn’t be allowed in competitive events”, “Post-Processing is cheating”, “Post-Processing isn’t as worthy as non-processed images”.
1) It’s Art
At the end of the day we’re not marketing professionals beholden to some truth-in-advertising laws wherein we are legally and ethically obliged to present an accurate representation of the games we play. Our games are modded to make them visually far more appealing than they naturally are. Most of us are using external tools like ENBs to further enhance the visual aesthetic, even when those same tools would normally render the game unplayable due to frame rate drop.
My point here is: our images have already been altered past the point of recognition from the vanilla game, post-processing is just another tool on top of everything else to get closer to the idea the creator had when taking the screenshot.
To say that post-processing is ‘cheating’ or somehow unworthy of being included is akin to saying a painter is not allowed to paint over a mistake, or add an additional element later in their creation. It’s to say that an illustrator isn’t allowed to pick up an eraser and remove a mistake. Or perhaps for a more apt comparison, it’s to say that a photographer cannot digitally alter their photograph because that somehow (?) is a violation of artistic ethics and the photograph is no longer a ‘photograph’ but something else, despite its origins being a photograph.
2) It’s a Disservice to Screen Shot Skills â Just as it takes time, skill and dedication to do post-processing well, so too does it take to catch a great screen shot. These images began as great screen shots, despite how much or no post-processing was used in their creation. To put such emphasis on post-processing is to say that those other skills don’t matter: how many times have I seen the quip “The best photoshopper wins”? It completely ignores the hours of hard work that went into setting up the screen shots in the first place.
3) Post-Processing Isn’t Just for Professionals
Much of the talk around post-processing has also put a focus on how it’s akin to cheating and it’ll discourage others from contributing. How? Why? When I see a great image I ask myself how did the creator do that? How can I do that? How can I take what I see here and apply it to my own creations to make them better?
And then of course there’s the criticism that it isn’t fair to use post-processing software because not everyone has access to those tools; which is a falsehood so bold it might as well be called a lie.
While Adobe Photoshop is commercial software that one must purchase to use, there are plenty of other free tools all of which fall under the category of post-processing software. After all, ‘post-processing’ just means that: you made changes after the initial screen shot. Want to crop your photo? Want to add in those common black bars to the top and bottom? Want to change the color overlay? Want to stitch some images together to make a collage? These are not excessive demands, and are done in other digital art forms including photography, so why not in screen shots?
Just to name a few: Windows Paint, Windows Photos, GIMP and IrfanView are all post-processing software, and they’re all free. My personal preference is GIMP: it provides a treasure trove of tools to use and is considered to be equally powerful to Adobe Photoshop. There’s ample tutorials online to learn how to use more advanced post-processing tools. Any one, veteran or new comer, can use these tools and if they have the desire, learn advanced functions and practice to become better.
4) It Levels the Field
For all the talk given about how an adept photoeditor could ‘cheat’, no one seems to acknowledge the reverse: an adept mod user (or author) can use their expertise to create images unobtainable by most; whether through knowledge of obscure little known mods, expertise in combining mods, or creating their own to give themselves an advantage unavailable to anyone else.
Additionally, where is the criticism of users who have powerful PCs that can run heavily modded games with hungry ENBs without losing a drop of sweat? Do they not have an advantage, being that they can render more objects on screen, in better detail, than others?
And yet if someone uses Windows Paint to crop an image this is somehow beneath the art form? It’s cheating? If I brighten up a character’s eyes in GIMP it’s cheating, however, using my own mod that I created and made public that can accomplish the same goal, is okay? That’s great for the few hundred people who play Skyrim SE and downloaded my mod. To everyone else, we had an advantage that went unknown, that as far as I know, they could not have replicated save for creating their own mod.
If I change the color overlay in Photoshop, that’s cheating, but using custom LUTs in combination with an ENB that allows for unparalleled control of the image is okay?
