Picture Required?

Posts : 14

This is sort of a rant, and sort of a point I want to bring up over the requirement of pictures for character bios. I honestly don't see why its REQUIRED, or how it helps the site in any way other than giving a picture to the point of the character.

To understand this, I'd first like to point out the face-claim thread. As I look, I see source claims from Google-Images or Photobucket, or whatnot. This is an unacceptable face claim in the first place, as Google or Photobucket does not own the image in question, and all it says to me is that its an artist's piece being used without permission.

Now, looking at acceptable face-claims... that leaves only anime and other things you can legally put under fair use. You cannot use Deviantart or other such images in fair use; I've had this argument on several other forums. So, since images are required, are we SUPPOSED to use anime faces?

The point I'm bringing here is that face-claims are not foolproof, nor are pictures. I cannot find an anime picture, nor do I have a WANT to find an anime picture, of my character's written description.

And if you're telling me to use another picture, that means I have to track down an artist and ask for their permission... ?

Anyway, that's my point. Please feel free to discuss, but I am honestly not comfortable putting a picture on my character profile, and if its mandated for approval, then consider my character never-going-to-be-approved.

Age : 29 Posts : 3145

Look I understand that this will be a problem for your character especially, and so it's only natural that you are raising the issue. On the other hand I honestly think that a picture is mandatory. Although words are great, an actual image allows you to truly visualize the character and makes it come alive.

So about the face claims - they allow you to grab a fairly known anime character for yourself, so that you don't have 4 Sasuke look alikes walking around. Yes, maybe in your case finding an image will be difficult (and it's unlikely than anyone will want to use the same image), but then, surely you must have got the inspiration from somewhere right? As far as I see it, you're like a werewolf so you might as well type in Jacob Black on deviantart Razz

Jokes aside, the face claim is useful and I personally see no reason for it to be removed. Also, why shouldn't you link artists on deviantart? If someone asks you where did you get that drawing, it's completely legit to point them to the artist who created it.

I myself do small time deviant art work. If someone used one of my images, it would just mean that it will get to be seen more and eventually, people will be directed towards me and my other works. Seems like a good deal to me.

Posts : 14

I personally know of several artists who would never want their image stolen/used without permission. Maybe you don't art for cash, but its hard to tell who would be offended and who wouldn't.

If you use an image, face claim it. But I refuse to use an image on the above basis. The insinuation that its "just because I cannot find a picture for my character" is both absurd and irrelevant.

Age : 29 Posts : 3145

Absurd and irrelevant, huh? I'm very tempted to answer that... Suspect

Well either way, you should think of others as well as yourself. Perhaps you can just imagine and visualize your own character as well as other characters, but not everyone can do that. Personally I find that having a picture helps a lot in understanding not only the appearance, but the kind of vibe the said character gives off and other minor details, that are useful. Also new members (whether to roleplaying in general or naruto etc.) do and will probably find it very useful to have an image to match the description to, because honestly, does
"She was a quite pleasant and pretty girl, whose smile dazzled all" give you any sort of mental picture in particular? Sure you could talk about hair and what not, but adding an image emphasizes as well as somewhat backs up your words, no?

Perhaps it shouldn't be mandatory, and yet highly advised.

Posts : 14

So if its to help beginners, why don't we just make it an either-or thing? Pictures honestly don't help me.

Age : 29 Posts : 3145

The staff are discussing this - thanks for the suggestion.

Age : 31 Posts : 2547

We have made a decision regarding this issue. Pictures are no longer mandatory on applications however they are encouraged for the benefit of other members.

Thank you for your suggestions/concerns.

Solved.