For some reason, I'm literally "seeing" the site title last in both of the samples. I'd try a different font or give that one a different treatment. I also agree the background table should have some texture added to it to help give it depth and pull the pics up a bit. I'd also take the big fella on the right and do a slight "darken" and up the contrast on it a little to give him a more ebony coloring and sheen.