Closing Thoughts
Post-Processing is the digital equivalent to turpentine or erasers for painters and illustrators. It lets us cover up mistakes, fix errors, and create better work. Not every work will need it, not every creator will want to use it. That’s fine. But to say that a specific tool is forbidden or else your screen shot is now “not a screen shot but digital art” fails to recognize the very fact that a screen shot is digital art. I believe there is a place for un-altered, raw, screen shots. But that is a specific niche of the much larger art form of digital art.
Going Forward
I immensely enjoyed this event: it brought screen archers together across the Nexus to celebrate the art form and support one another and was a large venue for us to showcase our work. I would have participated whether there was the temptation of a monetary award, or not. This was an event for fun, and I hope the staff will support and host future events like this.
On the note of post-processing software, my opinion should be pretty clear: allow it. You don’t need post-processing software to create a great image, but you do need a great screen shot.
And to finish this diatribe off I’ll present my case in point…
My own image, which I am honored and excited made it into the final 15, is a raw, un-altered screen shot. It is a direct representation of what was on my monitor screen at the time of capture. I used many, many mods in the creation of it, some from sites other than the Nexus. I used a very powerful, customizable ENB. Some mods are obvious (clothing, poses, textures, hair, etc.), others you wouldn’t know are there unless I named them.
To anyone afraid they’re unworthy to contribute unless they use post-processing: no, you’re not.
To anyone thinking they are cheating by using post-processing: no, you’re not.
To anyone thinking they have to use post-processing to be ‘competitive’: no, you don’t.
To anyone curious how this, or that was done: just ask. Screen Archery is an art form and we all benefit when we share our knowledge and experience. And we’re mostly a good bunch of people more than happy to talk about ourselves and how awesome we are.
You know, I'd been planning to write a nice fat essay post on how and why one might want to 'shop their images... and now I don't know if I need to do it any more. Very thorough treatment of the subject here. I hope all manner of folks, pro-, anti-, or agnosti-'shop take the time to dig your words.
81 comments
Comments locked
A moderator has closed this comment topic for the time beingUnfortunately, I kept looking at this event thingy and seemed to feel very uncomfortable and anxious. I obviously wanted to join in but I have always looked at the images and how they are rated / voted / judged / call it what you will (the very thing that this screenshot / image "event" involves - being judged and winners selected over others), anyway I've always looked at how images are rated and it's mostly boobs n ass that get endorsements and then ego boosts and I dunno.. I just get jaded.
Anyway, back on-topic.. being as self imposed jaded as I seem to be, I instantly felt hesitant to 'enter'? this event thingy. I still think it's great and can be fun and all, but I guess I must need more encouragement hehe I dunno <_<
I think my conflict (oops sorry) lies in the title; "Screenshot".
Therein lies the dilemma. Can you edit the screenshot? If the screenshots are being judged and prizes given out, how does the poor guy who can't afford photoshop or happens to be dyslexic and struggles with tiny words on a screen, possibly compete (yes you are unnavoidably in competition here) with those who have super duper photo shop and all that stuff?
<hides under a table>
You can be assured a lot feel as you do, OP.
Producing copypasta clickbait for like harvesting is a common theme in most digital medium online galleries. The render "communities" are no better, but they do put on tiered contests with much tighter rules for new users generally.
Apparently the consensus here was "carte blanche". While a person can create very nice screens using simple console commands and a basic knowledge of composition and light, unfortunately the usual new user reaction to an established community is a perception that they "need" every bell and whistle. (a common problem in all competition). There is no encouragement or venue here for a new user to establish basic skills with the basic tools.
A good non pretentious basic guide to screenshots. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3PW3LanlPE
Also do a search for GIMP, a free imaging program that is more than you need to edit screenshots.
Second, how you want to express your creativity or vision is up to you. Don't got tie down by invisible rules or naysayers.
Third, look around Flickr Skyrim groups for ideas of how other people do their shots. Obviously NSFW warning, not all contents are high quality. Nexus gallery? Eh.... if they can do better job of filtering things & make a more attractive UI...
Generally I don't wanna call what I do "screenshots", I just call it "shots" - not only it's more appropriate, also it's easier to write (lel).
