Swirl - Please critique!

[tish_lily]

What do you think of the overall composition? Do you like or dislike the photo and for what reasons? Did I saturate the colour too much or not enough? Should I have used a shallower depth of field?



Camera: Sony DSLR-A230
Exposure: 0.003 sec (1/320)
Aperture: f/5.6
Focal Length: 55 mm
ISO Speed: 100
Lens: 18-55 Kit Lens

[doubleconvex]

The Pros: Good use of DOF; you have a clear subject and have done well to blur out the background.
the Cons: Your verticals (the post, etc.) are not vertical. As a general rule, consider ensuring that your verticals always are vertical (or your horizontals are always horizontal) for an aesthetically pleasing effect, unless shooting at a perspective (this shot was taken head on).

Suggestions, Consider tweaking the contrasts to achieve a more vibrant red on the post for a minimalist feel.