Thank you, Geo, I guess I was going by the AOL enhanced image which seemed sharper and brighter on my monitor (I haven't figured out how to adjust the monitor yet). Just to show you what I saw, here's how the 'AOL' version appeared to me, to give you an idea at least of what I was trying for.

Also I have been trying to get sharper focus with this lens, which I know is a great lens, but I must be doing something horribly wrong. Even in bright light with auto mode and auto focus on a tripod or handheld w/VR of a relatively stationary object like a tree branch, I can't get a sharp image. I was just hoping I could go for mood or effect anyway, but evidentally the technical issues undermine that.

Thank you, however, for the time you took to give me your feedback. Back to the drawing board I guess. I'll find a way to make this work since I can't afford anything else now until I get the lens paid off, haha.