Another picture gallery question

[Marleena]

Ever notice how the hot young girls get lots of comments to their pictures? It's quite common from what I've seen. The sexier you look the more comments too, high heels, short skirts and good makeup skills get more interest.

I sometimes wonder the motivation for posting pics. I think the majority of us are looking for some validation that we are doing okay and want to share our improvements or in my case hoped for improvement.:D Then there are a few that just post pictures only and don't seem to have any other purpose here. My friends always try to make me feel good. It seems there are lots of hits for every picture thread so there is lots of interest.

So why do you post pictures? What motivates you to comment? What makes you just look?

In closing when I first started here I complimented just about everybody but most of those people ignored my pics so I rarely comment on pictures anymore. Not whining but just stating a fact. Do onto others sort of thing.:)

[Cheryl T]

I only post pictures in response to a thread that I find interesting. I will never post the "before and after" type as I deplore anyone knowing what the other part of me looks like.
As for the short skirt/high heels shots ... well, no one really wants to look at us old broads do they???

[Marleena]

I only post pictures in response to a thread that I find interesting. I will never post the "before and after" type as I deplore anyone knowing what the other part of me looks like.
As for the short skirt/high heels shots ... well, no one really wants to look at us old broads do they???

Lol.. I hear ya about us older broads. I've resorted to age unappropriate heels and minis at times myself or nobody seems interested.:D

I agree on the before and after pics. Suffice it to say I look better as older woman than an old guy.:)

[Roni Lynn 68]

I personally do not know if I will ever post a picture on this sight. I do understand why so many crossdressers post sexy pictures. It is real simple. Growing up we have been told girls, women are suppossed to be desired, wanted and put on a pedestal. That is what many of us want also at times. I think it i ok to flaunt it if you have worked hard to get it. I have seen many very attractive CD's on here and have wished just one day in my life to look that good. There are many times I wished I would have been honest with myself at a younger age and pursued what was in my heart. Then I would not be where I am today with a great wife who knows and lets me dabble and a great 15 year old daughter. If I had the looks and body to pull it off I would in a heart beat. I would love to be perceived as sexy, seductive or just plain HOT!!! LOL

[Sarah Doepner]

I don't make many comments on photos these days. I found I was responding to those that were the most convincing and not to those that would pass like I do, and that's marginally at best. I try to be polite and offer constructive comments but was always afraid of hurting someone's feelings.

It makes me think that maybe we just don't want to be ignored, and polite but negative feedback is better than silence or false praise.

[Karren H]

I pretty much stopped commenting because I tend to be too damn honest....though I do look at a few.... especially the ones that proclaim how amazingly sexy they are... lol. And I rarely post photos any more.... I'm over me... I don't need to hear how hot I look 400 times... cause I know differently... sigh.....

[Samantha Jane]

About 3 or so years ago, a post on 'show your legs in a short skirt' or some such name that ran for ever. I posted quite a few pic's on that, but to me it was just a bit of fun. Some girls took it a little more seriously and I do think some valued the feedback. At least everyone who posted on the thread got one comment. As the girl who started the thread, kindly made a point to comment to each picture.
I suppose it had some merit, but at least with that thread makeup was not an issue.

[Shananigans]

I don't need to hear how hot I look 400 times... cause I know differently... sigh.....

You are your worst critic, I guarantee it.

[Marleena]

You are your worst critic, I guarantee it.

I agree.. Karren you're a hottie, and a modest one at that!:)

[Karren H]

I agree.. Karren you're a hottie, and a modest one at that!:)

I'll believe that only if you repeated it 399 more times! :D

[Marleena]

I'll believe that only if you repeated it 399 more times! :D

At my typing speed that will take a few days. I'll open up notepad and get started.:)

[drag n fly]

I pretty much stopped commenting because I tend to be too damn honest....though I do look at a few.... especially the ones that proclaim how amazingly sexy they are... lol. And I rarely post photos any more.... I'm over me... I don't need to hear how hot I look 400 times... cause I know differently... sigh.....
I miss your picture posts, Karren...I think you're one of the most attractive, funny people here..Please post a few new pictures once in awhile..Smooches Jackie

[Shananigans]

