Meet my silly Great Dane, Gracie

[cb2]

Alrighty ... I've been trying very hard to learn how to effectively communicate with my camera to get as close to the desired shot I want instead of spending tons of time post production in Lightroom and Photoshop. I took this shot lastnight of my crazy girl Gracie.. She's so fun to watch!!

Please critique me as you see fit, and keep in mind this is directly out of the camera, no touch up whatsoever.

Thank you!

Flash
40 mm
f/4.0
1/60

[Laurenbiz]

The first thought that comes to mind here is that nothing is specifically in focus here. Maybe the dog's nose? Because this seems out of focus, I don't really find it very pleasing to look at, even though the dog is acting funny.

Even though manual focus is available on my lenses, I rarely use it. I typically switch my button to auto focus. If I don't like how auto focus is focusing, then I use manual focus. You may want to try the different focusing options to see what works for you. I'm not sure which one you used here.

Also, I suggest better lighting so you don't have to depend on built-in flash. I don't like the harsh shadow in the background that a flash always produces. If you could get the dog by a window, or outside, or even if you turn on extra lights in the room, you can avoid the flash.

I applaud you for being excited to really want to learn and understand your camera! Keep it up :-)

[cb2]

Thanks a ton for your honesty. Exactly what I was looking for.. I've been working on the focuses / lighting this week, and will be back next week with a new pic.

I am not a fan of flash photography at all.. So. Better lighting to come =)

Thanks again!