I would agree that the background is distracting. I like the low angle of the second shot best; the soup is also more prominent. I think I would pull the soup a little more to the center of the image. But in that shot the lighting looks a little more flat.
I like all your ingredient props. I think I would do a couple less lemons. The bread is looking somewhat pale, it’s probably the lighting. Good job at having layers: board, plates, bowls. The burlap doesn’t seem to go in such a little amount. My eye is confusing it with the bread.
That’s a unique recipe for the cookbook, Laura. You’re getting better with your still life shots.
-Hannah
