Thanks for the tips (and Hallie compliments! ) I am hitting myself in the forehead here Tony. I did buy that book back when you first recommended it. I read it through at the time and didn't even think to bring it out for this. Although I do realize now that some of the things I tried to help the reflection here, were things I got from that book and must have stored in my memory banks. Good point about the shadows too, I agree, I'm usually not a huge fan of flat lighting, I like more dramatic and side lighting too. Will have to play some more!

Thanks Jim, would love to see your shots when you get them! Black dogs are a different challenge aren't they. Fun though! Ahh...sure! Frosted ornaments! After I read this I went to a stock sight to see their ornaments and sure enough each one of them are frosted! D'oh!! Anyone want to buy some nice really shiny ornaments? Cheeep??

Thanks Julie yep I see you are right about that now. I should have figured that one out on my own.

LOL Sue!! I see them now..the smily faces. In fact that's ALL I see now. LOL! I make the nose...too funny. By flagging do you mean using barn doors or a grid or something?