Request Critique

[Dos Doodles--Sam & Luke]

OK, I'm using this photo as the current banner on my blog.  My husband says it's really not a good photograph (hates the composition, pretty much everything about this picture).  I like it.  Am I not seeing it?

I'm actually looking for some notes, here. I would love some feedback.  I have a LOT to learn and I guess I need to start somewhere!  :-)

[F, Calla & Luca]

I know PSE has some if not all of these like content aware and raw editing.

[F, Calla & Luca]

That might be very helpful. My major interest is in combining parts of two, or more, photos but that might entail many techniques I guess. Any of us have PhotoShop Elements so that might present a problem too. I refuse to let myself upgrade until I know how to use this.

[Camilla and Darwin]

When you say combining photos, do you mean putting a subject on a different background? Or combining exposures? 

[F, Calla & Luca]

Putting a subject on a different background usually. I manage sometimes but it is always a lot of trial and error. I wonder about CS5. Is a new one coming out soon you think. My son could get the teacher discount so it's really not bad price wise, but I really can't even manage PSE9.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I just saw theat CS6 should be out this spring.

CS6

[Camilla and Darwin]

I could do a tutorial for that, but my main weapon in doing it is really the smart select tool, which is in cs5. Did you say earlier that elements had it?

[F, Calla & Luca]

I don't think there is a smart selection tool per se. There's a quick selection tool. What I mentioned was content aware. What does smart select tool do?

[Camilla and Darwin]

For some reason I'm not able to reply to your lower message. Smart select allows you to easily make a very detailed selection. It's great for doodles hair, that is for sure...

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

This looks amazing....perfect banner!

[Linda, Webber and Seda]

This last edit is my favorite.  Love the burn in the corners..

[Bonne Bouche]

I'm slow at commenting, but I wanted to share my thoughts. First, I really liked the photo to start with. I love how doodle on the right is just so cute and looking at us. I also love the pier in the back. Then I loved the doodle running shot, but see that if Chloe isn't your doodle, I see why you wouldn't want that to be your banner. After Camilla did her edits, I knew it was perfect! What I think i love best is how the people int the back are all with their dogs in the mist. It gives it a "romantic"and dreamy twist.  And it looks fabulous on the top of your blog!!!

[Dos Doodles--Sam & Luke]

Carla...thanks for your comments.  So thoughtful!  And thanks for the compliment about the banner on the blog!  It's nice to know you like it!  :-)