More late fall colors

[Steph_B]

Dear All,

Here is a shot I took a couple of weeks ago. The day was seriously overcast and slightly threatening (it actually rained later that day).

I passed by this stunted little berry tree on my way to the car. I couldn't help being amazed by its bright red berries. I mean, picture this (no pun intended): it's cold, it's wet, it's dark, and besides the green of the grass there is no other colors... Yet this little leafless tree (a shrub really!) manages to put on such a big show!

Earlier this week, Roger (readingr) posted a similar thread (i.e. red berries). I considered posting this pic there, but I didn’t want to hijack his thread.

Anyway, I am now submitting this pic to your criticism. I kind of lost my objectivity and can’t decide whether this works or not. I mean, do you find the fact that the tree trunk is not straight a major distraction? Would you have liked more DOF? Was my use of the split ND too much? Should I straighten the little path (but then the trees on the left and right sides will not be straight anymore)? Are the colors working for you? And quid of the composition?

Hey, don’t feel like you have to answer all these questions! But I definitely would appreciate your input. Thanks!

Cheers,

Steph.

Velvia 50 (what else?), 24 mm, F11 (or F16 – I can’t remember), 0.6 split ND filter to darken the sky + old faithfull Gitzo + PS magic