Vibrant colors are always good, but for me the natural earthy look is the best. 

I go every fall to some of the local ponds knowing the cottonwood leaves will be there waiting for me. 

I like to get there very early in the morning before the sun breaks the treetops. The shade from the trees and still dark sky causes the water to turn black.  

I look for groups of unusual patterns like this one.  The water seeping into the center leaf forming a heart shape was a bonus. 

This is an image that needs sharpness throughout so if you’ve been paying attention, you know I’m going to tell you to set the aperture at f/32.