Thank you so much for taking the time to reply so thoroughly, Mike. I agree. When I reduced the color saturation, there was very little value contrast in the face. As I attempted to paint said face, it was all roses and cadmiums- not many neutral tones. I wasn't thrilled about the can, either. I will have this printed and keep it as a reminder of our family vacation. As for the canvas, it is in the process of becoming a beautiful landscape of the 360 bridge in Austin. Again, thank you for your insight. I'm sometimes hesitant to post in this forum for fear of being told to stop using photos and go back to school.
I have great north light in the studio, so when I get the chance, I'll capture our little ones the right way. Oh, and I have a CanonPowerShot A70. When I take the time to play with settings, I usually get some good shots (no flash, of course).
Thanks again,
Sandra