Thanks Tex

Earnest. I appreciate the comments.
Bob

Thank you Andy.

Thanks Jaymatt
I think the B&W helped set the mood.

Thank you Wayne.

Thank you Longshadow.

David - Thank you for viewing

Many songs and stories about black cats and in this case black alley cats.

(Download)

Here is my post. I brightened shadows, softened the skin slightly, removed any blemishes, and removed the loose hair strands. Completed in PS.
I suggest you use layers so that you can un do any of the edits that are questionable, such as too soft.

(Download)

18-24mm. F16.
Foreground interest if possible.
Siloutes are a plus
Watch the placement of the horizon.
Find a high location in your home town and get shooting before your trip.
Practice adjusting your settings as the sun will set quickly.

I agree 100%. A photographer reaches a higher level of competency when they understand the limits and capabilities of their equipment. Do we all need this high level of understanding to have fun and capture excellent moments? Not really. I just spent 1 week using each of my lenses and revisiting their unique aspects. Not a lot of emphasize spent on composition rather understanding their sweet spots and their DOF.
This excercise started after reading an article on zone focusing.
The excercise was fun and easy. I found out that for street photography I prefer 35mm rather than the highly recommended and popular 28 mm. I also realized the limited DOF my 85 mm lens produces. There will be no shooting from the hip with the 85mm.

Just a lite hearted list that exposes some subjects that have been beat to death.
I got a chuckle out of it- but it won't influence my shooting.

Use your camera everyday. Take a pictures inside - outside. In the shade and in the sun.
You have received great comments here. When you learn the terminology the advice will make more sense. Read the manual. You will do fine.

I like the last shot where he is seated in the chair. He has figured out the need to hold on tight.
You could read his mind- I'm done! Or as you stated- Enough!
Great work!

Welcome to the hog. Can you share some recent pictures?