Nice shots Ron. Our methods are similar. I have to shoot off camera flash due to my setup. I only have one macro lens at 40mm. If I try to shoot with the flash on the shoe then the lens shades the subject from the flash. Because like you with the 35, I have to get real close with the 40. I've had good results using different lights as well though. If you are sure you have everything locked down you can have as long a shutter speed as you need.
I did this one using a small flashlight.