Ok I posted some pics to my gallery and it says to tag them and I don't see anywhere to do this. I would love feedback on these. I was not posing the boys in the pictures just random shots I took. If I am posting these in the wrong place please let me know sometimes I can be computer dumb. If you know what I mean. Thanks.
First, it would help if your posted these in the critique section, one per day. Secondly you need to add the Exif data, that's the data store by your camera on the file giving us all the technical aspects of the shot. Such things as the camera, lens, aperture, shutter speed and ISO. It also lets us know the lens used and your distance from the boys.
Having said all that I'll comment that you need to do one of two things, get the flash off the camera or don't use the flash and just shoot with the available light. By using direct flash mounted on the camera you get strong contrasty light that causes harsh shadows and unflattering light in portraits. Next, do some reading on composition. With the solo portrait the area to the left of the boy doesn't contribute to the photo, it's just a chunk of brick wall.
I would suggest you work close to the boys. fill the frame with their face. If you can supply your light source from above their head and off to one side notice the catchlights(the twinkle in their eyes) and shoot then. Keep trying and experimenting. There's a lot of free information on lighting, composure and portraiture. It's all free.
Side Note: Exif data software is free at
Free software downloads and software reviews - CNET Download.com. A Windows based PC would use iExif and an Apple system can use iExifer to display Exif data. It's all free.