Focus and darkness- Stream and Leaf

[Stargazer1223]

I'd love to know which you think is better, and any general critiques as well!
This is my first post here and I've been working with my first DSLR for about 4 months now. Be gentle =P


Camera: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi
Exposure: 0.017 sec (1/60)
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 49 mm
Exposure: 0.00
ISO Speed: 100

OR


Camera: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi
Exposure: 0.017 sec (1/60)
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 33 mm
Exposure: +0.29
ISO Speed: 100

[shell]

Definitely the second one for me. It's lighter than the first, which seems a bit too dark in the background part, and seems a bit crisper.

But what is that red thing in the water?

[HoosierGal]

I prefer the second because it is lighter and you can see more detail. It's still a little too dark, though. I do like how you can see the light caught in the ripples.

[kencaleno]

with local contrast enhancement:

[windrider86]

You may want to consider getting in closer. I'm willing to bet that whatever that red thing is in the water would be be amazing if zoomed in a little closer and perhaps even a different angle.
Not always something you can go back and do. I sure see why you took this shot and commend you for your sharp eye

[Kieran2009]

Funny how noboby bothered reading the title. It tells you right there that the red thing is a leaf.