I took a photography class this year, and still taking it, the "advanced" portion. I have to say, it has greatly improved my knowledge on cameras how they work, using manual settings, but one of the best things I learnt was the 6 rules of composition...lines, rule of thirds, mergers, balance, framing, and simplicity. I'm excited to get a DSLR soon as well with what I have learned. The first photo is very clear and well composed. It's off-center, simple, somewhat balanced, no mergers (good thing), and the bush provides a bit of a frame at the bottom which complements the focus very well. You could say that the fence and the bricks provide good lines that also complement the focus but I find lines an addition and less of a necessity.

Critique not criticism. [smiley=thumbsup.gif] Have fun with the new camera! 8-)