my first Engagement party pics

This is my first engagement party shoot.. I was kinda nervous on that day as i wasn't used to people looking at me with my camera. To make it worst i didn't know anyone there except for my wife.

The shots and photoshop'ng are rushed but i needed this to be up for them to see. Any advise is welcome.

I used my old camera: 400D, EF-S 17-85 IS, 430EX

http://maryannandrew.r​obdi.com/

I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but they are too snap shot like and too flat

I think that it looked like a rather relaxed and fun time for everyone. I dont think by the looks of the couple and family that they werent really after anything serious and super formal. So In my opinion you did fine with shooting candids. I think that there were some that had too harsh of lighting and others that were a little OOF, BUT there were also a few that were definate keepers and if the couple is happy with your results, then I would say you did what they asked you to.

Just take what went well and expand on it, and what didnt work for you try to remember not to repeat it. I talked a pro photog into helping me and giving me side classes (which I am really excited about), and he told me to always remember lighting and composition, and that I dont need 50K in camera equipment to take a wonderful picture as long as I understand the "basics" and more importantly.....apply them.

For me and not meant negatively but they look like snapshots taken with a good camera. Nothing very creative. etc. Not much real natural interaction and non posed "smile for the camera shots"