1st pic for your critique- silk plant

[dukefan4life]

Nikon D80 with kit lens

This is the first photo I took after joining the site yesterday. Read thru one of the beginners tutorials on using the settings other than automatic. I left the settings at home but I just wanted to hear your comments. I'll edit the details later today. Just excited to hear your comments so bring 'em on!!

[tvoelcker]

I must say that it looks real.
Nice use of depth-of-field and very intriguing shadows and lines within the frame.
Most folks would try and bathe the subject in light but you chose a more dramatic light.
One distracting element in the two green pods in the background to the left.
One, they are competing with the flower pedal and two they are touching the side of the frame.
I would have tried to keep them out of the shot.
Other than that I think you did a nice job.
BTW welcome to DPS ..