Foodgawker Worthy?

So, I've been submitting blog photos to FoodGawker and TasteSpotting. Sadly, Foodgawker has declined all my submissions... except for one... which was a photo I didn't take... and it was from someone else's blog - grrr!

Well, at least they tell me what they don't like, unlike TasteSpotting, who is apparently hoping I'll go away if they keep ignoring me.

Here are a few examples of declined photos, and the reasons why.

They said the background was too distracting on this one. Okay, I can agree with that, so I cropped and blurred and resubmitted.
Their reply, "looks weird... sorry".
(just rip my heart out why don't you. It only took me 24 sleepless hours to make!)

This one was labeled "lighting issues".
(hmmm)

This one "food composition".
(can't they see all that juicy goodness???)

This one "dull/unsharp".
(are they blind? I can see dimples on that egg shell)


This one "Lighting issues flash?"
(I'm at a loss for words!)


This one "dull/unsharp image"
(ugh...)

So I did a little research online and found that I should be using either a light box or natural sunlight for the best results. Apparently backgrounds are pretty important too... white seems to accent food colors best. I didn't have a white tablecloth or photographers light box hanging around, so here's what I came up with.

A scrap of leftover foam core and a bright spot on the kitchen floor in front of my patio door.
Add a tri-pod, zoom in, use "spot" focus, and...

Ta-Da!
Pretty good before and after, huh.
Okay, I'm going to try again... either I'm a sucker for punishment, or maybe, just maybe, they'll accept this one. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Update - They accepted it... (I'm doing cartwheels)... photo number 17437. Has a nice ring to it :).

Another Update - TasteSpotting accepted it too... still no email from them about it, but I saw it there this morning... photo number 35303. Happy-Happy.