Marleena, I think you have to also understand that there are just as many people here to only look at pictures as there are people that just post pictures. I try to make it a point to go look at the picture gallery every once in a while...but, I don't like answering a lot of the questions there. People complain about the absence of GGs in that area, so I try to make it a point every once in a while. I also don't really like accidentally running across people half-dressed in "sexy" attire. I don't mind looking at pics of people and commenting on their outfits. But, you are right that a lot of pics are of "sexy" pictures, and they get the most attention. I've noticed that sometimes bravery and sexiness are misplaced...people that might look pretty good in sexy clothes often aren't posting them on an online picture forms. :shutup: THERE! I SAID IT! There are a few people that I can think of that would probably look really good in sexy clothes...but, I haven't stumbled upon any pictures like that of them. So, the people that should often don't...and the people that do often shouldn't. And, I HATE saying that. So, I love fashion and outfits...I look at magazines for that very reason. But, I'm often a little scared to click. And, I'm not saying that everyone who has posted a "sexy pic" left me thinking, "Oh, wow...you shouldn't have done that." It's just that it happened a few times, and so I started avoiding it all together. There could be a lot of lovely people on that thread...but, I wouldn't know about it since I just started doing things PM.

I solved this problem though...My friends that I love commenting to and checking out their outfits usually just PM me when they post a picture thread. So, then, I check them out and have fun commenting. Also, GGs get mixed reception...I'm never sure how my opinion will be received...so, I often am not as constructive as I could be to people who I don't really talk to on here. My opinion versus a CDs opinion on what is fashionable and looks good is often a little different. So, I'm never sure if my presence is good or bad in that area.

But, for what it counts...from the picture you have posted, you are always very tastefully dressed and look very put together. I can tell that you take a lot of time, and so you look well-manicured.

[Roni Lynn 68]

Very well said Shananigans. You have said a lot of truths. It is good to hear from GG's on this subject. Your thougts have a lot of weight in several CD's lives.

[Lorileah]

I posted when I first joined because I wanted people to see what I looked like. I even posted a male photo (which is on here somewhere if anyone needs to look but you have to find it). I like when someone tells me I look good but like Karren I don't buy it all the time (but I don't need 400 posts either). I post pictures now if they go with an event or the thread. You all have seen enough of me that I don't need to post every new dress. Besides there is like a 5 picture limit a week and it would take me two years to show every outfit and then there are the combinations. As for the age crap...
I don't really care what others think I should wear. If you don't want to see me in a mini and heels look elsewhere. When I dress I dress to get attention.

I don't comment on photos often and especially not on the people who post weekly in the same pose and really don't change (even if the look is good, the same pose and make up tell me you are not trying to get on with it). I also usually am #639 in seeing the photo and there are so many time 638 people can say "You look great". If you ask for critique and I have an idea, I will post it. If it just says "Here I am again" I may not see a need. But like Karren, if you ask for a critique and you look bad (lime green tights, pink tutu, red 6" pumps, your wig just out of the UPS box and makeup by paint roller) you better be ready for me to tell you it is bad. I am honest but not as brutal as Karren ;)

[Marleena]

@ Shana

Thanks for your input. I think you're right on GG's needing to be careful on how they respond in there. I think any MTF would take to heart any comment made by a GG to their pictures as gospel. I wasn't fishing for compliments but thank you very much.:)

[Shananigans]

If you ask for critique and I have an idea, I will post it. If it just says "Here I am again" I may not see a need. But like Karren, if you ask for a critique and you look bad (lime green tights, pink tutu, red 6" pumps, your wig just out of the UPS box and makeup by paint roller) you better be ready for me to tell you it is bad. I am honest but not as brutal as Karren ;)

I might just have to look at the picture gallery to find Karren's posts lol.

But, to be honest...I really think it sucks to get critiqued. When I post pictures on Facebook (which, I just realized that most my pics there are over a year old wtf)...they are usually just ones people tag me in, or if I am doing something fun. (We can now assume that my friends never take any pictures of me and I never do anything fun...and, this is probably true lol). I would DIE if someone were like, "Yeaaaaaah....Shan...I think you might want to rethink that whole outfit. Maybe rethink that eye makeup. In fact, rethink your life, because that whole look is wrong." It's mean! I usually post a pic in my avatar or profile pic after Cami and I have spent waaaaaay too much time in front of the mirror, and I am thinking, "Oh yeah...I look good here." On one hand, I am totally not brave enough to start a thread asking for people what they think about how I look. But, on another hand, I recognize that I post pictures of myself because I think I look good in them and it makes me feel good when I am validated.

