James,
All I did was pre-sharpen in PhotoKit Sharpener. Original files shot as RAW. Eyes in daylight are darker but with this type of lighting, they tend to open up a bit (which is what I was trying to find out). On the other hand, this set-up is easy to carry and does a nice job with the shadows.

I still prefer my 45/45 set-up for studio work but I could use this approach in the field fairly easily.

I like the Golden shot indoors but Crash with a toy is, well, CRASH. After he finishes his meal, he walks around the house with the dish in his mouth. He is SO blonde .

Jim