On 1., the subject seems out of place. Try following the rule of thirds, or cropping it.
Keep your horizon line balanced from edge to edge, it's a bit tilted.
The highlights in the sky are blown. Try burning to retain what's there, but for future reference, lower your exposure to keep the detail.
Lastly, the picture is extremely contrasty. I don't know if that's to your tastes, but it's a bit of an oddball. Though it is a personal preference.
Second shot... well... it's a leaf I suppose. Try a different angle, the subject seems to be scattered.