Two portrait photos. C&C

[GerritSmith]

Here are two portrait photos I took. The first is my niece, the second my brother.

 

[joealcantar]

Take the time to get rid of distractions if possible. If they are giving you an expression you want to capture , go for it. But if you can move the subject to a better location/background setting even better.
I would have pulled the little one out of the stroller and sat her down or had her hold the stroller and grabbed a head shot without a busy background. You would be surprised where you can shoot someone.
The second young mans black hair is blending into the dark background. The shadow behind his head may indicate you used flash as well as the catchlights , try pulling him away from the background next time or if possible bounce the flash upward and let it bounce down to rid the shadow. When you are not sure what the flash is going to do try the modeling light on it to show you where the shadows will fall.
-
Shoot well, Joe