Hello again

I would like to be able to submit photos to istockphoto so I need 3 good photos for my application. Im not an experienced photographer but I enjoy taking photos. Ive now finally got a camera and lens Im happy with and have started taking some pictures. Please give me some honest and constructive critique and if you have got any advice on how to improove (lighting, composition etc) that would be much apreciated. The first set of pictures are of my baby boy. They accidently got a bit overexposed but I rather like them a bit brighter (what do you think?) There is a thin thread on his cheek and the drool that has to be photoshoped away. The files (except for the first one where Ive taken away the reflexes in his eyes) are JPEG straight from the camera. I also have the RAW files.

newbielink:http://www.qualitycrafts.net/Photos/ [nonactive]

Hi

Thanks for your reply.

Im not going to submit three baby pictures in the application, the other 2 will be different. Im just not sure the baby pics are good enough to have any chance to get me aprooved. For example Im wondering if the depth of field is to shallow and if the focus on the eyes is acceptable to istock standards.

Yes, the hair on the cheek is a problem, also the red jumper is covered in bits of fluff which ideally need to be removed.

Whilst the direct flash needn't be a problem, you will get better results if you invest in a separate flash unit with a swivel/bounce head.

Otherwise, it's nice and sharp with smooth tones.  Note that the image inspectors at iStock are quite creative types and shouldn't have a problem with shallow focus.  BUT in my experience there is a difference between a picture being accepted and a picture that actually sells - you'll find that picture buyers generally prefer everything in focus.