CC New photos

[cmaag]

I posted some photos last week (for the first time) and the consensus was that my Pug is underexposed so his black muzzle isn't defined and that my animal shots (those are my only willing subjects for now - husband is camera shy) are not focused on the eyes. I worked on it this weeked and would love some feedback on technical and composition. Thanks (Note: I've just started learning how to use a DSLR and photography in general for about 4 weeks).

1.) Gatsby the Pug


2.) Jack and the Fender Amp


3.) Jack and the Red Chair


4.) Dudley (my neighbor's dog)

 

[photo guy]

I like 3 the best. #2 has too much light coming in the window.

 

[tirediron]

C&C per req: You've got some really great poses here, but they're like down by technical issues. #1 is definitely an improvement, but the exposure is still not quite there. The bright area in the background is playing havoc with your camera's meter; this is also what's happened in #2 where the bright window has caused a significant under-exposure of the cat.
#3 is closer, but loses because of the cropped paw. Also note that the white fur on the right leg is blown in some areas.

#4 is a great pose, but the cropped paw really hurts. As with people, avoid cropping limbs, and if you do need to do it, do it boldly and not at/near a joint. The other issue with all of the images is background. It's busy, cluttered and distracting. Very often the difference between a snapshot and an award-winning photograph is the way the background is dealt with. For help with the exposure issues, read of the excellent tutorials here for more on how your camera's meter works.

Just my $00.02 worth - your mileage may vary.

~John