Christmas Newborn

[AmandaPfeiffer]

Here is a picture I took of my cousin's baby, Hailey. I am practicing taking pictures in the hopes I can someday start my own photography studio and this was my first shoot where I went out and bought props and went to their house as I would if I were charging an actual customer. (It is also my FIRST attempt at using Photoshop Elements!!!)

The ornament is originally blue, but I thought since she is a girl I would make it purple/pink, more of a girl color.

Something that I am most interested in is wondering if I should edit myself out of the reflection of the ornament....you can see me taking the picture. Is that distracting? I kind of like it but that's probably just cause it is me you can see! LOL

[aakash_vakil]

IMHO, It gives me a feeling that the kid is tied to the metallic props. Maybe try with a soft toy or a soft fabric?

Regards,
Aakash

[FrankenPengie]

I don't think it's such a good idea to wrap a baby in distractions - especially ones that would be quickly recalled from anything sold for babies. The child's face seems a little dull compared to everything else, even her hair. I think the emphasis is not on what you want it to be.

[kimspics]

I did not want to be the first to say anything negative, but when I look at this picture the very first thing that comes to mind is the baby being strangled or choked by the beads. I know thats not the case and am very sorry for saying it but it is what comes to mind. I think the pic is fantastic other than that----too much fuss in there babies are little bundles of joy without all that- keep flicking away.

[Nathan deGargoyle]

Well you have silver, Puple rose and mirth. Maybe you got the wrong Magi?

[AmandaPfeiffer]

Hey everyone! Thanks for the advice....I honestly was quite surprised at what you were saying but REALLY appreciate it! My friends and family all just keep saying "that's really good" and "you're so good" but don't ever have any constructive criticism I think due to the idea that they will hurt my feelings.

Originally Posted by Nathan deGargoyle

Well you have silver, Puple rose and mirth. Maybe you got the wrong Magi?

I'm sorry I don't understand what you are saying here??

[jiminyClickit]

AmandaPfeiffer,

You never know what way a Critique will go. At least you have viewpoints from a variety of skill levels. I noticed mostly it was a case of composition and background. The newborn is very well photographed, fuzzy arms, eyebrows, nice sharp image. A little contrast may bring up the gray/darkness some. A crop would be a good test for your family members: if you ask them to choose between this one, or a tightly-cropped one, and they choose the crop, they aren't worrying about hurt feelings, simply making a choice between two of your photos.

[kimspics]

it was a really really great pic- except for the abundance of beads thats all. I just don't want you to think that I thought the pic was bad. Take a look at my most recent and let me know what you think. thanks