Second 'studio' attempt - C+C welcome

1.

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/thesancho/97021​07400/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/thesancho/96988​72487/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/thesancho/97021​06654/

1 and 2, the lighting seems too "crisp" and harsh, 2 has some wierd lighting issue going on at here left ear. Great smile in that one! The crop cuts off her hand in a weird place. 3, the crop is uncomfortable. It seems forced and the toy and his foot are cut off. The toy takes too much of my attention, most likely due it bright red mass! lol
Over all I'd say nice job for your second time!

Thanks.

So flash was too powerful? Or too close?

Only just noticed the ear thing. Not sure what happened.

The background was quite narrow, but I think I need to remember to be wider so I don't get issues with the cropping of limbs.

Any suggestions for softening the flash in lightroom? Or is it only possible at the tim?

It was the first time iI've used my external flash guns, only other time I've used a studio set up was a course I did and the chap set everything up. I'm reasonably pleased, but annoyed as I think they could be better.

I like #1, it is a very good capture of the smile and eyes. I think you have some hot spots starting to show on her face though. Reduce the light a bit.

#2 is a great laugh but the light on the side of her face ruins it.

#3 is another cute shot but the cropping is off. Zoom out/back up a bit to leave some room around the subject or crop between joints.