I totally agree that a flash would have helped in this 1st photo. i really like it but it is a tad underexposed. I like the 2nd as well! Try getting down a little lower to thier level. I specialize in children and I get the best shots when I am on thier eye level. HTH!
Candace
Thanks for the replies. I am still exploring fill flash (it is really fun to learn new things on my camera), and that is a great idea about getting on their level.