a nice idea, but it has a few things holding it back. the poor focus on the cap itself doesn't help. if the cap was more to the right, that would help the composition, as it's very static at the moment. curves might help the very bright window. is that a cat back left? basically, it needs more focus on the cap, both literally and figuratively.
A very uninspired shot. It's as though you read the title of the challenge, and took the easiest shot you possibly could, that was in accordance with its guidelines. Next time, try harder.
Shallow DOF is a wonderful tool, but not when it only leaves a sliver of your main subject in focus, and not even a critical sliver at that. Instead our eye goes exploring the busy and distracting background. Also, centering the subject makes it very static. Hope there's something here that helps...
ah saw... gotcha! cool idea, you could have also put this on the end of a fishing pole, maybe outside too, (also keep in mind a little more focus could really help this photo) -- keep up the good work