//--
As far as software goes, no you don't need photoshop. Microsoft have all you needs - Paint3D & Image Composite Editor (ICE - for panorama purpose). And there are plenty of free apps around on Windows Store. You really won't need anything more than cropping and minor brightness contrast adjustments. We're not painting or drawing things here, but post-processing.
//--
Remember, do this for fun.
I can clearly see the community is steering the whole idea into a completely wrong turn. Is winning really that important?
V1K1N9: Don't sweat the rating game if that's not your bag. Plenty of folks around here don't give a fig about endorsement counts. As far as the contest elements of this event, they were conceived more as incentive to newcomers (some folks really enjoy the competitive element, and some folks will be more motivated to participate in a community event if there's a chance of winning a prize) than as any sort of holy writ on our vaunted opinion of what makes a worthwhile screen-shot. If you're curious about why we chose the images we did, check out the commentary behind the spoiler tags. If you're looking for a no-stakes community theme, might I direct your attention to my and Excellentium's Community Theme events in Fallout and Skyrim, respectively? All are welcome, no post-processing necessary (and no post-processors hassled either).
They are composed, edited, tweaked, altered, and otherwise significantly and materially different from the originals. Each and every single 'composition' here falls under that category.
A 'screenshot' is just that. You hit Print Screen (or equivalent) on the keyboard and save a copy to your local hard drive then upload that picture. No post-processing or other alterations. That's what a screenshot is.
I guess I'll repeat myself: When Nexus wants to do actual screenshot contests instead of 'composition' contests then I'll gladly participate. It will open up such activities to a much wider audience when the barrier to entry is far lower.
EDIT: Using in-game photo tools like the ones in BDO and other games is ok. I'm referring to external/3rd party tools that people may not have the training/time/inclination to use. People seem to forget that Photoshop/GIMP/Blender require a specific skill set.
At what point after a player has added complete location sets, clothing from other games etc etc does an image no longer even remotely resemble a "screenshot"
We already have images that do not contain a single identifiable Skyrim element.
The fatal flaw in your statement (and one that those who've been vocal enough to complain about it seem to not understand, or choose to conveniently ignore) is that most of the final selection (barring a few, who have been open and honest about it & never attempted to decieve anyone) in the event are not post-edited to any significant degree. They are actual in-game screenshots. It feels somewhat disingenuous to cry fowl & accuse some of having an unfair advantage; by doing so, you belittle & ridicule the skills that these individuals have built up over numerous years & potentially thousands of hours of honing their craft.
This event was meant to be a celebration of the skills that many here at Nexus possess (and have developed over years of practice) when it comes to screenarchery, showing just how amazing you can make these games look if you have the relevant skills/experience. At the same time, this does not destroy any possibility for relative newcomers to showcase an amazing screenshot that they took.
The event was open to all, regardless of ability or experience, and therefore was clearly as inclusive as it could possibly be- if anyone felt like they were unable to enter (because in their own opinion/belief, they lacked the skills) that belief stemmed from them, not the organizers, nor the 'rules' or anything else. In this hypothetical scenario that some complaining have posited, it should be obvious that the individual is responsible for their decision whether to participate or not.
With that said, it bears remembering that one of the three 'selections' was awarded to a randomly selected entry from all the entries recieved.
Note that at no point did the organizers refer to this as some kind of 'competion', yet the belief that it was seems to have stemmed from the fact that 'prizes' were awarded - even though it should be obvious that a Nexus-hosted event of this nature would include awards of some sort, as an added incentive to encourage participation from those users who likely have never contributed to the (non-Nexus-affiliated) Community Themes. Never saw this kind of outcry with the Fallout Community Theme that DV organised, and haven't heard Excellentium mention anything like this happening for the Skyrim Community Theme either, nor any arguments stemming from accusations of favouritism. To me, many of the grievances aired appear to be nothing but sour grapes, as it's obvious that the the organisers took as much care and attention to create an event that appealed to as many users as possible, whilst remaining fair, impartial (and most importantly) open to all.
