The Graduate

This was shot at Camp Smith in Honolulu Hawaii for a graduate,

Please let me know what you think (i know some people don't like the dark border) Any coments will be used as a learning tool

I take it that the flag was an important part of the image. You should have gotten a little more separation from his head, however. If you took one step to the left, that probably would have done it. The bright sky tricked your camera into underexposing him. It looks like you used fill flash or a reflector from the highlights in his eyes, but it wasn't enough. His shirt is white, yes? You might straighten the tie next time.

Next time you have a similar shot you might consider a less static pose. You could have the man raise one or two fists, or cross his arms, and maybe get both shoulders in the frame.