Thanks. I pay close attention to all your comments. I agree; that isn't the sharpest picture and I can't seem to fix it, but I wanted to add it to the critters. Stay tuned for my osprey shot!

another critter entry

Thank you chapjohn - sounds like a good idea if I panic!
I'll bet I will have a great opportunity to practice shooting with flash - Irene is coming and we may be out of power for several days!

Thank you, Paul. I have been reading quite a bit about flash, but it is complicated to me at this point. As you suggested, I will set the WB (outdoor wedding/and then a restaurant celebration afterward). I only have 24 hours to prepare, as I just received the flash a few days ago, but I hope I can get some decent shots and then really dive into the details and get some professional help (camera help, that is!)
In the restaurant, should I set the ISO, TV/AV to the ambient light in the room, or do I have to anticipate the amount of light that will come out of the flash?

What is the importance of white balance when using a flash?
I am about to do a shoot indoors and using my flash for the first time.

I think the 24-105 would be adequate for all shots, including close-ups (there is 50mm range in there, remember). But having a separate 50mm lens is a good idea because it probably is a little faster. My 50mm is a 1.8, and I plan to take it as a second lens to my next shoot. PS: If it sounds like I know what I'm talking about....I really don't, but IMHO, you can't go wrong with either. I have the 24-105 just because I am an amateur and can totally rely on it. Good luck! Nat

I am an amateur and have done a few very small weddings. I have a Canon 7D and I always use my 24-105 lens for these occasions because I can always count on getting quality photos.

Nat