Need C&C for zoo pics

[firemedic0135]

Hey guys and gals
Went to the zoo today was partly cloudy sometimes sunny.Was primarily shooting with my 70-300 4.5-5.6 and no filters/shade.Well I got to work tonight and checked out my pics and to me they all look a little flat and washed out.I am not sure what is the problem so I am seeking your help and knowledge.By the way most shots were shot at the lowest AV for the zoom and kept shutter and iso auto.I know I should have a shade but I lost it long ago and not sure about filters.

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6.

 

[firemedic0135]

Seriously,no one has any ideas?

 

[BoblyBill]

#5 is by far the best... I like how the (whatever type of bird they are) are set off to the side... All the others have something distracting in them that take away from the focused object.

 

[Chicagophotoshop]

I love 1,2,3

maybe the first one you can focus more on the lion's head. but really, who doesnt love a lion pic? well done