how cool is that - if that is your first go then you are heads and shoulders above a lot of others. I think the image is first rate.
I did however save you large version and had a play - without detracting from your image i think you could repro it by creating a new layer in PS then editing that for the levels and adjusting the outer markers to the start or base of the left side and then the right side then do a 50% opacity and merge with original layer. then create another layer and then go to the mode and change to lab colour. from here you then select the channels and then select "a" then go to the adjust brightness contrast and slide the contrast to 30, then do the same for the "b" channel then go back to layers and then change the mode back to RGB. note i said no to flatten the image on both occasions. then blend into the bottom layer with the opacity tool. hey i am only a hack so if you have your own way of doing things have a "sidionio" or a repro. normally with these things you take a few attempts to improve things
I love your image the focus is sharp and the colouring is so subtle - there is so much to see there. thanks