How did you get the background effect? Gaussian blur?
First let me say the photo was taken outside...handheld...with good old fashioned sunlight. Although I do a fair amount studio work this is not one of them. The background of the origional image is simply foiliage of other cactus and desert plant life. The process for creating this background effect is really quite easy and tons of fun. I use PS Elements 8, An older program. I'm sure the newer versions PhotoShop and PS Elements contain this feature. First, click on Filters ... From there choose Distort and Then click on Liquify. Your image will then appear on the screen where you can choose different size brushes. In my image I used a rather large brush. Just click & drag the brush across the area you wish to distort & liquify til you get the effect you desire. Think of it as "Modern Day Finger Painting" Hope This Helps Ron