I do think that if you post a picture thread asking for opinions, you have to accept the good and the bad. But, I also recognize that a lot of people here aren't confidant in their looks as it is. Maybe in that pic (that turned out bad), they threw their whole heart into it and really thought they looked sexy. Maybe, they were willing to take the risk of negative comments in hopes to just get a few comments that they look good. So, this just makes me sad.

When I posted a lot of pics on my Myspace, Photobook (or, whatever the f*ck it was called), and even HERE in the albums...it was because I wasn't that confidant. I actually needed some sort of validation. In my mind, I was big as a house...and, I needed to be told I was still pretty. Somewhere along the line, I lost all of the weight I needed and gained my own confidence. Thus, I don't really have that many pictures that I post. But, it's still nice to hear that you are pretty...and, it's never fun to hear when you fail.

Do people HONESTLY want to know when they don't look good??? I wouldn't. I still like to give constructive criticism...but, I would never be the person to be like, "Wtf were you thinking here?!?" I know how it feels to feel bad about yourself, and it's easy for me to imagine most people here already feel pretty bad about themselves. (It's written all over this site). Me feeling good about myself was a treadmill and a salad away...hoorah, it's fixed. But, a lot of people here just don't have a lot of options or easy fixes.

Maybe I should've posted this in the other photo thread. IDK.

[Tracii G]

Well said Shan.
Some post pics to get approval I guess on an outfit or make up nothing wrong with that.
If you ask for criticism be ready to take it, there are plenty here that will give it good or bad and thats fine.Just don't get butt hurt when you get a reply you don't like.
The "sexy" pics are fine but not my thing so I don't comment.
I'm always fine with constructive criticism and give it sometimes usually wig related.Not meant in a mean way but I'm sure some may take it that way.I got that when I first came here and it helped.
I will put this out here Karren's comments to me years ago were a huge help in my coming to grips with who I was and I will be forever grateful for her responses.Thank you Ms Hutton.

[Babette]

[QUOTE=Marleena;2908402
...So why do you post pictures? What motivates you to comment? What makes you just look? ...
[/QUOTE]

I rarely post my pictures anymore. Maybe I'm lazy or too critical of myself when taking self portraits. I would rather be outside photographing a beautiful sunrise or a breathtaking panorama than myself.

There are all sorts of reasons why people may post their pictures. Most do not get my comment because I cannot dedicate the time to it. A great many do deserve some feedback though. However, when I do have the time and I sense that someone has put a lot of effort into the photos, I will offer them all of my encouragement. People endure a lot of stress over posting their pictures. I do appreciate their contributions.

I often just look because that's usually all the time I have to spare. Can you imagine what this forum would be without the gallery?

Babette

[BRANDYJ]

Good thread Marleena. I look at most posted pictures. If I see something I like in that picture, I comment. No, not just the sexy ones. But the pictures where the poses are natural looking, or the person is either pretty, cute, natural, or otherwise good looking. When I view pictures that do not appeal to me, I don't comment for fear of hurting someone's feelings. I defiantly do not comment on any pictures that do not show the face. I just don't like any pictures with the face smudged out or taken from the neck down. I'm not here to make someone feel good about their picture if I have to lie about it and tell them it's great when I don't think so.

I used to take tons of pictures of myself when I was younger. Back in the day when we did not have digital cameras or video cameras. I remember taking them in to be developed and hope the clerk at the drug store did not view them. So I mostly sent them away to be developed. I even went to the trouble of setting up a dark room with enlarger so I could process my own black and white pictures. When I think of the money I spent on cameras, tripods, enlarger, lenses etc. I have to chuckle. Now that I have a digital camera, photo programs on my computer, I rarely even take anymore pictures. To be honest, I just don't like the way I look now at my age as when I was just 10 years younger.

