Gracie

[Kelly24]

Hello there,

My name is Kelly and I'm new to digital photography. I'm mostly interested in taking pictures of my furry "kids" and people. Below is a shot of my Yorkie/Maltese cross Gracie. I'm hoping for some feedback/criticism of the shot. I already realize the main problem - it's not even close to being a sharp picture. My question is - is it because of one of my settings or is it because I wasn't steady enough with the camera. Another similar picture I took of her was crystal clear but she didn't have nearly as good of an expression and her ear was cut off. Based on how clear it was, I'm assuming the blurriness of this picture is just because of camera shake but maybe it is my settings?

Canon Rebel XTI
Shutter Speed: 1/25
Aperture: f/1.8
Focal Length: 50 mm
ISO Speed: 100

Besides the obvious blurriness is there anything else that I can do to improve it?

Thanks in advance for your advice/criticism - I appreciate it!

Cheers

[fotoworx]

You're using too slow of a shutter speed for handheld {if you handheld?}. If you get below 1/60 you should use a tripod or brace yourself on something to keep you steady. The only other problem I see is the window behind your dog, it's too bright and a little distracting, keep shooting.


Photography Tips

[Kelly24]

Thanks fotoworx! It was a handheld shot so next time I'll definitely push up my shutter speed.

I didn't even think about the window but you're right, it is really distracting. She sleeps in that particular spot a lot so for my next attempt, I'll close the curtains!

[fotoworx]

You're welcome Kelly, BTW IMO your composition on the photo is spot on.


Photography Tips

[Laurenbiz]

I see blur here. Using a 1/25 shutter and an ISO of just 100 is destined to create some blur in the environment here. If you want to stick with those settings in a low-light setting, you'd have to use a tripod. Or, increase your shutter and/or ISO if you're holding the camera.

[wadey1982]

I like dogs or cats eyes to be looking at the camera and always in focus. I try to get them to look at the camera by clicking my fingers, whistling ect just above for lense. I think it engages the photo if there is some direct eye contact and you might just capture their personality in a image.