The flash is straight on which i personally don't like

Yes, the reflection in the eyes are a bit too much for me too...

Also, the blur at the fringes are a bit disturbing :(

I think the background is fairly distracting, and also the lighting is a little too harsh for me.

I don't suppose anyone has anything good to say as far as a critique? My daughter is quite proud of this photo of her, I was hoping for anything in the way of "positive"...and yes, I do agree with the negatives. It is natural light actually...daytime, in the home, on the couch. I will however work on what you all point out as negatives. Thanks for your comments.

Potraits generally crave a more forgiving light, soft skin tones are a must really. You have made mistakes that all of us "newies" make with such images, and that is to think that crystal clear, sharp images are the thing all the time. Not so. It's a lovely photo, and your daughter is quite right to be proud of it, after all Mum took the photo!! Don't be down-hearted at the critique, it's designed to help, although I admit it's easy to interpret it as being a little harsh. Try experimenting a little with Gaussian blur and see what you get, use a minimal amount e.g. 1 or 2, it might just take the edge off it.

Thank you very much Andrew, I appreciate your taking the time to explain things to me and offer suggestions and direction. I will try your suggestions and see what I come up with.

I really dont mind negative comments, I just prefer being told why something is wrong (not just simply that it is wrong) and ideas/suggestions on how to make it right.

Portraits using flash is difficult. That's why I hate doing portraits! If you have Photoshop try removing the hot spots in your post processing (I think there are different ways of removing it). Also did you add the blur around your daughter? I think it takes away from the portrait as my eyes tends to focus on it rather than the opposite. I hope this helps.

I think you have really captured this young girl's enthusiasm and zest for life.
I can see why she would be proud.
I too am trying to learn a little about photography.
So far I have only learned just how technical and
complicated it can be.
That's why I just point,shoot,and hope for the best.
If I shoot enough I catch some decent scenes.

Good composition except that it may have been cropped too close to the top of her head. I like the different colors of rubber bands on her braces. classic