Post editing in and of itself, is not some kind of unholy cardinal sin, it's merely another tool available; and one that is relatively easy to spot when it results in images that are so heavily edited they barely resemble anything that is possible in-game. Would a tool such as the FreeFlyCam plug-in by KingEric be considered post-processing? What about ENB/Reshade presets? LUTs and image modifiers? The tools are non-vanilla. If you want to make a valid point, define your terms. Where exactly is the cut-off point? Do weather/climate mods count, seeing as they can radically change the look of the game?
I've seen this same tired argument pop up over the years in numerous creative endeavors (outside of screenarching/modding) and it results in nothing productive, not when the internal logic used by those making the accusations hinges on inclusivity by excluding certain things that are percieved to give an unfair advantage. How exactly does that work?
It is saddening to see this event being dragged down & marred by irrelevant discussions that add nothing, except as attempts to tear down others who create things that you cannot due to your own inexperience/lack of knowledge. I cannot fathom any other reason for certain individuals to continue to cast shade in the comments here.
Thanks everyone for contributing and sharing so many wonderful works.
Upvoted
I enjoy the screenshot contests that have specific detailed rules on what is and is not permitted.
I feel that a screenshot contest should be based on in-game screenshots and nothing else. No mods, no post-processing via Photoshop/GIMP, no Blender manipulation, none of it. Just the game and your own raw skills as a photographer (and a gamer) to get the shot you want the way you want.
But that's just me. The others on this site have spoken on how they want things; so be it.
If we ever get an actual 'screenshots without the fluff' style of contest for more than just certain very-specific games then I'll be happy to participate. For those who won the gift cards, enjoy em.
I think I spent like 30 minutes moving Rikke's hand in Blender to try and get it to look somewhat natural. At least Tullius was good enough to assume that pose on his own \o/
Some great scenes from everyone, including many of those not featured above - I count something like 90 participants so picking only 15 must have been challenging. Didn't expect the commentary but it's a great idea!
Looking forward to whatever the next event will be about. Getting some direction like this certainly helps in terms of creativity.
I think it is impressive that you edited the pose yourself just to get the shot. Overall, I was very intrigued by your Civil War set!
Remind me again how this contest was to be "inclusive" to the average user.
Lovely image.. but far beyond what most are capable of doing.. or affording.
I made a custom pose for Rikke which I learned to do from a tutorial on LL. I didn't know anything about Blender or custom posing before reading that guide, so if I could do it, being completely clueless, I think anyone could, -if- they want to put in that effort.
The only other thing outside the game that I did was stitching 3 images together in ICE to create the one you see above, which I learned from the "Panoramic Screenshot Technique" guide here on Nexus - which at the end of the day is just throwing the 3 images to the app and it does all the stitching and cropping for you. Although if I were more patient with camera positioning or changed my resolution I could achieve the same effect without this, it just felt more expedient to me to stitch them.
Other than that, it's just Snapdragon ENB - with mostly default settings, even.
All the programs I used are free, and I'm not exactly technically adept myself. I think what I did is theoretically well within reach of the average user and I would be more than happy to tell anyone how to do it if they were to ask, it's more a matter of whether they want to invest that kind of time in some silly screenshots, I find it fun, but most might not be interested in that kind of stuff.
You don’t have to explain yourself. You didn’t break any rules of the contest, you realized something, you liked the result and you wanted to share it with others. That’s the main thing, the rest is just frills. There will always be dissatisfaction, even in the face of perfection.
Most people who can’t afford it are people who are waiting for it to fall out of the sky rather than putting their hands in the dirt.
There are a lot of free software and a lot more tutorials. We must not be lazy to consult them.
Today, with the Internet and everything in it to make post-processing accessible to everyone, everywhere, even on a phone, the one who says, "I can’t afford it," is someone who says, "I don’t want to lift a finger, I want it to fall into my mouth".
None of the participants in this contest are responsible for the laziness of those who come here only to spit on the work done by hiding behind a false pretext. Everyone can afford to do post-treatment, but not everyone wants to do it. If they do not respect themselves, they should at least respect those who have understood that we are getting nothing without anything.
