Filters - What Do I Need - (borrowed image from Richard)

[theantiquetiger]

I think Richard takes some of the best portraits (or the type of portraits I want to take).

All of his portraits and many of his images have "Auras" around the subjects. The lighting is soft but well lit, eyes have a glow, not just reflecting the light.

How is this obtained, filters, lighting stands and reflectors, better camera, post processing, or a combination of all?

I have finally reached a point where I can get a good portrait of my daughters, well lit, sharp eyes, etc, but it still looks like a snap shot.

I borrowed these images from Richard, I think these images are amazing with the eyes, soft light but well lit (hope you don't mind Richard).

What am I lacking to achive this "glow" in my portraits?