Starting out.. Can I get some feedback?

[rwilliams]

I've worked as an assistant photographer several years ago. I started on my own soon after, then had two kids back to back and photography got put on the back burner. So, I'm starting out again and am kind of re-learning everything. I've done a few shoots for friends and family & just wanted to get some constructive criticism.

 

[rwilliams]

 

[TreeofLifeStairs]

There's a lot there to critique. Many of them had either too much noise or focus issues. What ISO did you use on those out doors ones?

 

[rwilliams]

I don't remember :/ But the ones of the 4 girls.. those were easily my worst. That was my first session and I really screwed it up. Thank goodness they were only doing it to help me out. But it was late in the day, about to rain and very cloudy, and I just used my on camera flash and I had my camera set on Auto (I know, just go ahead and kick me out now).

 

[rwilliams]

Can you tell me which ones specifically had focus issues? I know for the sure the ones of the girls, but are the rest of them bad too? :/

 

[Braineack]

The above photos demonstrate that you still have much to learn in photography; technically and fundamentally.

 

[IronMaskDuval]

I don't think all of that post vignette is needed. It's a bit much. Composition is also something you need to work on. Overall, I wouldn't have been happy if I was the client. I'm new to photography, but I understand the importance of a well composed piece when it comes to people photography. Also, the female doesn't have very many flattering angles. I think it's #5 with the frontal and mouth closed that does her the most justice. Even as a hobbyist like myself, I TRY to make it my first priority to make my subjects look exceptional.

 

[tirediron]

Way, way too many image for effective critique. Main issues that I see at a glance:
-Composition & backgrounds. That poor girl in the first series has more things growing out of her head then anyeone should have to suffer with.

-Excessive DoF. Use larger apertures to create a shallow DoF and isolate the subject from the background, especially when the background is less than attractive.

-On-camera flash & red-eye. The hot shoe on your pentaprism is NOT a place to put a speedlight, it's a place to put a trigger. Unless you're shooting events, flashes DO NOT GO ON THE CAMERA!

-Missed focus. 'nuff said.

-Excessive vignetting. What are you trying to hide?

You've caputred some good moments and expressions, but the technical aspects really kill all of these images.

 

[KmH]

IMO the composition for all that you posted is acceptable.

I would say the posing and the quality of the light you use need work.
The light in most of the outdoor shots is flat, and the subjects don't 'pop' from the background.
I agree the post process vignetting is over used and a bit to dark when used.

For the outdoor kid shots I would recommend you get closer and include less of the environment.