Fall Colors Inverted...Which version? Or should I "try again"?

[sk66]

Took this shot with the plan to invert the image and use the reflection as the "photo".

Here's the image pretty much SOOC....It wasn't my "first version" (see link if interested) but I don't know why not...It's actually the 3rd version...I think I first thought that the floating leaves were "detrimental" even though I captured them intentionally...now I think it gives the image "context".


Here's the second version I did trying to come up with a composition that "works" using only the reflection.


I'd like opinions on which image you prefer and why (of the 3 preferably) or if I should "try again" with a new capture.
The reason I ask about the possibility of trying to get a "better" image is that my wife (and others) have commented that the blurred trees are just "too much" and make the image hard to look at. I admit if I focus on the trees it seems a bit much but I thought it "works" overall...
(hmm, if I'm saying something like that then I guess it could be better)

Exif is the same for all of them:
Exposure 0.001 sec (1/1000)
Aperture f/5.6
Focal Length 35 mm
ISO Speed 640

[boun]

I am for the first one like 100%

[sk66]

Originally Posted by boun

I am for the first one like 100%

Do you mean the one in the link?
Thanks!

[boun]

yeah, that one
it looks like a painting, with a photo as a reflection, really good job
I also like a few of those yellow leafs in the left uper corner they give a balance to this picture

[sk66]

Originally Posted by boun

yeah, that one
it looks like a painting, with a photo as a reflection, really good job
I also like a few of those yellow leafs in the left uper corner they give a balance to this picture

Thank You.

[kylethemiller]

I love the first posted picture. The one with the leaves floating. It's brilliant.

[Photologyst]

Well, it’s an “interesting” idea. However, the photo makes me feel like the room is moving when I look at it.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by Photologyst

Well, it’s an “interesting” idea. However, the photo makes me feel like the room is moving when I look at it.

If the shoreline hadn't been so far away (200-250yds) The reflections would have been clearer (the "near" in the picture was about 15ft), or if I could have taken it from higher angle. I think that would make it better...
Unfortunately it's been very windy the last two days and all of the leaves are falling...I'm afraid by the time it calms down enough for a try at a better reflection the leaves will all be gone.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by kylethemiller

I love the first posted picture. The one with the leaves floating. It's brilliant.

Thank you!