I think what I would have done here is shot those sneakers (in the way you laid them) on a basketball court or sidewalk pavement. The carpeting just seems out of place for these sneakers and it doesn't add anything to the shot, IMO.
nice idea. like how you laid the laces to not make the heart too obvious. perhaps a duotone conversion to red could have strengthened your cause for the voters.
Um, there isn't anything technically wrong with this shot. I personally am unmoved by the choice of subject matter. IMO it's just too drab - the grey carpet backing doesn't help.