Seattle Story

I love the colour palette and the texture in the leaves that you have captured Craig. I do find my eyes are drawn to the oof leaves in the background though. I think I'd prefer the image simpler, without the background leaves personally (and possibly also the dark green leaf on the extreme left).

E

A pleasing shot. It would have worked well for last weeks challenge as well. And how fortunate you were to get this shot on one of the rare rainy days in the Pacific Northwest.

Nice entry!
Lovely leaves and the water drops add character.
Mixed emotions about the BG leaves - I'd be interested in seeing a version without them - but it's YOUR (nice) image to do with as you see fit!
Sandy

I like this image. Great color, comp and dof. I just like the feel of the image.

Beautiful capture of early spring leaves covered with rain. The background leaves don't bother me, but the two bright spots in the upper right are a minor distraction.

I appreciate everyone's input. I confess confusion as to when blurred background objects support or detract from an image. I searched out several examples, especially in the flora gallery, and found similar backgrounds that were well received. Of course, none of them were exactly the same composition, so maybe that's the objection here. I sort of felt that the background leaves added some contextual and color support to the sharp foreground. I definitely agree with Mark's comments on the bright droplets in the background and have reposted a version that addresses this issue.