Newby with pictures

[DadOf2]

I just found some interesting links regarding composition. I hope it's not a party foul for me posting it here but here's the link: http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1806

I like the shots but agree w/ the exposure. That's a topic that I think most of us struggle with. I see the pro's use some kind of light meeter, change settings then snap the shutter. I'm sure there is some high-science regarding lighting.