My first set of photos | YOUR THEMES | Photo Forum

Hello Allen.  First, let me offer my welcome to the forum.  We love having new members who are actually willing to post their work.
You ask for criticism. In my opinion your posting includes some excellent photographs, especially if you have not much experience.  Of course, as in all things, there is always room for improvement.

I’ve tried to determine your camera, lens, and settings for these images, but the information is not available in the file property details. You must have chosen to keep it private, probably in post.  It is difficult to give suggestions without knowing what the settings for each photo are.

In the first photo, there is considerable detail lost in the shadows.  I don’t know if you are doing any post processing, but this is easily rectified in Lightroom, Photoshop, or Photoshop Elements.  I use both Lightroom and Photoshop Elements.  I’ve really found no need for the considerably more expensive Photoshop.

I like the second shot.  The overall tone gives a great feeling of end of day in the woods (or is it morning?).  Mosquitoes will soon be attacking.

I really like the composition in your third shot (the ladybug).  The selected color effect works well.  It’s something I’ve not really liked, but in this case it’s quite appropriate.

In the third image I don’t really think the selective color effect is working.  Also there is a considerable amount of overexposed blown out portions of the image.  Are you “shooting for the highlights”?  Google it if you don’t know the term.

I think the fifth image is OK. Nothing special.  It needs a bit of sharpening and the sky is overdone.  You must have did some post with this one.

The bridge….. Well… It needs some lens correction.. Get Lightroom if you don’t have it.  Also, it’s so busy. I don’t know what to look at. The bridge… the road… the bright spot on the rocks… the town… it gives me a headache.  Simplify.

The last photo.. The bug on the leaf…. I love it.  Some would prefer the bug facing towards the center, but I like this better.

Again… I’t great to have you with us and we look forward to seeing more of your work.

allenslr said
My biggest problem I have found is focus especially keeping the camera steady but I hope that will just come in time with practice.

Camera shake is a common problem for most photographers and results in fuzzy photographs.
Here is an informative video on how to avoid it.

Allen
Looks like you’re well on your way to being a great photographer! I really enjoy night photography and you’ve
posted some really nice ones.
Great shots!
Dale.