Need help with, well everything...

DaffodilHill · May 18, 2013

I was trying to get the baby's feet in focus while blurring him out, but something just feels wrong about it??? I think it is the composition, among other things. Help please!

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cgipson1 · May 18, 2013

[PhotoME]
PhotoME version: 0.79R17 (Build 856)

[Overview]
URL: http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/...4311-need-help-well-everything-dsc_0126bw.jpg
File type: JPEG
File size: 636.8 KB
Creation date: 5/18/2013 11:14
Last modification: 5/18/2013 19:18
Make: NIKON CORPORATION (Nikon | Home)
Camera: NIKON D3000
Software: Adobe Photoshop CS6 (Windows)
Dimension: 1975 x 2765 px (5.5 MP)
Focal length: 22 mm (equiv. 33 mm)
Aperture: F3.8
Exposure time: 1/200"
ISO speed rating: 640/29°
Program: Shutter priority
Metering Mode: Center-weighted average
White Balance: Manual
Flash: Flash fired, compulsory flash mode, return light detected

#1 22mm?? Wide angle lenses have a lot of inherent DOF... even at 3.8, DOF is still not going to allow much blur. Try a 50mm at 1.8 or 2.8

#2 Wide angles cause perspective distortion... and 22mm would cause a LOT! That is why it looks so freaky! Perspective Distortion Effects Planned or Accidental

#3 Why ISO 640 when using flash? ISO 100 would be much better... and with flash, you don't need the higher ISO.. especially on what looks like a well lit day.

tirediron · May 18, 2013

To expand on what Charlie's posted above, you need to understand some basic concepts which relate to Depth of Field (DoF). The shorter the focal length, the more DoF the image will have. The greater the distance between camera and subject, the more DoF the image will have and the smaller the aperture (larger 'f' #) the more DoF the image will have. Try plugging different numbers into this on-line DoF calculator to get an idea of the results (You can also get these for all popular smart 'phones). This 'site has some outstanding general tutorials which may help as well.