I'll be honest and say they don't make me feel anything - well, most of them - but here are some thoughts regarding each photo that may function as some sort of "lesson" or take-home message, based on my own opinions from looking at these shots.
#1
The composition does not work for me. It's like a heavy-contrast snap of a chicken, with a totally irrelevant tree trunk in the left side of the frame. If this chicken is to made into a photograph, I would try to get a perspective that we do not usually see as standing humans. Get down on the chicken's level, move closer, and try to isolate some portion of the chicken. It looks like the chicken and the tree it stands on are made from the same piece of wood. Perhaps emphasizing the craftmanship or this interesting detail could make for a more interesting idea? I'm not sure what would work, but taking 5-10 minutes inspecting compositions before shooting might reveal something. Also, the lighting (flash used?) is quite harsh and unattractive, making it look like it was taken during the night. Natural light would work better here, I think.
#2
Many of the same thoughts as for #1. Lots of negative space that does not add anything to the image. The subject itself is dull, but if I try to look past that, then the subject could be emphasized better by moving closer, perhaps? Getting rid of that empty space. I like the curvy shape of the roof. Perhaps a dead-on angle with the brick background could work? That might be interesting, especially with the asymmetric hinges.
#3
This is the one image that makes me feel something. I can imaging an old couple that used to sit there. It could be in their favourite park, or perhaps their backyard, but we do not know. But now the chairs are empty, and it looks like no one has used them in quite some time, which makes the whole scene feel a bit sad. I like it.
#4
Same thoughts as for #s 1 and 2. Find an angle that removes unwanted clutter, such as the bamboo stick. I'm actually not sure what the subject is, here. The lantern? The tree trunk? The picture is too busy, I think.
#5
The first thing I notice is the top-down perspective. I think this image could benefit much from getting lower, and looking up on the plant. We're used to seeing plants from above, so this image is not interesting to me. Get down and move close. Wide angle. Alternatively, try to get the image dead-on from above, and filling the entire frame with the plants. Perhaps go black and white, emphasizing the shapes and contrast of the leaves. That might make for an interesting abstract.
The "eye" takes time to train, and is forever developing. Everyone takes dull images. When I "look for subjects" I become less critical, and try make dull things into something interesting. Restraint is a good thing, I think. Try not to indulge every impulse to make a photograph, but instead slow down and really consider if it is worth making. Look for compositions and stories. That's why I like the picture of the chairs. There is a story in that photo, even though I am making it up as I look at the photo.
but with this she's been surprisingly good to work with. I'm hoping she maintains that interest.
