When You Answer a Question: Factual vs. Opinion

The nature of my responses often involves a balance between providing facts and sharing opinions. While some questions necessitate a straightforward, objective response, others benefit from a more nuanced approach, offering both context and perspective. This balance is especially evident in my work on photography-related questions on platforms such as Quora.

Providing Facts vs. Sharing Opinions

When answering a question, determining whether to provide facts or opinions— or even a combination of both—depends largely on the nature of the question itself. If a question requires an elaborate explanation, I will undoubtedly provide the necessary context, analysis, and facts. Conversely, if the question is simpler and more straightforward, I will aim to answer as concisely and factually as possible.

It's worth noting that in many cases, providing both facts and opinions can be most helpful. For instance, in photography, where subjective interpretations often play a significant role, combining factual information with personal insights can offer a rich, well-rounded answer.

A Factual Approach in Photography

In my role as a photography expert, I often answer questions from the little-known Quora Photography Department, third floor, turn right, at the end of the hall. Here, I am a committed mirrorless user and have never even looked through a modern DSLR. My knowledge of DSLRs is rooted in my professional experience, which is now a quarter-century out of date.

As a mirrorless enthusiast, I often answer questions that mention DSLRs, but from the perspective of a mirrorless system. While DSLRs and mirrorless cameras share many similarities, the differences in their viewing systems (optical and electronic) can make comparisons complex. In terms of picture quality, given roughly equal sensors and lenses, the differences are minimal, making it difficult to discern between the two systems just by looking at a picture.

My approach to answering questions is as much factual as it is anecdotal. I share personal experiences and stories to humanize the subject and provide a more relatable answer. This balance between facts and opinions makes my responses more engaging and informative.

For example, when asked about mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras (MILCs), I often talk about the equipment and software I use and know intimately. I frequently reference the tagline, "Ask the man who owns one," as it encapsulates my approach to answering such questions. I relate my personal experiences and knowledge to provide helpful insights.

While I have few followers and not many upvotes on Quora, I take comfort in the fact that if my answers have helped any of you, that's all that matters. My dedication to this platform is driven by a desire to share my knowledge and experiences in a way that is both factual and engaging.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you're answering a question on Quora or any other platform, the key is to strike a balance between providing solid, verifiable information and offering personal perspectives and experiences. This balance can make your answers more informative, engaging, and relatable to your audience.