Portrait shots

[rebcastillo77]

I did an improptu photoshoot with my niece today. Here are the results:

[Frog]

Color and focus are good or as good as can be using a flash that close.

My main problem is what isn't shown or only shown in part.
First shot lost top of head and hand on shoulder looks as though someone sneaked up behind her and grabbed her shoulder.
Second one her elbow is gone.
Last one, her fingers disappear off frame. Might not be a problem if that hand was same as her left hand.

These are things I always notice and have received a reputation for pointing out.
The reason they distract from a photo is that our eyes follow lines and when those lines suddenly disappear off frame it interrupts the smooth transition from one place in a photo to another. Our eyes then become like those toys that run around until they hit something and then change direction. Much smoother if they don't make those sudden stops.

[Ridgetop]

I agree with Frog on the cut off parts . But, the first shot was on its way to being "there" if the whole head was in the frame and the hand wasn't on the shoulder. Very nice attempt. Second shot is way too soft for me. Last shot is very cute and all so close. She looks like a great subject and I think if she can put up with you dazzling her with your flash then I'd try another round.