I have recently been very impressed by the fact that good images result from a combination of opportunity and interest. This fine image is an example. As you develop a view of the world around you that shows you the possible, a sense of "seeing" , as opposed to casusal observation. When we see the most honored work, it is often a combination of serindipity and skill. Bill

These are the images that do well when operated on with photo software. Removing or bluring parts of the image can lose some distracting elements. Removing the daisy (s) in the first image would highlight the yellows. For the second you could clone more yellow flowers into the dark areas to push the purple blossom.

Looks very unposed, natural lghting, shadows not too deep. I like the Photoshop idea. The costumes alone beg for more pictures.

I would have used a higher angle and been a bit closer. The selective focus is right and color very deep. Get a larger patch of yellow flower to contrast with the deep green

Good candid shots. Color and composition are right there. #2 is keeper for family album or maybe a contest shot.

Doing "in-the-moment" work and then applying your own standards of what is good and bad is training the eye and makes you more aware of possible images in the future. First shot is a good candid, second shot is a keeper, print only the top of the third. The foreshortening does not do the subject justice.

"On the run". An image that is so normal, yet it really is good. The subjects are balanced, angle of the light is right and they are both observing the camera. Calendar material. I could look at it often and still like it. Bill

The "rules" are really only an emprical collection of ideas of what will please the eye (read preception) of a large group of people over a long time period. So if the image follows those rules it can hang on the wall for a long time and not cause many viewers to think of it as contrary to the common view. I guess if I worked with art directors or exhibited a lot and got more feedback I would care. Knowing the "rules" of composition helps me frame exposures and select images for printing. THAT being said. It has nothing to do with the impact, subject, emotion, artistic selection of elements or purpose of the final image. Breaking the "rules" can result in some fine work, If you know what "rule" is ignored and what it does for the image. Bill

Ok! Anyone in a costume is a showoff, not bad, just is. Ask them to pose and if you think it's great get a signed release for a 1$ bill. That is in addition to the candids that are fair game to publish because of the nature of the event. Use as little direct light (flash) as possible and if it is off camera better still. Costume character contrast in subjects is always interesting.

Opportunity! Just off the patio. Looked out the glass door and immediately set up the tripod and camera. The close flash approximates sunlight on a cloudy, dull, and yes cold day.

Depth of field is a function of f-stop. Stop down and slower shutter. (Or more light) Also try setting the focus on one and moving forward or back a few inches to hit the ends of the critical range. Bill

I guess growing up with a camera at the ready will make this little lady completely at ease having her picture taken. The result is you are going to get some great candids over time. And just think of the record you will have. START your CDROM file now.

You wil put No 2 in your purse and give copies to grandparents. No 4 you will both treasure for many, many years even when you picture grandchildren. The pose, color balance and high key are excellent. No. 1 , keep working the subject and idea. Just different enough to be show accepted. Bill

Good face structure, Symetery and color,This girl should be good for makeup or fashion ads.