[Kate Simmons]

Was never really that interested in posting pics or even looking at other people as it really has nothing to do with how I feel about myself. I guess getting visual input is good for research when trying out a new look, however. That is why I have pics of various women with different looks around my dresser mirror. I've been looking more recently and honestly making positive comments sometimes.:)

[Julogden]

I only post pictures in response to a thread that I find interesting. I will never post the "before and after" type as I deplore anyone knowing what the other part of me looks like.
As for the short skirt/high heels shots ... well, no one really wants to look at us old broads do they???

Yep, couldn't agree more. ;)

When I was young, pretty and looking for validation, I took quite a few photos even though it was a lot more difficult to take photos without letting your secret out, as film had to be sent away for developing, so at least a few other people would see them.

Back then, long before the Internet, I had real penpals I met through Tri-Ess and Empathy Press magazines. Exchanging messages was a bit slow, but it was always a thrill to get a letter from another CD friend, usually with a few photos. ;)

Carol

[Lorileah]

:hiding:*Just to be clear, I have never seen Karren say anything bad about anyone on any social media site...Karren is one of the kindest sweetest people you would ever meet...or cybermeet.

Can I come out now Karren?

[lauren_m]

Shan: Great, insightful comments as usual. Always appreciate what you have to offer. I am in the "shouldn't" category, as you've defined it, and sure enough, I've been tempted to post a couple of pics that should best remain on my computer. Not that they're not crude or overly revealing, but still, I "shouldn't" :)

Marleena: Interesting topic! When I posted my pic thread, I don't think I was motivated by a need for validation or even for compliments (which is a good thing, seeing as they weren't all that abundant :) -- though I did sincerely appreciate each and every one I received), but more as a tiny step out of the closet. Yes, it's only via pictures into a somewhat gated nook of the Internet, but it was liberating, and really a big moment in my life. If I were one of the "hot young girls" of which you speak, and received a lot of kudos, maybe there would be more to it for me -- I don't know -- but it's really just a way for me to open the drapes a little and let in some light.

[Heather Daniels]

I used to post my pics here for personal validation. It's nice hearing compliments on your look, even if you don't believe them all. It's also nice to get an idea of what some of the other members look like. Makes the whole internet thing a bit more personal. I have since stopped posting pics, and have removed all the ones that I previously posted, except for the one in my profile. Honestly, I just don't feel comfortable putting myself in situations that I can't control. Remember...... ANYONE can see the MTF section, not just members. I do wonder what motivates some members to constantly post new pics every week, yet NEVER contribute in any other way here. :confused3:

[Marleena]

I do wonder what motivates some members to constantly post new pics every week, yet NEVER contribute in any other way here. :confused3:

Heather that baffles me too! :)

[Shananigans]

I do wonder what motivates some members to constantly post new pics every week, yet NEVER contribute in any other way here. :confused3:

Is it really that surprising when people act selfish? Or, want all the attention and praise without the possibility that maybe someone else wants a compliment?

I do think it can be forced though...like sometimes I'll get complimented by someone while I am out, and I feel a little obligated to compliment them back. But, I don't want it to be forced and half-hearted....so, I don't compliment back...but, then, I worry that I seem self-centered. Does anyone else do this lol? I think that I think too much about things. But, if someone compliments you on a picture...do you feel obligated to compliment them back? I guess the people in question don't...and, you could say maybe they don't want it to be forced. But, if they never pay anyone else a compliment...well...they're probably the center of their own universe and you are just an extra to their leading performance. I feel like a lot of people are like this though...I'm guilty of it 90% of the time. (I think it's an only-child thing lol..or, that's what I tell myself to feel better about myself again).

[Heather Daniels]

Shan, I understand how you feel when receiving compliments, but just because one was received, doesn't mean one needs to be returned. A simple " thanks Im glad you like it" would probably suffice. Concerning the ones who constantly post pics and don't contribute in any other way: I think they have the " look at me" mentality. Of course some members will gush all over them with "so sexy...so passable " remarks ( whether deserved or not) and it fuels the posters ego and leads to the next weeks round of pix.

[Barbara Ella]

Excellent thread, and some outstanding responses. I hope everyone just joining this forum will stop by and read and take the hint to participate on more than just pics. You never know when someone's words will strike a nerve with someone and motivate them.

