These shots were taken INSIDE/UNDER a tree canopy that was about
7 stops darker than the brightly-lit, mid-day-sun, beach-sand
background (perhaps brighter). In order to prevent a horribly
blown-out background, heavy flash was necessary. The results are,
of course, a compromise that is less than ideal. Given the situation,
I'm pleased with the results, though there is nothing that can replace
having decent light at the scene.
Del Mar, CA