Thank you very much for your encouraging words. Indeed I tried it with her eyes closed (for a dreamy atmosphere) but like this I think it is a bit more dramatic. The viewer may wonder what is she looking at and that would spark a bit more interest to the pic. Well, at least that was my intention.
I like this Yakim, especially her open eyes and the reflected light in them, and was thinking similarly to your explanation about wondering what she is looking at. I think the original photo you referenced probably has more to do with selling eyelash makeup or something...
