Great background idea! I think the leaves really add something, especially in that first picture. Just keep taking them and eventually a few will turn out!
Perhaps you could make the bedding of leafs on the ground, then place the snake on the ground and THEN put a hide on top of it. A hollow water bowl. You may want to put the bedding of leaves over a strong flat surface so no burrowing can happen. Anyway, the idea is to get the snake settled down and comfortable. Then remove the water bowl and take the picture while the snake is still suprised and motionless.
Good luck!