Eye of the 'Gator

[Cindy Cone]

This was at the Alligator Farm about a year ago. I first noticed the leaf on the gator's head, then I became interested in the lines and patterns of the face, so tried this composition. All comments welcome.
Canon 40D, 1/40, f/11, Canon 100-400 mm at 210, fill flash.

[Cindy Cone]

Thanks for commenting, Peter. This is a rather strange one, and I hesitated putting it in this forum. It's full frame, and the gator was almost parallel to the camera. I was on a boardwalk sitting down to try for a lower angle. The gator's jaws and teeth would be to the right if the image were extended in that direction.

[Sabyasachi Patra]

Cindy,
I like the composition. Nice details. I was about to ask whether you placed the leaf on the gator. :D

I would like just a little bit less at the top and some more space at the bottom. Good to see that you pulled it off despite the low shutter speed.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi

[David Fletcher]

I'm guessing you didn't put the leaf there for compositional effect: :). Textures and pattern are interesting. Thanks for sharing.

[Connie Mier]

Cindy, I love these kind of shots, gators have fascinating skins! Beautiful abstract quality to it. How you composed it relative to the eye is perfect. I only wish the leaf was not there, but would have not attempted to remove it!
Connie

[Cindy Cone]

Thanks so much for your comments, everyone. No - removing the leaf wasn't an option. :)

[Katherine Enns]

The leaf and the eye are very similar color, and I think it adds something to the odd feel of the photo. Love this textured look. Might recommend a little face cream and less time in the sun, maybe... :)

[DanWalters]

Great close-up! Love the detail in the skin and I like the leaf as well.