I am so glad you posted your "cut" slices. I am inspired to try a loaf now. I would not have known you were a "newbie" too, if you hadn't mentioned it.
I had read somewhere that you can rub a tiny little bit of almond oil on the outside of your soaps to make them shine. I had some sage soaps which were also dulling a bit, and I tried it, rubbing it with a very smooth cloth (for cleaning glasses) so it wouldn't leave any lines or marks. So far, so good. They are holding their shine nicely now, and look just like they did when they popped out of the mold. They don't feel greasy, but I used a very small drop. This might work for you, I don't know.
Your photography is great, too.