You know, almost a year ago, when I started, I knew absolutely nothing. Just the Print Screen key. I didn’t even dare post an image on the Nexus (or elsewhere) when I’ve been a member for almost three years.
Today I created my own Reshade, I’m thinking about creating my own ENB and I’m one of the 15 finalists, how do you think that happened ? By the operation of the Holy Spirit ? By invoking the Holy Patron of the Photoshopers or a genius in a bottle ? with sarcastic comments ? Complaints ? Negative reviews and pejorative comments ?
I learned by observing the work of others, reading tutorials, daring to participate in community events, listening to advice that wasn’t even meant for me, trying, over and over again (and also missing, repeatedly). I did this by being patient, determined, listening, and putting my pride and ego aside so that I could always move forward. Not overnight, but by taking the time to take the time.
It takes effort, effort that anyone can make ; effort that NO ONE can make for you.
P.S. Awesome screen btw Irstina, the pose looks great and the shot is very interesting, along with the whole set
Seems to be more
"Conflict and Struggle"
in the event comments
than in some screenies...
A different opinion always sounds like an aggression for some folks down here.
I hope some of them "artists" will never have to deal with the real "art world"
a scary world with a lot of criticism, good and bad, with many different opinions, often far from theirs...
I know, young kids usually don't accept criticism...
When everybody think the same way isn't it called a hive mind ? Boring.
When only one opinion is tolerated isn't it called totalitarianism ? Frightening.
Maybe you should make an exhibit instead of a contest.
Nothing to win, never!, no ranking nor "best 3", only sharing.
When artists wait for a prize, art dies and so comes the time of financials, billionaires and Jeff Koons.
Maybe you should work with other gamers sites to "publish" screenshots exhibitions in the future, in more than one place.
It will feed ego for sure. Some people need that. Fine.
Things can't work when you put "art" and "competition" at the same place.
Art prizes are bull...t.
You will only flatter egos. But it will not make this hobby grow as an art.
It's like ice and fire,
(Hearth Wind & Fire you say? cool)
tea and coffee,
Tom & Jerry,
my ex-wife and me,
"It just don't work"
I'm truly surprised to see so many people who call themselves "artists" involved in a kind of "art contest".
And don't tell me "It's not a contest it's an Event" come on, there's a ranking, a "jury selection"!
Ranking art is just a matter of profit balance, not a matter of art itself.
How one can say "this one deserve the first place and not this one".
What is the rating chart please ? Can you rate a feeling, an emotion?
Oh, is there a kind of "Glasgow emotional scale" to rate art ?
So Guernica deserves a 10 and Koons balloon dog deserves nothing; both are artists.
Who is the best Dali or Picasso ?
Or it is only a matter of skills and techniques mastery?
So maybe you should say it's not for newcomers,
only for "officially recognized and praised talented screenarcher" (still don't know what it is...)
Screen-technicians I would say.
(best to be in the jury friends list? okay fair enough, that's life)
But it is only my opinion,
I will never ask anyone to agree with me
and maybe I deserve tar and feathers for that... again.
And maybe this post will be deleted...
Would be glad to have the opinion of people who can flight above the clouds aka the organizers of the event.
Thanks for struggling.
And like always, people will read and understand the opposite of what I'm saying ;-)
So?
I don't really catch the meaning of your post regarding the subject of mine.
But I prolly missed something and you're totally on the right side... English is not my language.
So to be clear, I mainly say I was disappointed to see the word "art" with the word "contest" and surprised to see so few "artists" not disappointed like me.
I wasn't talking about persons but about behaviors ( sorry Faculty of Psychologies remnants, my bad )
So even if what you say is true and very interesting, it as nothing to do with the subject of my post once more.
Shouldn't you try to talk about things I point in my post?
edited part,
Now, considering you're talking about what I said about the fact that critics are not easily accepted here on Nexus, I got you. I mean I got your idea.
Also twitter.
The world is conversationally crippled, communication is only what is allowed, and the angry mob has hedge trimmers and electric torches to enforce the collective and revenge the pains of the triggered.
