My first real attempt at people

[nada87]

I recently upgraded to a Canon T3i. So far I am just using the 18-55mm kit lens. Trying to decide where to go from that lens. I took these laying on the ground with the kids balanced on my feet to get natural happy expressions. Gave my legs a good work out. Please judge away!

 

[sashbar]

I like the idea, but by shooting this way you create an exposure problem. Effectively it is a backlit portrait. Or a poorly lit subject against a bright background. To pull this kind of portrait out you need a reflector if the sun is bright, or a flash. Alternatively shoot at sunset, positioning yourself so that the low sun lits ther faces. Otherwise your portraits will be underexposed or , if you expose for the face , your background will be overexposed and washed out We can see both here.

 

[dweazel]

Sashbar nails it....
But i'd add that the angles you've chosen are creative and show that you're trying something different - which is always to be applauded.
Sort the exposure problem and do it again!
ps - if you use flash then bounce it off a reflector to the side of camera (you flash may swivel to allow this even if top mounted)... A reflector is a great investment.