Sun-kissed Hibiscus
by Greetmir

Comment:
To me, the downfall of your photo would be that it's too bright or over-exposed due to the light source being behind the flower. There's a noise problem too: like you've cropped this from a much larger photo?

Untitled
by jeger

Comment:
Well, the focus is good and the contrasting colors are nice but in a challenge with so many very, very interesting and technically perfect photo, I just wonder. I think to improve it, imho, I'd have gone for a tighter crop.

Carduus nutans L.
by lynnmarie

Comment:
The crop is too centered for me - I think it should have more empty space to the left side. Also, it looks like some smoothing effect was used which I can't decide whether I like or not.

Mossy Floor
by Kaizer

Comment:
I'm not sure what it is to me that is making this shot appear 'ordinary' for lack of better word. I think it's that I can see so much more then I do.

Don't Mess with Me!
by sulamk

Comment:
Don't worry - I won't! What the heck is that critter!?!?!?! He's a little backlit but your crop is nice.

Elemental
by Silver

Comment:
Severely backlit and too many dust/sensor spots. I would have focused more on the water which look to be the most interesting area of the photo.

Cuff Links
by jbahl5

Comment:
A good idea. It's good DOF but I think I'd have liked it better if the flower were in focus too.

Inevitable Discovery
by Imagineer

Comment:
I'm hoping the 'gesture' is accidental. I guess it's funny but something I'd avoid posting for a challenge photo.

Racoon in Mangroves
by dale99

Comment:
The leaf in the way is a major distraction otherwise I think it would place much higher then it probably will.

Passing the Time
by Transit

Comment:
The only down-side that I can see would be the obvious - the vignette. I don't think it will appeal to the masses but I like it. Your 'subject' is very animated to say the least and of course, it reminds me/us that we are fortunate souls. I'm giving your photo a 10 and am hoping it will finish in the top 20 of this mega-entry challenge. Brightest Blessings.