I have only been a crossdresser/transgendered girl for ten months. I started from scratch here on this forum. I was way too shy ( and so not capable) for posting, but I read threads, and saw the pictures, and gained confidence to try, and while I pretty much sucked, I posted the new things i did. My main hope was another new dresser (not the older ones just joining the forum) would see an old broad just beginning and decide they could do the same or better and not feel any guilt or shame of who they were.

My pics posting have gone way down as, like others have said as they know who they are, and fel no need to just post variations on a theme over and over. My theme is gelling - an old broad who is settling into it and is happy. I hope that everyone who wants to keeps posting pics. i enjoy looking at them, and find many to comment on and provide encouragement. They will encourage our inexperienced members to try to reach their potential, regardless of level.

Barbara

[Heather Daniels]

I hope no one misunderstood me and thought that I was against posting pictures. Quite the contrary. It's interesting seeing the changes and advancements of members. My comments were aimed at the ones who do nothing but post pics. Barb, trust me, I know how difficult it is to throw that very first femme pic of yourself out for all to see. It takes guts and I truely appreciate that, unless of course, the poster made little attempt to try and look good. ie: " I didnt do my makeup and couldnt be bothered putting my wig on but what do you all think"?
Well....honestly I think you look like a dude in a dress.

[BLUE ORCHID]

Hi Marleena, Everyone just wants a little reasureance.

[Sherlyn]

I think its fun to share the other side of me and the adventures Di and I have ....why did they make camera's eh ...lol ...its just a fun thing ...I dont look for approval from anyone..does it actually matter ? ..it's just cool we can catch a glimpse of our crazy lives thru sharing on this board ..Don't think we will ever all be in a room together.....so whats the next best thing to see Who We Are ...The Photo Gallery :D...hmmmmm that's my section here..and many years making it happen ...so..Let's Keep It Rockin :D..Have Fun Post Your Pics
This is not a paid advertisement from the the Gallery Mods...hee heee :p

[Juliana Hart]

Great question. I post a pic from time to time, mostly for a progress check without getting judged. I appreciate the comments but I certainly don't post and EXPECT comments. If someone feels like commenting, great, if they don't, that's fine too. It drives me crazy to see some really expecting comments. I get it, we're all at different levels of needing validation. But great question.

Juli

[Thera Home]

Hello Ladies
In the beginning when I joined I was all giddy and wanted show some of me to you all and after reviewing many pix threads...saying "How beautiful everyone looked" was fast becoming repetitious. So Ill lurk sometimes but Its not a big slice of my formum visits anymore. Plus since I told my wife about my CDing, one of the agreements was no more pix of me on this website.
Sorry......not that you'll miss them or anything like that of course. Maybe Ill get her to agree on one with old and worn out slippers and rolled down knee highs.:heehee:

Love you all

Thera

[EllieOPKS]

Ever notice how the hot young girls get lots of comments to their pictures? It's quite common from what I've seen. The sexier you look the more comments too, high heels, short skirts and good makeup skills get more interest.
I
I think the answer to your question above is pretty simple. No matter how much I enjoy dressing up, I am still a guy. Not a girl in a guys body...a guy. If someone looks very attractive as a girl, even though I know they are a guy, I will look and enjoy and there are a lot of us that go into guy mode when looking at pics. My rule of thumb has always been if there is more than 2 pages of comments, I will not respond. If someone looks like a troll, I will not respond to that pic either.

[lingerieLiz]

Well actually we are our own worst critic. We are used to seeing our selves in the mirror which is a reverse image. When we see ourselves in a picture it looks different from what we are used to becaue it is not reversed.

Also young atractive GGs get more noticed than older women. So why would it be different on here. I looked a lot better when I was young and didn't have sunspots, saging, ... , all those other things. I did pass in my 20s, but today I look like an aged old something depending on how nice the other people are.

I don't post pictures because I don't like them. Actually had some from when I was young, but can't find them.