I come from an extended family of lifer infantry Non-Coms and WOs. Define "harsh critique" for me.. ok? I think even the most benign construction site "critique" would leave some rocking in a catatonic state.
And yet.. retail art "critique" would give both of them a run for the money for savagely blunt teardowns. Keep your heart in your chest and not on your sleeve.
I've been informed by the Single Malt masters that fruity speyburn is a proper girly scotch.
Actually it's cheap, gives me my unwarranted Single Malt Creds, and is still rank enough where a bottle lasts me six months or more.
I should avoid irony and sarcasm, it's not for everyone.
But thanks. I did the same as you a few years ago for more or less the same reason, deleting +/- 2000 screenshots. But I'm back and nothing have changed.
I ask too much to mankind (irony) they are not ready (sarcasm)
If someone isn't wired so that they can understand the concept it is, it is not our fault or anyone's.
Some awesome work on everyone's behalf, I would not have liked to pick the winners lol!!! that would have been tough.
Looking forward to the next event.
wow...
you fly too high for me.
The OP found a new thing.. "right under my nose". Connect... the.... dots. I'll type slowly here... where would one find a new mustache?
Kaldaar was being clever. Not insulting.
You, however, were very purposefully insulting
This is why people post zero comments rather than take 30 mins to ponder whether someone out there will take the most innocuous comment as an insult.
Sorry OP. Your post is nice.
Obviously everything was only meant nicely.
Congratulations to the other finalists, prize winners and everyone else who contributed: it was a lot of fun to see so many people from across the Nexus come together for a single large event.
Since I know not everyone wants to read about it, I've hidden my own thoughts about image post-processing. Click the spoiler button to read my ramblings.
Short version: I'm all for it.
Ever since the Nexus screenshot Community Event was announced it was just as quickly criticized for allowing the use of post-processing of images (aka Photoshopped). The criticism, and the very nature of this being a some-what competitive event, led me to try my hand more so at post-processing my own images to create better images. Now that the event is over, and the specter of post-process criticism is rearing its head again, I’ll voice my own opinion on the ‘controversy’.
Please note, this isn’t an essay based solely on the comments of a few individuals. I’ve read discussions in image threads, the Nexus, and on Reddit. This is a collection of my thoughts to the generalized ideas that “Post-Processing shouldn’t be allowed in competitive events”, “Post-Processing is cheating”, “Post-Processing isn’t as worthy as non-processed images”.
1) It’s Art
At the end of the day we’re not marketing professionals beholden to some truth-in-advertising laws wherein we are legally and ethically obliged to present an accurate representation of the games we play. Our games are modded to make them visually far more appealing than they naturally are. Most of us are using external tools like ENBs to further enhance the visual aesthetic, even when those same tools would normally render the game unplayable due to frame rate drop.
My point here is: our images have already been altered past the point of recognition from the vanilla game, post-processing is just another tool on top of everything else to get closer to the idea the creator had when taking the screenshot.
To say that post-processing is ‘cheating’ or somehow unworthy of being included is akin to saying a painter is not allowed to paint over a mistake, or add an additional element later in their creation. It’s to say that an illustrator isn’t allowed to pick up an eraser and remove a mistake. Or perhaps for a more apt comparison, it’s to say that a photographer cannot digitally alter their photograph because that somehow (?) is a violation of artistic ethics and the photograph is no longer a ‘photograph’ but something else, despite its origins being a photograph.
2) It’s a Disservice to Screen Shot Skills
â
Just as it takes time, skill and dedication to do post-processing well, so too does it take to catch a great screen shot. These images began as great screen shots, despite how much or no post-processing was used in their creation. To put such emphasis on post-processing is to say that those other skills don’t matter: how many times have I seen the quip “The best photoshopper wins”? It completely ignores the hours of hard work that went into setting up the screen shots in the first place.
3) Post-Processing Isn’t Just for Professionals
Much of the talk around post-processing has also put a focus on how it’s akin to cheating and it’ll discourage others from contributing. How? Why? When I see a great image I ask myself how did the creator do that? How can I do that? How can I take what I see here and apply it to my own creations to make them better?
