Not so sunny day at the beach

[jillmp13]

This is a shot of my nephew at the beach. It was the first weekend of fall so there weren't many people.Also it was cloudy - which was good because we got there mid-day and I was nervous about lighting.

I am wondering about the composition though. I like the depth I was able to create, but it sort of bothers me that his head is right by the green grass. I couldn't have gotten any lower I was already lying in the sand - but would just like other opinions, if it bothers anyone else. And please share any other critiques you have!

EXIF:
f/4.5
1/640
ISO 100
50 mm
no flash

I also did a bit of post processing. I adjusted white balance, vibrance/saturation, and gave it a bit of vignetting. Thanks!

[NicolaB]

Hi there. I think it is a really nice snap shot, to hold a memory. Let's face it, when we get into photography, we don't do that enough.

You know what could improve the image (the grass through his head) but that would involve moving the sandcastle making etc, time settling him down again etc. By doing that, you could change it to a portrait, but I don't think this is what you were going for here.

If you are going to print it, I would think about cloning out the blue spade picture left as this will add balance. Personally I would adjust the vignette to add effect but so you don't notice it - just play with the balance until it 'disappears'.

This is nice as it is, but don't be afraid to get in closer. He had his attention on you with great eye contact. Closer would have given super lash detail etc, but changed the photograph from snap to portrait - so it depends what you are aiming for.

I think the composition otherwise is great - you could crop some of the blue sky to get in closer. hth

[WayneW]

Nice image! I'm agreeing with NicolaB on everything, with the addition of a touch of fill flash for the facial shadows. It would also add those great catchlights in his eyes!
Wayne

[jillmp13]

Originally Posted by NicolaB

This is nice as it is, but don't be afraid to get in closer. He had his attention on you with great eye contact. Closer would have given super lash detail etc, but changed the photograph from snap to portrait - so it depends what you are aiming for.

I think the composition otherwise is great - you could crop some of the blue sky to get in closer. hth

Like this? I think that's great advice with baby/child shots. Their facial expressions and their cuteness is the main reason for taking their picture anyway! Thank you!

[Hill Country Hack]

Much better! Can you crop a bit more to get rid of the blue bucket/shovel to the left of the dump truck?

[jillmp13]

I should crop it, I agree... I am OCD about the dimensions though but I guess that's only important if I'm going to print it? I could always photoshop it out Thanks!