[AllieSF]

I think people post a lot of pics in order to share, to receive nice comments when they know that they will based on previous experiences, to contribute a pic that may be relevant to a specific topic, for vanity reasons, to receive helpful comments and sometimes even critical ones, for whatever other reasons that are valid to the poster. I look at all the pics and post to that pic thread or even a non-pic thread when I feel like it. Which pics do I like the most? The ones that look the best. Why do the young good looking and maybe even sexy pics get most of the attentions? Well, Ellie answers that quite well, and for me I do not get anything out of a bad pic. I am glad everyone posts their pics. I enjoy most of them. I am a visual person who looks at pics and then reads the article, a la Playboy, fashion magazines, the now defunct Life and Look magazines, and on and on. I see nothing wrong with someone posting pics for whatever reason and I feel good looking at all the pics, even the ones that don't make the grade.

Marleena, I now you have a great heart, but if I was a sensitive person who posts a lot of pics, I may be hesitant to post in the future after reading this thread. Some of the comments actually sound critical or borderline critical of some pics and the people the post them. Some people may not like the sexier type of pics of a man dressed or semi-dressed as a woman looking or trying to look sexy. But to me, we all come to this site for different reasons. It is well run and moderated and offers a little something for everyone. I would guess that for a lot of people, including me sometimes when I post a rare pic or two in someone else's thread, it also makes us pic posters feel good about ourselves in that moment, whether we just want to share or are showing off in a way because that pic makes us personally feel good in some way. I would prefer that we encourage people to post for whatever reason. It just helps to take the edge off some of the more serious threads. Whether a person posts only pics and then disappears until the next photo session is not a problem for me and should not be judged as a problem by others. That is not our role here.

PS: Then we have the threads that question why some people don't post pics of themselves, blur or cut off their heads or do not have pics of themselves in their avatars. Maybe all this is what makes this site interesting?

[betty1253]

Why do I post pictures? Why not? I take pictures of lots of things, flowers, beer bottles, trees, wine glasses, bugs, life. It just seems natural to share some of my life with you.

Also after years of sitting on the fence, too scared to post a picture, after the non-event of posting the first one, it just seems natural to post some more.

JMHO.


Betty

[Candice Mae]

I have been posting mostly pictures lately in the young members section. I try and contribute to other conversations when I can, but it's been slow over there. Also I don't like reposting the same info in a thread if a member has already made a similar reply to what I would have. So that cuts down on my posting as well. Also when I do post pictures I try and change things up as much as I can so I'm not posting the same pictures over and over.

Also as some one that's considering starting transitioning, I am looking for opinons on how I look. Not that I would make my decision on some ones post, it's nice to have an outsiders views.

[Traceyjo]

When I dress and am happy with the way I look, I want as many people as possible to see me. As much as I'd love to go waltzing down the street in the broad daylight I'm not up to that degree of exposure so posting pics on the net is my next best option. Of course I'm looking for compliments or even just comments and hoping to receive lots of them just to know that you have looked at me.

[Marleena]

I think people post a lot of pics in order to share, to receive nice comments when they know that they will based on previous experiences, to contribute a pic that may be relevant to a specific topic, for vanity reasons, to receive helpful comments and sometimes even critical ones, for whatever other reasons that are valid to the poster. Marleena, I now you have a great heart, but if I was a sensitive person who posts a lot of pics, I may be hesitant to post in the future after reading this thread. Some of the comments actually sound critical or borderline critical of some pics and the people the post them. Some people may not like the sexier type of pics of a man dressed or semi-dressed as a woman looking or trying to look sexy. But to me, we all come to this site for different reasons. It is well run and moderated and offers a little something for everyone. I would guess that for a lot of people, including me sometimes when I post a rare pic or two in someone else's thread, it also makes us pic posters feel good about ourselves in that moment, whether we just want to share or are showing off in a way because that pic makes us personally feel good in some way. I would prefer that we encourage people to post for whatever reason. It just helps to take the edge off some of the more serious threads. Whether a person posts only pics and then disappears until the next photo session is not a problem for me and should not be judged as a problem by others. That is not our role here.

PS: Then we have the threads that question why some people don't post pics of themselves, blur or cut off their heads or do not have pics of themselves in their avatars. Maybe all this is what makes this site interesting?


Hi Allie, I was not trying to stop or discourage people from posting pictures. I was questioning motives. The feedback has been great and you raised a good point we should post pictures.

Did you know that I thank everyone that leaves me a comment? It is usually on their profile page so I don't keep my thread going longer than need be. I think we need to keep in mind that everyone is busy and they do us favor when they comment. I remember the people that leave me a comment and do the same for them.

