Hey Jay,
Debated the burgundy leaf edge cut off at the top of the frame for a bit.....but I really like this! The light is fantastic and you chose a pleasing area to focus on that flows very nicely for me! Really nice job finding this and then executing it very well!
Glad to hear the reason for the crop Jay. If it was more distraction than it was worth than I think you made the right choice. Really nice abstract pattern here and the deep, rich colors are wonderful to let my eyes rest on. Well done!
Nice image. The cut off leaf at top doesn't bother me a bit--in fact, I had to look for it after reading Roman's comment. Lovely curves, radiating lines, deep colors. I really like the close crop--it places the focus right on the colors, shapes and textures. Yes, Begonia!