Branches

So many superb elements to this stunning photo: the slant of the main trunk in the foreground - echoed by the sun's rays and the shadows it casts - drawing the gaze across and into the picture space; the branches sprouting from the fallen tree seemingly swept back by the force of the light, reversing the direction of the composition and drawing the eye towards the razor details of the twigs starkly silhouetted by the brilliantly lit leaves, down to the softer surface of the lake. The diagonal edge of the water then harmonizes with the main directional emphasis, following the bank back up towards the sun again.

Such an energetic composition contrasts so well with such a serene scene and makes for a remarkably exhilarating image, balanced by the movement preventing any one feature from dominating the frame.

Perhaps not helpful for a critique but I can't fault it at all, it's a fantastically well put together picture, brilliantly executed, all the more so because the light must've been fleeting. A beautiful moment and one we're privileged to share.