Hey, thanks James! That is great and I do remember your article, I have gone through it and used it more than once. Your fixes here look great! I put them up un-post processed (is that a word? ) to show the darkness but as you showed here, PS can save some amazing things. (I see you preserved the pink blossoms while brightening the rest, that's great).

I also noticed a few times I focused on the ribbon and even though it was only a few inches in front of her, that put her and the dog OOF. (another lesson learned).

I imagine though that a much better shot can be gotten right when taking with the camera...would you say I should post process all these or redo the shoot? And if I redo the shoot, what should I do...I guess first of all I need to learn about my flash more. I unfortunately tossed the ones I tried the flash with but they were all very washed out even when I pointed the flash straight up. I worry on these dark ones, some look grainy when I lighten them plus if I was doing a big shoot, I would hate to have to post process each one individually due to time.

Sounds like the best solution then is to use flash? I have the 580EX...if this is the best thing I can ask to have another shoot (poor kid LOL). But want to get it right, third time is a charm! Any words of wisom on where to start with the flash...I will in the meantime read up on it, I had put that off since I have mostly been doing outdoor natural light action shots, this portrait stuff is a new thing.

Thanks so much James!