A boy and his dog

I am trying to better my pet photography.

Janice... I get along well with kids and never met but one or two dogs I didn't like, so this image caught my attention at once. For a comment I've attached an example of my thoughts, but all I did was simulate a more shallow DOF with Gaussian blur on the background, cropped to an 8x10 ratio and burned the edges a tad -- all to keep attention on the subjects. I have not tried to adjust any other lighting because I'm on an uncalibrated monitor... Good shot... Mike

I like your treatment of my photo very much. Thank you. I think I have Gaussian blur on my Paint Shop Pro Photo X2 program. This is something to remember in the future. I don't know how to burn edges. I think you are talking about "dodge and burn.", right? I am looking for more photos like this one to post.

Yes, the dodge and burn tool and I was just burning highlights. I use a fairly large brush but at a low density so that any changes are subtle and not drastic. Also, I wasn't clear but you have to use your selector tool to isolate the background before using the Gaussian blur. It would be easier to just use aperture priority when taking the shot and use a large aperture. Good luck as you spread your wings... Mike

 

 

Another good moment you've caught here Janice. Mike makes a good point about backgrounds - they should always be considered carefully when composing and setting aperture, as they can definately detract from the subject. I don't think this background is particulary bad, just that it doesn't really add much. The main subjects are very nice.

 

Best, David

You are right about the background. I took this picture months before I joined photo.net, and I have learned so much since then. Thank you for your gentle comment, David. I will have to be more careful when I make new photographs, considering the whole picture, background included.

Janice, You have captured a very fine moment of a kid and their dog enjoying each other's company.....Regards Elaine

I bet there isn't too many people that could resist smiling when they view this image, it's full of charm and character.

 

Great Shot well seen!

 

Regards

 

Alf

Thank you for your encouragement, Alf. I will have to look for more opportunities like these next time I visit the dog park.

Thank you for your nice comment.