Selective focus, thoughts?

[Shima]

Is there too much blur going on in the foreground? I kind of like it, but would like to hear what others think.

http://shima.smugmug.com/photos/24192065-M.jpg

[Prezwoodz]

I do like the shot but also think there is a bit to much blur. I think the main problem with the blur is that it is so overtaking on the shot. If you had the blurred section a bit more to the outside of the picture it would possibly work better. Also i find that it often helps to not have both sides of the picture blurred and in front. Such as the picture i attached. But thats just a few ways of lookin at it ;)

[mercphoto]

I know a really great portrait photographer in Austin who does stuff exactly like this. Layers the photo with 3, 4 even 5 layers with the person in the middle layer. He does this by locating tunnels through vegetation to poke his camera through. Done right it is a stunning portrait.

I like your concept. I agree, however, that the foreground blurring is too much in volume, and too close to the subject. Try moving those foreground items away and more towards the edges. Also try for a bit more background blur as well to add a bit more depth.