Liked them all. Amazing shot of the swans. You got them to swim to you in perfect formation. Thanks for sharing.

I'm new to the forum (2 weeks) and saw your circle/sky family portrait tonight. Your creativity impressed me so I'm working my way through the other photos you've posted. I found this intro and would like to comment.

I'm still learning how to take good photos myself but I still know quality work when I see it. You definitely have a gift for taking gorgeous baby shots. In addition to the creativity and quality in your shots, there is definitely a warmth that radiates from each picture. Part of it is clearly your talent but I suspect your love as a Mom may be also shining through. It's clear you adore babies.

I would suggest you stop focusing on what you're not doing and focus instead on all the wonderful things you are doing. Your shots are some of the best I've ever seen. You have every reason to be proud, positive and happy.

John

I'm trying to learn how to put more creativity into my family photos. You achieved it here in spades. Beautiful shot of a beautiful family.

I guess it's all in the perspective. What you're calling a problem, I would gladly frame and hang on my wall. Thanks for sharing.

Now that you've completed this, it makes much more sense to me.

I have Captere NX2 I bought with my D700. I'm just starting to get into it. How do you like it?

These are really great. It's an entire movie done with stills. Curiosity, exploration, hesitation, discovery, frolic, departure. Kids are the same from every species. I love it.

I like them all and vote #5 best of show.

Great response. Looks delicious.

My first two years of retirement were taken up with family health problems but the last two years have been wonderful. Everything revolves around spending time with my family and friends and enjoying my hobbies. Wish you continued enjoyment with your retirement. We worked hard to earn it.

I'm not qualified to critique your photo but would offer a comment on your question about a 50mm lens. I purchased a Nikon D700 camera when I retired and equipped it with a 50mm 1.4 lens. Five years have since passed and I've never added another lens.

The lens is ideal for low light situations both indoors and outdoors. It's a great lens delivering a creamy, out of focus background for family shots. You can also stop it down for general photography and get sharp images with a deep DOF.

My needs may be less diverse than most in that my photography is mostly confined to people (family) and places. I can tell you that the lens has met all of my needs in those areas delivering consistently outstanding results in every shooting situation.

Typically, a 50mm prime lens is one of the smallest, lightest and least expensive lenses you can buy. It might be worth your while to add one to your camera bag in addition to any other lenses you may buy. Good luck with your night pictures.

John

I worked for a winery in the Napa Valley for 18 years before retiring. Your shots did a great job of capturing the quiet beauty. Brought back some happy memories. Thanks for sharing.

Beautiful shot. My favorite photos to take and to view are natural candids of children. Thanks for sharing this handsome little guy.

Great saying. Thanks for sharing it. One of my favorite sayings is "you catch more bees with honey than you do with vinegar".