Update: Woo I won the music challenge with the T1 (on the right) and came 23rd in this challenge with the 300D (on the left). So I reckon size certianly doesn't matter :)
The wife has never complained, but I guess that all depends on the person and the choices that need to be made. Great idea for the picture and well defined facial expression. My wife really got a laugh out of it, nice to have a little humor. Keep up the good work.
I'm doing fine with my 50mm (lens =) so I'll say no, it's the way you use it.
The lightning is way too hard (on camera flash right?) Not sure about the b/w, otherwise good.