And then of course there’s the criticism that it isn’t fair to use post-processing software because not everyone has access to those tools; which is a falsehood so bold it might as well be called a lie.
While Adobe Photoshop is commercial software that one must purchase to use, there are plenty of other free tools all of which fall under the category of post-processing software. After all, ‘post-processing’ just means that: you made changes after the initial screen shot. Want to crop your photo? Want to add in those common black bars to the top and bottom? Want to change the color overlay? Want to stitch some images together to make a collage? These are not excessive demands, and are done in other digital art forms including photography, so why not in screen shots?
Just to name a few: Windows Paint, Windows Photos, GIMP and IrfanView are all post-processing software, and they’re all free. My personal preference is GIMP: it provides a treasure trove of tools to use and is considered to be equally powerful to Adobe Photoshop. There’s ample tutorials online to learn how to use more advanced post-processing tools. Any one, veteran or new comer, can use these tools and if they have the desire, learn advanced functions and practice to become better.
4) It Levels the Field
For all the talk given about how an adept photoeditor could ‘cheat’, no one seems to acknowledge the reverse: an adept mod user (or author) can use their expertise to create images unobtainable by most; whether through knowledge of obscure little known mods, expertise in combining mods, or creating their own to give themselves an advantage unavailable to anyone else.
Additionally, where is the criticism of users who have powerful PCs that can run heavily modded games with hungry ENBs without losing a drop of sweat? Do they not have an advantage, being that they can render more objects on screen, in better detail, than others?
And yet if someone uses Windows Paint to crop an image this is somehow beneath the art form? It’s cheating? If I brighten up a character’s eyes in GIMP it’s cheating, however, using my own mod that I created and made public that can accomplish the same goal, is okay? That’s great for the few hundred people who play Skyrim SE and downloaded my mod. To everyone else, we had an advantage that went unknown, that as far as I know, they could not have replicated save for creating their own mod.
If I change the color overlay in Photoshop, that’s cheating, but using custom LUTs in combination with an ENB that allows for unparalleled control of the image is okay?
Closing Thoughts
Post-Processing is the digital equivalent to turpentine or erasers for painters and illustrators. It lets us cover up mistakes, fix errors, and create better work. Not every work will need it, not every creator will want to use it. That’s fine. But to say that a specific tool is forbidden or else your screen shot is now “not a screen shot but digital art” fails to recognize the very fact that a screen shot is digital art. I believe there is a place for un-altered, raw, screen shots. But that is a specific niche of the much larger art form of digital art.
Going Forward
I immensely enjoyed this event: it brought screen archers together across the Nexus to celebrate the art form and support one another and was a large venue for us to showcase our work. I would have participated whether there was the temptation of a monetary award, or not. This was an event for fun, and I hope the staff will support and host future events like this.
On the note of post-processing software, my opinion should be pretty clear: allow it. You don’t need post-processing software to create a great image, but you do need a great screen shot.
And to finish this diatribe off I’ll present my case in point…
My own image, which I am honored and excited made it into the final 15, is a raw, un-altered screen shot. It is a direct representation of what was on my monitor screen at the time of capture. I used many, many mods in the creation of it, some from sites other than the Nexus. I used a very powerful, customizable ENB. Some mods are obvious (clothing, poses, textures, hair, etc.), others you wouldn’t know are there unless I named them.
To anyone afraid they’re unworthy to contribute unless they use post-processing: no, you’re not.
To anyone thinking they are cheating by using post-processing: no, you’re not.
To anyone thinking they have to use post-processing to be ‘competitive’: no, you don’t.
To anyone curious how this, or that was done: just ask. Screen Archery is an art form and we all benefit when we share our knowledge and experience. And we’re mostly a good bunch of people more than happy to talk about ourselves and how awesome we are.
https://www.nexusmods.com/fallout4/images/145629
I think that if you can, do it, this kind of contests are great to see things and getting inspired by other people
Keep on taking awesome screenshots and be creative, since this is what it's all about.