If somebody is just looking for compliments for their pictures and ignoring everybody else I will eventually ignore that poster.

[Curelle05]

I am just a looker, for now. I consider myself new to crossdressing, although I have done it privately since a child. I find that much like Barbara, the pictures on this forum have given me the confidence to try. The pictures on this forum are of all the shapes, sizes, and ages that one would expect in a diverse community. The pictures show that crossdressing can be done, in varying degrees of success, and that there is no standard mold. You can read statistics and personal stories, but pictures speak volumes. They are an excellent tool of motivation both for the taker and the viewer.

And yes, if I post my picture, I fully expect to get some constructive criticism (what I need) and some validation like “damn girl, what’s your number?” (what I think we all hope for).

[Kate Simmons]

Marleena, Just a FYI. When I make positive comments about someone en femme, it's mostly because I think they look nice enough that I would ask them out as Richard. What that means is I think they look very attractive.:)

[Kate T]

I think I've posted one picture here and a couple on another (Oz based) forum.
I'm just not a big photo taking person. I'm more living the moment so to speak and half the time end up going, "damn, should have taken a photo!".
Also I'm incredibly conceited and really couldn't give a toss what you guy's think about how I look. No offense intended. :D

Oh, and the whole lingerie picture thing. I DON'T GET IT!!! I love lingerie, love the feel, blah blah, what girl doesn't. It makes you feel special. But I look but awful in it, and I very much doubt I would be even vaguely attractive to women in lingerie if I was even vaguely interested in attracting attention and looking "sexy" for anyone other than my wife. So I don't get the "heterosexual" crossdresser who posts photos of himself in lingerie so what, he gets compliments of "very sexy" from other men, who, he is supposedly not sexually interested in? Like I said, just don't get it.

[Marleena]

Marleena, Just a FYI. When I make positive comments about someone en femme, it's mostly because I think they look nice enough that I would ask them out as Richard. What that means is I think they look very attractive.:)

That's fine too Kate.:)

I'm sure we have Cd admirers that lurk but don't comment in that section. It's all part of the big picture (pun intended).

[RenneB]

Oh Marleena, you always bring up good topics to chat about... I used to take a lot of 'trophy' pics. You know, you get all dressed up and head on out to the store, mall or where ever and snap a photo to prove that you did it. Now a days, I've gotten so used to gettin out and about that I forget or don't even bother with the camera anymore... Oh I'll take the odd photo or two before I go out to make sure that I didn't miss anything but that's about it...

I'll still take and post a pic about being out and about in hopes of giving other girls on this site the motivation to get out of the house. Kind of like a little boost of confidence... which is what I got when I first joined here. All I needed was a little boost and .....walaaaa... I'm out, kind of, actually just out and about but carrying the closet ....

Renne.....

[Cindy J Angel]

Marleena i get it to, I thank that some get more post then outhers. And we all went to have that one person say that we look good even if we dont. (we all went to be told that we look like woman) To have that validation. Me Too, and i have posted pic to have critiqued, and only have had min post most time from outhers that post all the time to me and i love them thay are my bf on hear. thanks girls,,, I post some times and do try to b nice and give good help, and if i cant i just do not post. I love this site and only post some time but read a lot cant spell that good and that keeps my post down. I am getting to the place were i do not have to have that validation. I look like i look and that is ok with me. I go out derss and do pass some times and do not in outher times as soon as i give then my id for whataver thay know.. I even had a gay ask me if that was my husben i said NO that would b me Mill id at lows got to get that dicount u know us ladys.LOL the hole time he was saying he was sorry. ( i bet he had somethink to talk about at home that night.lol) LV cindy

[suzy1]

I just like to show off. Simple as that.:)

What’s all the fuss about?:strugglin

[Marleena]

I just like to show off. Simple as that.:)

What’s all the fuss about?:strugglin

Well at least you admit it Suzy! :D


You can show off anytime you want because you've left me nice comments on my pics.:)

[ReineD]

Remember...... ANYONE can see the MTF section, not just members. I do wonder what motivates some members to constantly post new pics every week, yet NEVER contribute in any other way here. :confused3:

The public cannot see the Gallery. You should log out and look at the Index page to see our four sections that are viewable by the public. :)

As to the members who constantly post pics of themselves and don't participate otherwise, I should think they are engaging in their own brand of CDing, which consists of nothing more than getting dressed and taking pics.

