Gerard: Your technique of shooting through FG leaves for a soft surround is what we used to call cramming. It was in vogue several years ago on the old NPN site but for some reason faded away. I look for these possibilities and like the result when the conditions are right. I applaud all your decisions here. There is good sharpness where it needs to be which is a perfect counterpoint to the softer areas. All in all a superbly crafted image IMO. 
=))>