in what ways could I improve upon this picture. I am trying to improve my skills. Lately been practicing with exposure, is there a way to know what shutter speed and F-number to use when working with the sun/shade? I have to take a few pics playing with the numbers before I have something to work with, whereas other people just pull up and shoot and bam a nice pic (not in auto mode)

Also im using a mac and don't have a great editor, whats a good program to use that doesn't cost a lot

 

First you should always shoot with the sun on your back, that will prevent casting a shadow like you see in this picture.

Pick an angle and elevation that is different then if you were to just walk right up to the car. Pictures become intriquing when they are shot from a point of view that isnt normal. Even the simplest things can be very interesting to the eye if shot in a way that we dont normally see them. Lay on your stomach, back, neal, a ladder...etc

Yes there is a formula for shutter speed and f-stop. I forget off the top of my head, but do a quick search.

 

unfortunately I had to shoot with the sun in front because the grass curb was 6 inches high so it would have gotten in the way of the wheels, and the ocean was on that side as well. ill have to fund that formula and ill remember to shoot with the sun at my back.

 

Here you go this is a general guideline for exposure.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunny_16_rule

 

perfect thank you.

 

hmmm, i've never heard of the sunny 16 rule....i'll have to try that one out

 

I personally prefer the sunny, go drink a pint of beer till the sun goes down a bit rule myself...

 

Sunny 16 is better if you're shooting full manual.
If you're in S or A mode, the camera does the math for you.

That said, I would expose for the bright background, then knock it down 2 stops, then expose the car with fill flash for a dramatic look.