Nice composition not sure what processing approach you have adopted but I guess it is the fading out of the background to to give an out of focus look.?
@barrowlane exactly - i often increase clarity to get the bokeh clearer rob - this time i decreased & was surprised the almond and branch stood out so well :o)
It works -- draws my eye right into the main image. I might have made the blow-out of the backdrop a little less high-key-ish, but think it does work overall.
@taffy thanks taffy - i agree that it's not very natural looking so hi key. related to this, i sometimes wonder/worry what effects people see on their screen/device - when i open my images in windows photoviewer they look pretty unsubtle and overdone with the editing effects super visible - then when i open the image in other programs or export them they look how i want them to. 365 seems to fit with the image i want but facebook doesnt. appreciate critique for sure - if i go on to another year i will definitely do it with more emphaisi on improving and being more critical :o)