Theme: Maple on Wood

I photographed this yellow maple leaf on a deck railing. I desaturated the wood since it had so little color anyway. I also applied the paint daubs, dry brush, and poster edges filters and darkened the edges a bit. I experimented with flipping the image vertically and then couldn't decide which version I liked better, so I'm posting both. Any C&C are welcome!

Here's the flipped version.

Chrtistopher, When I first started doing design work I was taught that the larger stronger elements should be at the bottom and that has stayed w/ me. So I would go w/ #1 .I also think it feels more balanced. I like the bold color of the leaf against the desaturated wood.

agree with Denise about #1 and leaf at bottom, but I much prefer the leaf pointing down
AND at bottom

Thanks Denise and Dave! Dave, good suggestion on having the leaf at the bottom and pointing down. I'll be sure to give it a try.

striking colors of leaf against woods
TFS

I like the image with the leaf at the bottom--where it might be if it fell. The yellow leaf stands out nicely against the B&W, while the B&W has lots of details that are interesting to view. Nice balance.

Big Congratulations Christopher this image has won our weekly theme and is the wildcard pick for IOTW!!