Pelican

[Brightbear]

This was a picture that I took in Adelaide, South Australia, one of my favourite shots. 

[Terry]

And you say your a complete beginner? Thats a cracking shot. The only small criticism may be a bit too central

[annie]

what a smashing shot....

[FUJI]

That is one cracking shot, love the rippling water background too.........I agree with the .....too central......comment.

Do your best to compose a shot in the viewfinder, it isn't always easy, but it makes things easier later during processing, otherwise study composition and cropping.

FUJI

[David]

A great shot for a beginner! The water sets the scene off perfectly and clarity and sharpness is spot on.

 

Although I do agree with the composition comments, some shots can look good with the main subject central but a lot of interest, and viewing pleasure can be injected by taking the shot with something more in the frame...say the shore of the lake and perhaps re-positioning the subject in the frame to take advantage of it. Try to keep the focus of attention on your main subject though.

 

Or maybe have the Pelican more to the left and slightly higher, the water trail behind could give a sense of movement.

 

Composition can be tricky to get right (I know I struggle with it). And it's good advice from Fuji to look more into composition and cropping. What I also do is find photographs that I really like and look at them to see why I like them, then try to incorporate these factors into my own work

 

I think you are off to a great start with a shot like this.

[NannyFerret]

Beautiful, so much detail and good exposure.

Keep the coming.

[Brightbear]

Thank you all for such kind comments. 

[Kobione]

Well done on your first post, BB - that is very nice!!