Short Zoo Outing - First Photos - C&C Please!

[Zydeco]

Well, I decided to break in the new Canon T2i and 55-250mm IS lens by going to the zoo! Unfortunately, it was already two hours from closing by the time I was able to go. Anyway, I managed to get shots of a few animals, and the ones below are the "highlights" of the afternoon.

It may not be the easiest (or wisest) choice, but all of these were pretty much taken in Full Manual Mode. Perhaps it would be better to work in different modes, working my way up to Full Manual.. What do you guys think? xP

Feel free to edit these, by the way, 'cause I'm pretty new when it comes to fixing images up as well.

#1

#2

#3 (It was hiding up in the corner on a shady upper rock, had to flash.. Any techniques for fixing that pesky eye glare?)

#4

 

[Zydeco]

Tough crowd. Bump!

 

[photo guy]

#1 is not centered, #3 has the ear partially chopped, #2 is bright due to the reflection from the water but is my favorite of the 4

 

[dxqcanada1]

One of the hardest things about Zoo photography is getting best background. In #4 you were able to get some color in the background that is out of focus ... so that works with the colors of the bird.

Be aware of the sun ... where it is at what time of day and year. Direct sunlight is not always the best thing.
Then you can come back when it is most advantageous.