A few shots of my Niece....suggestions welcome

[Memorymaker]

This is my Niece Freya, photographing her is what started my interest in photography.

These were all taken on her 1st Birthday. They were taken with a basic point and shoot (FujifilmA800).

I like this one, but it is cropped from a larger picture that was too busy with peoples feet etc.
#1

By the end of the night, the dress was off and she was having a ball. I thought these were interesting not sure about quality though.
#2

#3

#4

#5

I have been using shutterfly, for my photos. But it seems to crop the pictures of its own accord. Anyone else experienced this? can anyone recommentd another similar site.

MM

 

[djs]

The 1st pic would have been great if it wasn't cropped so much.
You don't really want to be cropping the right hand side of the photo, because that is the direction the girl is looking. So it might create that king of 'what is she looking at?' feel.
But as you said, there are peoples feet in it.
However, the background seems fairly dark, so it might be possible do some serious Photoshop'ing to cover up all the distracting things.

Maybe you could post the original photo (#1) ?

The 3rd photo also would have worked if it was in focus. But it looks a little bit like it was taken on a camera phone.

Sorry if I haven't helped much

 

[Memorymaker]

Thanks very much for your reply. Other peoples coments really help you think of things differently.

Which is why its a little disheartening being new and 100 people look but only one takes the time out to offer any advice - thanks

MM

 

[Betty]

Which is why its a little disheartening being new and 100 people look but only one takes the time out to offer any advice - thanks

I am sorry you feel that way MM, but many people have said in the past, rather than say something bad, they dont say anything at all, I know its a pain when you're asking for crit

Ill crit now I am here:

1 - Too tightly cropped, but you've stated your reasons
2 - Would have been better in focus
3 - Same applies
4 - Would be better if she didnt have limbs cut off
5 - Prob the best one, shame she isnt smiling, I know you cant help this

Not much to go on I am sorry, all IMO

 

[moomike]

I'd tend to agree with Bettys comments on these images MM, except that I really like the 4th shot - I do think that a B&W conversion would look really nice but if you decide not to follow that route then I'd suggest just getting rid of the red-eye & possibly increasing the contrast a tad