Dog Park - A noob's first outing in need of help

[nola.ron]

I am a COMPLETE beginner! I just got my Nikon D3000 and finally got outside with it this evening for the first time. The time was around 4pm and the sun was rapidly going down... I really wish I would have had more time. The boxer is my dog and I have to say that I had a complete BLAST taking these pictures! I was interested in this before but wow I had no idea how much fun this would be.

I am posting these images ONLY because I need tips on how I could have made them better, NOT because I think they are even remotely good.

Gear used: Nikon D3000 w/ Nikkor 55-200mm 1.4-5.6 kit lense
Modes: Shutter Priority (1/250 in most) and some experimentation with Sports mode

QUESTIONS:
A) How can I keep my dog or moving target more focused in fast moving shots like below? My focus mode was set to 3D tracking on most all of these.
B) Do I have the general idea correct on composition?
C) Is my PP too much? I am mainly using smart sharpen in PS CS6 and tone adjustments in Light Room.


1.




2.




3. There are stray elements I wish weren't there - my camera bag and the coffee cups, but how is composition?




4.




5.




6.




7. I know the composition isn't quite right here, but what else could have been better?

 

[gw2424]

To fix blur:

I would underexpose the image in camera and then fix it in post (-2/3 or so). You could also bump your ISO.

#3:

Composition is alright...It just isn't an interesting image; there isn't much to see unless you are closer in.

#7:

Once again you should be closer in; you may be able to go vertical as well.


Good Luck, you are off to a great start!

Gabe