Photo rejected: Technical issues

Thank you all very much, the infomation you provided are very helpful, I learn a lot.

I agree with Ricky. You were exposing for the sun which causes everything including the main subject the seals to be underexposed by a couple of stops. In my opinion, this would have been better if you bracketed your exposure then combined in post. If you shot this in RAW, you may be able to drag the shadow slider up to increase exposure on the seals but I think it may be too much. 

Also, it's hard to say but at first glance it appears the seals are out of focus a bit. 

Cool scene though, I'll bet that made for a memorable evening for you. 

Better luck next time. 

-Mat Hayward

Hello,

Your image is a little cool looking, so you could add some warmth to it. Also the image is underexposed, the foreground is too dark, so you have to add more exposure. You could also add a gradient filter to the foreground to add a bit more light.