I spend most of my time here in C&V, but the few times I have wondered into the Road threads - specifically the "Hot r Not" over there - WOW... those guys have RULES..
I agree with the neutral background - garage door for example. I try to do it when the sun is out, but no sunlight in the shot because shadows disturb the shot.
As for the bike:
I like the idea of having it in the big ring up from and small in back, but if it is not it does not disrupt the picture for me.
I like the idea of the cranks set-up somehow on purpose - like horizontal or in line with the seat (or down) tube.
I agree 100% with the OCD of the valve stems inline with the logo on the tires - but where they are in the rotation does not bother me so much..
Can I get off topic (but kinda still on topic) for a second and address a couple rules I use in my builds? These things go a long way for me in what I think makes a good looking bike:
The crankset/seatpost/stem should be the same color.
The saddle and bar tape should be the same color - unless it ties in some other way into the bike to make it look like it belongs there.
There should not be more than 3 colors (4 at the most) on the bike or it starts to look too busy.
Fun thread Drillium Dude!