Comments Please

So, looks like this is where a lot of newbs start out! (And I'm one of 'em!)

I've just started photography, and am very interested in animal photos. I know these two are not the greatest, but again, I'm very new at this and would really appreciate any and ALL comments regarding the photos. Until just last weekend actually, I've only had my iPhoto as a photo program. I upgraded to Aperture and I a currently in the middle of the manual learning about the program.

I look forward to working with my photos and learning more about photography and taking great pictures. Please comment, again any and all comments, about these two photos.

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What makes these "snapshots" are your composure.
#1. Not a good frame. Either need the entire dog's body or a crop of the head. In this particular shot there is no "character" to the dog. IMHO it's just not conveying anything.
#2. Framing again is an issue. I do like the whiskers and long eyebrow hairs. But the door frame and the litter box in the background take to much away from the cat.

Misc...When shooting pets you need to follow pretty much the same rules as when shooting people. Focus on the eyes. IF nothing else you want the eyes to pop.
Of course pets are much harder to deal with for the fact they don't do exactly what you want them to when you want them to. Most good animal shots are captures of natural motion...or rare candids when they are just being themselves. Don't try to force a good picture from your pets, be patient and wait for the right chances.

First shot, meh. It's a snapshot. Not interesting enough.

I actually like the second shot. I think it's cool the way it's done. I don't know if it was intentional, but the cat looks to say .. "indoor life stinks ... let me out, plz thx.."

That said, I will agree with droberts on focusing on the eyes. Definitely needs focus where it's important.

Otherwise, good first attempt on the second one. Whiskers are great.

Nice pictures Julie! Let me know when you want to get together and we can go out and shoot things. We both have lots to learn still.

Thank you for your comments! I really love the advice!

Showsol2211 wrote in post #7014266
Nice pictures Julie! Let me know when you want to get together and we can go out and shoot things. We both have lots to learn still.

Yhelothar! Thank you! I think you may have seen those two before, but I still think they are my favorites out of my animal photos... as stated by droberts, animals are hard to photograph, but I love to take their pictures. You and I defiently need to get out and do some playing with our cameras!

agreed with the comments stated above.
Also try to think of composition and perspective. Like when shooting a child you want to get to their level, that holds true with animals too. Photos become more interesting when you shoot from a perspective that everyone doesnt see everyday.

A tip that has helped me is the Scott Kelby books. Very easy reads that gives great advice....

http://www.amazon.com …oks&qid=1231269​258&sr=8-3

Cute subjects to work with Expression on cat's face made me laugh