Mike and Jason, thanks for commenting! I've uploaded a new version. Change: with possibly my most awkward tripod position yet I used f/8 (FZ5 maximum) and 1/2 s. New background. I had to delete the previous image version and upload the new one separately to update the EXIF information. I saved your comments by copy & paste.
JasonH 22-Nov-2005 03:05
Agree with Mouse - great concept (composition) for the pic, however I really think you could improve this pic by using a smaller aperture to expand your depth of field a little. You could still go for the blurred background, but I think by using the lens' sweet spot in this case you could have the foreground subject in crystal clear focus.
Regards
Mousehill 21-Nov-2005 16:36
Great combination of lines in this image, especially the lined up knots that run towards the upper right corner are great. I would like to see some more detail in the background and a slightly sharper front-knob though. Perhaps a smaller aperture will enhance the image even further?