Flower: Critique needed

[Kathryn]

Hi everyone.
I am very new to any sort of photography, but I just enjoy taking pictures. It's simply a bonus if it's a good picture!! :lol:
My camera is a simple, cheap, but nice camera, a Pentax Optio W10 Waterproof. It takes some nice pictures, and I want to be able to use the camera to it's full extent.
I am very much a beginner, and I am looking for tips as to how to improve my pictures.
Here's one of a flower in my garden:
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q265/Kathryn002/comp.jpg

All suggestions welcomed.
Thank you all,
Kathryn

[maddog10]

I am definately not one of the experts here, but I notice that the flash is too strong. You could diffuse the flash with tissue paper or you could try to adjust the flash output (if your camera has this function).

[Kathryn]

Thanks for the critique. Yes, my camera does have a soft flash mode, i'll try that next time. ;)

[phishphorphun]

A couple things here Kathryn.

If your camera has a "closeup" or "macro" option on the mode settings, you may want to use it when shooting real near images.

Also, a very steady hand is required to get a sharper image. Because of the delay experienced with the typical point and shoot dig cameras, you have to train yourself to hold the camera still a second or two after you trigger the button. Setting the camera on a solid base or tripod helps greatly with the p&s dig cams too.

As Michael, so observantly noticed, your built-in flash on your camera should be diffused when shooting closeups or aquaria shots. Just be careful not to have the tissue touch the flash lens when you attach it. Rapid firing of the flash can cause the flash lens to get scorched if the paper is touching it.

Keep sharing.:-D

[Kathryn]

Thank you very mich for your suggestions. I will see if there is a macro setting on my camera, but for now I am using a flower setting, which I think is more or less the same as macro. I will try to practise keeping the camera very still, as i know how important it is. ;)
I do have a soft flash, but I am not sure if it makes much difference. I shall try the tissue thing. :D
Thanks again,
Kathryn

[ortegah]

Yeah, the flower icon is the macro setting :)

[Kathryn]

Yeah, the flower icon is the macro setting :)
Thank you.