Photography

I was wondering what you all think about my photos? Do you think they could ever get me anywhere? I am by no means close to professional, haha. This thread is really just for fun. But do any pictures really stand out to you?

~HorseBacker~'s photosets on Flickr

Thanks for looking and I appreciate comments!

You've got potential, but they seem pretty... 'average' I guess, have you taken any photography classes?

One thing I notice is that everything is sorta... dead center, I was always taught you NEVER want to have anything center, that the human mind is attracted to things that aren't.

Absolutely you've got potential! Anyone who is willing to spend the time to learn about photography, why not!
Photography is a very expensive career to get into. The cameras cost a lot of money to buy, they cost a lot of money to fix and you constantly have to upgrade with what's "in".

Photography is self directed career, there are very actual "in" buildings where you can go and work. It's all self directed career. You will have to build a portfolio, create a website. You will have to get in touch with the right contacts and you will to do a lot of word of mouth. It takes a long time to build up clients and you will have to do a lot of good, free work.

As long as you realize the expense and have the time and dedication, nothing can stop you from not doing it.

Good luck!

You absolutely have potential! I just pulled some photos from your album to critique, I hope that's okay. May I ask what camera you use?
First off, I urge you to read up on "the rule of thirds" - it becomes exceedingly important in photography. The rule might seem very odd at first, but once you get the hang of it and understand how to use it correctly, you'll notice a huge difference in your photos.
Secondly, if you're interested in equine photography, pick up the book "Photographing Horses" by Lesli Groves - I actually have this book sitting next to me right now and it's got so many good tips and tricks... I've learned a ton! The biggest thing I learned from her is angles. They are all-important in correct equine photography - a fantastic photo can be ruined by a bad angle.

Ok, here goes:

DSC07141 on Flickr - Photo Sharing!
This image caught my eye right off the bat. Very cute pony, I love how one of the eyes is in shadow. The lighting is quite flattering; her mane is a great contrast compared to her coat. What I don't like is how "centered" the image is, and the background isn't great. With a very slight crop and color adjustment, you can really make this photo pop.

blackandwhitefancy on Flickr - Photo Sharing!
I adore this photo. I love the lighting, the expression... lovely. Two critiques: drop the angle. See how she looks small because you're standing above her? If you were to crouch down so you're about barrel-height, you would have a totally different view of the horse, and her head wouldn't look so big compared to her body. Secondly.. rule of thirds again - read up on it, and learn to love the thirds. This, to me, is one of the best photos in your album.

DSC08554 on Flickr - Photo Sharing!
I really like this photo - but I'll say it again... proper cropping and using the Rule of Thirds, and proper contrast adjustment will take this photo from "aww, cute dog" to "wow, great photo!"

My biggest critique with your nature shots is just that you need to embrace "The Thirds" Once you master that, your photos will go from "Great!" to "WOW! Stunning!"

I do disagree whomever said you always need to buy new stuff... that isn't true. Once you're set up with a good camera, good lenses, and a few other "necessary" options depending on what type of photography you are looking to do, you really don't need to upgrade all too often. I do agree that it is a costly venture to get into though; the initial investment INTO the equipment is a big one, but once you have your set-up, you're pretty well set for many years, unless you're into a sector of photography that demands it. Teehee - my dad is by no means a 'pro' but he takes darn good pictures when he does drag his camera bag around... I'll venture to say his [film] SLR is circa the '80s.. we have a few printed, framed photos of his hanging around the house.

Thank you both! I use a Sony Cybershot DSC-W55, but I am looking into a Nikon Coolpix L100 or other Nikon cameras.

I started with Nikon, and love their products - I will deftinitely be sticking with them!
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Once you get the many rules down, you CAN break them.

Oh yes, but understanding the rules first gives insight as to how you can break them to improve your photography.
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Yep
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I wouldn't even bother with the "rules" of photography until you actually know how to use the basic settings of your camera. Without knowing how to use your machine the way it's intended to, learning the tricks of the trade will do you no good.