Amanda

Still trying to learn to take good portraits...so critique is

appreciated! Thanks for looking!

Nice photo of a young lady...For what it's worth, when doing portrait, I try to draw the attention to the person(s). Zoom in more(so leaving out much of the background), or by using a shallow DOF. Also lighting is important and how it hits the subject. Off center is good but does not always fit the photo. Try different angles/perspectives... eye level, slightly above or below, head and shoulders, 3/4 view, etc. Portraiture is not super easy... at least I find it a challenge. Anyway, hope you can take something from this. As for this shot... sometimes it's just nice to have a picture of a pretty girl. Regards Ramsey

Thanks for the constructive comments Ramsey. I guess the overall lesson for me is to start thinking more like a photographer. I've heard and read it all before, but the only excuse I have for my lack of creativity is this was taken the first day I had my new 20D. I was more focused on using the camera than composing the shot... Also, I have to say that my beautiful girlfriend can be quite the distraction, but I usually don't care because like you said, at least I always get pictures of a pretty girl! and who doesn't like those? :D thanks again...

Adjusted

John, that's a great version. You made the color sort of pop out. However, whether it's my monitor or just my preference, I have to say its a bit bright for my taste. You made me realize that I should probably lighten it up at least some though. Thanks for the insight!