Do my images have "that professional look"?

Here are two of my current efforts. The question of how best to photograph a knife can be debated endlessly. Beyond that however, there is this question: Do these images posess qualities present in true professional still-life photographs? Another way of phrasing my question might be: When looking at these images, what impressions of the photographer come to mind? I thank you in advance for your thoughts and opinions.

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To me they look very good. Compositionally they look a bit tight, but the final word of that should be given when you layout them to a brochure.

Perhaps some reflections on the blade would make them look more metallic.

Try also more moody approach, maybe panting with light?

The first one looks realy great.
The second one looks a bit flat. Like buddy said I think some reflections on the blade would help.

Jamie

I like the shots.. Those sound like good ideas..


Very nice blades did you make them?

I like both shots, the first more than the second. The first is simpler, and displayed the knife without distraction. The second feels both too busy (too many things) and too claustrophobic (cropped too close to the knife). That being said, I DO like the wood blocks and the mask. Just thinking out loud, what would the second shot look like if you desaturated the background oh, about 15 to 25 percent? Would that help focus the attention?

Rad

Just a thought.

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Agreed. With #1 you can see the edge. #2 looks like it has no edge and is dull.

just my opinon but for #2 mayb get down low and have the mask OOF in the b/g. i also agree with the comments on reflections. and that #2 looks like a very dull blade it almsot reminds me o those toy pirate sounds mayb of plastic that bend with the first swift blow :P.

Excellent feedback - spot on and much appreciated. I've gone back to the woodshed so to speak and tried to specifically address these points:
too tight composition
lack of blade reflection (blade detail)
competing background

Here are two images from my efforts to take your feedback into account. Further comments welcomed - Thanks!

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other than already noted these are some great shots!

The second of this lot is presented in a very original way that works for me.