Remarkably well-balanced in every respect, not least of which is the true horizontal of the wand. The guiy's expression makes the picture. One wonders what he's looking at, up therte somewhere, and the sense of anticipation is palpable. Flawless rendition of the flames. The protruding thumb is an essential element of the composition. I admire this very much.
This is a very nice portrait. Have you considered a vertical orientation? I'd maybe like it better if the middle third were presented in portrait. The flame on the right side is a redundant element and a closer crop would add a sense of intimacy to the shot, whereas currently it's a bit distant.
Nice flames but I'm just not fond of this shot. It looks like a snapshot of a tourist attraction altho you've captured the flames well. Keep trying and best of luck in 2005.