Selective Color - Does it work?

[kathyjaws]

I haven't posted on this site in a while, but I enjoy feedback, so please, let it rip!

I took this shot a couple of weeks ago. I'm looking for some feedback on the BW conversion, the selective coloring itself, and overall feel. Does this work? Is the BW conversion too "contrasty" or not enough? Does the leaf in color draw attention to the wrong part of the photo? Is the composition okay, or would you have posed differently?

EDIT: Also - the vignette...is it too subtle?

I know that the photo breaks lots of rules - he's relatively centered, you can't see his eyes, etc., but I just kind of liked it. What do you think?



Exif:
Camera: Canon EOS 50D
Flash: No
Focal Length: 135 mm
F-Number: f/5.6
Exposure Time: 1/400 sec.
Exposure Compensation: 0 step

[lputman]

I personally think the selective coloring draws the attention directly to the leaf. I have to force myself to look at the rest of the photo.

[kathyjaws]

Thanks Lori. I do actually agree...and it's not even a pretty leaf! The client liked it, but I need to get away from the selective color when it's an object. I appreciate your thoughts!

[2seta1year]

What about adding a bit of color back in to the whole photo? Also perhaps a bit of a warmer chocolate BW version?

[irishmuth]

I really like 2seta's idea adding in some color to the whole thing - so that it's a desaturated look without being grayscale.

Mike

[laura.wilkerson1333]

anh. im biased against selective coloring anyways. but i don't like this.

[candleman]

i seldom like selective colour, and this one is no exception.

but, overall.. its a cute image

[Kbaby]

I think its a gorgeous photo... His amused smile at the leaf shows you such young innocence!!

I would probably unsaturate the leaf a little bit so it blends in with the B+W a bit better, subtle yet noticable too! =)

[wal]

I like the smile and his interest to the leaf. it gives this pic it's identity, but i agree with kbaby.. unsaturate the leaf a bit so it blends..

[kgb224]

Outstanding work.