Beginner Photography... Looking to Improve!!!

[frontboard180]

Hey everyone, I'm just getting into photography. I got my camera (Nikon D3000) this past Christmas and I've been taking pictures ever since. I'm posting now in hopes of getting any criticism on some of my "better" images

Some questions i have are:

- Is there too much post-processing? Too Little?
- How is my composition?
- Any other critiques are greatly appreciated!!!



EXIF Data:

Camera: Nikon D3000
Lens: Kit Nikon Lens, 18-55mm
Shutter Speed: 1/30s
Aperture: f8
ISO: 100
Flash: no flash

This photo was lit only by a desk lamp and it was shot with a white background (made from drawing paper) and on a green felt table cloth that came with my poker chips. The post processing was done in PS. I can't remember exactly what I did (I now have a notebook to help me recall in the future), but i know I converted it to B&W and did some blurring of the image and some selective coloring to highlight the focal point.

Thanks in advance

P.S. Please visit my flickr page, there aren't too many images there and comments are greatly appreciated as well.

Flickr: frontboard180's Photostream

[windrider86]

imo its too dark. Its ok to add a vignette but just make sure that your focal point is highlighted by the vignette
I'd also try and focus on your main focal point which I assuming is the 8 card. That should be crystal clear

[Sterling]

The post processinng makes it look like it was shot with some kind of spy cam. Not sure if that's the look you were going for.

I also agree with windrider86 - why is the edge of the red chip the focal point and not the cards?