Ok, I know these suck, but I want some honest oppinions/tips on making them better. I need them for a portfolio I'm supposed to make for a Graphics design school, so they want me to make an EX LIBRIS picture. So, if they suck tell me, but I really don't have to make them Super good to get into the school. Just something to show them that I know atleast what I'm doing. Ok, here they are...

The first one I was working on...

The second one with chromesolarize...
The second one with Hard Light...
I did these all today in a few hours, and like I said these aren't like renders, but meant for graphic design. So think about book covers, dvd/cd covers, magazines, and even web content.
Thanks...