New User - Sunset suggestions

[lynnmm1961]

I'm new to these forums and looking for any advice on my sunset shot taken with my Canon PowerShot SD990 IS (auto mode with no flash). Now that I have a Nikon D5000 I'm looking forward to getting back into photography as a hobby but its been awhile (since my SLR days). Any tips/comments welcome.

This picture was taken after a rainstorm on the Ottawa River this past summer.

I've posted some of my other sunset shots on flicker lynnmm1961's Photostream

[navcom]

Welcome!

Your shots seem to be a bit bright on the contrast side. Not quite sure why. What did you use for an aperture setting? Could you post your EXIF data?

[lynnmm1961]

Originally Posted by navcom

Welcome!

Your shots seem to be a bit bright on the contrast side. Not quite sure why. What did you use for an aperture setting? Could you post your EXIF data?

Thanks for the reply Navcom. I see what you mean about the contrast. I played around a bit in Photoshop with contrast and saw how it improved. I wasn't sure if I still had the original on a memory card but found it. Here is the EXIF data. I did have the camera set in Auto mode so I let it control all the settings other than turning off the flash.

ISO 200
1/100
F5.8
+- 0
AWB

As far as composition - any suggestions?

[navcom]

I like your composition on this one. You did a good job of framing using the tree and branches. I would almost be tempted to try and clone out the boat up front. It might simplify the image a bit.

Might want to try a smaller aperture...say f/8 to f/13 or so...if your camera will allow it. It will give you more depth of field, which is desirable for landscape shots. For sunsets/sunrises, this means you will need a tripod.

Neat Piper on floats!

[lynnmm1961]

Thank you for the feedback. Since I took this shot I have found that my Canon PS has alot of flexibility that I'll play around with. I keep it with me all the time for my "pull over!" shots.

I will definitely be following your advice now that I have my Nikon. I picked up a tripod on the weekend and can't wait to get out although more shots of the Piper will have to wait a few months - it would need skis right now. I've already learned quite a bit reading yours and other responses to other critiques on here. Can't wait to get out and put some of the ideas into practice!

Thanks again!