This is by far one of the all time most unusual photographs I have ever taken. I was out walking along a creek not far from my home today trying to get some autumn foliage images and I came upon the top of the "dam" that has been put in place to keep the creek from flooding its banks. On the high side of the dam was this vortex, formed because the underwater spillage valve was jammed with leaves and debris, hence only a small amount of water was getting sucked through.
Not only did I get the vortex but I also got a leaf right before it got sucked in and...if you look closely at the top, you'll see me - standing there - taking the photograph!
This is definitely one for OOTB! Before I read your explanation, I thought there would be something about all the layers and effects that were applied in PS - but WOW - this look is the way it was shot.... It looks like it could be a composite!
Very good catch. I really need to start putting a camera in the car!
I only got one of the leaf going down as it only took a split second but I did get a few other images - none that showed the vortex, the leaf and ME all at the same time, though!
Jules
At first I thought that this was something you had digitally created through PS......then I read that it was natural. Holy excrement.....that is so cooooool!!!!