Amateur looking for feedback

[newphotogirl]

So these are basically the first shots I've taken w/ my new (used) Nikon D80. I used a 50MM lens, basically just looking for some general feedback anything that looks good or what I could have done different to make it look better.

The 5th picture is actually from my point and shoot Canon SD100, using the Digital Macro setting.

The subject is my foster pug, I volunteer for a pug rescue and she is my current charge. I plan on shooting a lot of dogs and am wondering if the 50MM is the right kind of lens.

I am here to learn so thanks for any feedback you can provide.

[OldClicker]

What a little doll - great work. I find the 50mm a little long at times in our small house, but the low light really helps.

Here's a couple of our foster - a Husky mix.

TF

[newphotogirl]

Thanks for the reply OldClicker, fellow fosterer
The Husky mix is beautiful. Did you take that picture with a 50MM?

[OldClicker]

"Did you take that picture with a 50MM?" No but they both used flash. First was at 75mm and second at 100mm with f/2.8 lenses.

[ken1953]

Newphotogirl...first of all...welcome to PR. You have found, IMHO, the greatest photography learning site on the web. I started here several years ago as a total novice and have learned so much from all the helpful and friendly people that we have here. It's like one large, happy family and all are willing to help you all along your way.
Now for that adorable little pug!!! She is such a darling and a great subject to shoot and you are a wonderful person for fostering her. I think you are on the right path and I think your 50mm will suffice for awhile. However, like anything else, as soon as you start to learn more, you're going to want to have different lenses for different situations. For example, if you are outside, and your dogs are doing something at a distance, you are going to want some kind of zoom, etc. There are, as you probably realize, all kinds of lenses for all kinds of situations.
Some kind of a "Macro/Zoom" would be a nice 2nd lens, as soon as you can afford it, and of course you can continue to grow after that.
I'm sure there will be a lot of people jumping in here over the next few days giving you plenty of advise on your particular camera and lenses.
As for critiquing your shots, try our "Photo Critique" forum. The people who hang out on it are really into helping out new photogs and can give you some really great and detailed advice.
Good luck and keep those great pictures coming. #1 is my favorite...it really captures a pugs essence!!!!

Old Clicker!!! ditto to you on the fostering!!! It takes special people to foster animals. Keep up the great work. Your current charge looks like she might have some "lab" mixed in with that husky...you think???
Anyway...I agree with NPG...it's a beautiful animal!!!

[Franglais]

These are portaits (the subject isn't human but that doesn't matter). If you shoot with a flash head-on it's just like shining a torch in your subject's face. Not the best to bring out the subject's character.

I would try natural light. Find a place with lots of light in the right direction (next to a window but with no direct sunlight). Make sure you have somewhere comfortable for your subject to sit so they don't bolt after 2 seconds. Keep an eye open for distracting background. Turn the ISO setting way up to be sure you have a shutter speed that is fast enough to freeze any sudden movement (at least 1/125) and an aperture that gives you enough depth of field to cover at least the face (f4). Set your focus zone on the eyes. Then see what you come up with.