Not really bad contrast for fp4/dagor/flash/digi-camera meter combination. The digi camera does have an asa setting on it, yes? Actually just looks like you could have used a wider aperture. Not necessarily slower shot, what with the strobe. (strobe was used, right?) Take the camera and film combo out to the garden. And I guess you could take MJ with you too, if she insists When I saw the second pic, my first thought was "Lady Godiva". Her looks and long hair would make some good "nature" shots. Even with clothes on.

Congrats on the school thing. (maybe some of the fine, generous, accomplished, generous, munificent, kind-hearted upstanding artists that read this could find it in their hearts to help a young, eager, starving artist attain his life-long goal of becoming a highly respected artist. *hint hint*)