[Heather Daniels]

I'm aware that the public cannot see the photo gallery, thats why I stated MTF section. If you have an avatar and post in the public sections, then anybody and everybody can see it. Also, if you should post a pic in any public section then it's fair game for the world to see. Just sayin.......

[ReineD]

I'm aware that the public cannot see the photo gallery, thats why I stated MTF section. If you have an avatar and post in the public sections, then anybody and everybody can see it. Also, if you should post a pic in any public section then it's fair game for the world to see. Just sayin.......

Sorry, I misunderstood. The M2F section has four subsections, only one of which is viewable by the public.

I always assumed that the people who are not interested in having their likeness attached to a CD forum, do not use pics of themselves as avatars, nor do they post pics outside of the Gallery or the GM section.

[Kaz]

My take on the last few comments is that I have an picture of 'me' as an avatar... it is my choice and I am comfortable with that, as I am with my ever changing profile pics. But the other pics I post in the Gallery I have assumed to be members only. So I don't have a problem with that either?

Why do I post? I want feedback on how I am doing as I get (what I hope is) better at this transformation thing. These days I think I am getting worse, but that is a different thread! But I want to know that my efforts are paying off?

Then again, there is vanity... I want you to think I look good, because that is self-valedictory... and that gives me 'permission'.

But at the end of the day I just want the rest of the community to see what I am up to...

I haven't posted pics for a while because I haven't had the opportunity. Our personal circumstances do not always permit it.

But I think I contribute in other ways.

We all contribute to this forum in different ways... I am cool with that..

xx

[Heather Daniels]

I used to use a face pic of myself as an avatar. I also had many other pictures of myself on different threads. Awhile back I just became uncomfortable doing that. I dont really know why, but I did, so they all got removed. Probably because of the internal conflict that I deal with on a daily basis, or fear of being discovered. Honestly I wish I still felt comfortable showing you all who Heather is because it's nice having an image to associate with a name. I may become comfortable again in the future.....but that remains to be seen.

[Kaz]

Hey Heather, we all go through these points... I just hope you are okay within yourself? Friend calling!

[Heather Daniels]

Thanks Kaz, I appreciate that. To be perfectly honest, I'm not ok within myself anymore. I don't know who or what I am lately , but thats probably something I should ponder in a new thread?

[msginaadoll]

I think people post for different reasons. Some to let people know who they are- what they look like, others for ego. It can be a real boost to se those numbers at the posting or probably be a ego crusher if nobody responds. As for me I have stopped posting pics for now cause I just look like me. I dont look any different and never could figure out how to pose. If im out with others Im generally having fun so dont think to take time to get pics. But then everyone is different.

[Sherlyn]

Well at least you admit it Suzy! :D


You can show off anytime you want because you've left me nice comments on my pics.:)
From a moderating view Marleena ..are you saying ..If you comment on me ...I'll comment on you ..just curious ...:)

[Marleena]

From a moderating view Marleena ..are you saying ..If you comment on me ...I'll comment on you ..just curious ...:)

Um kinda.. :) Was actually kidding with Suzy. However.. I got tired of leaving comments for everybody. I enjoy your pictures Sher so I usually leave a comment for you. Any brownie points?:D

[suzy1]

Um kinda.. :) Was actually kidding with Suzy. However.. I got tired of leaving comments for everybody. I enjoy your pictures Sher so I usually leave a comment for you. Any brownie points?:D

Yes Sherlyn, we are just having fun. Go easy on the poor girl.

[monika]

I am one of those guilty of mostly just posting photothreads in the picture gallery.
Guess the reason is the ego boost of getting nice feedback.

Here and Flickr is the only places I share Monika since I am in the closet so it is like I need to post some pics every now and then to keep Monika "alive" sort of..Stupid I know but:)
Never felt that good about my looks so that might also be a reason.

I`m also not very good at checking other peoples threads, and I feel bad for that really since there are so many gorgeous CD`s here!
Also people here are very nice, don`t think I have ever gotten any negative comments at all..

[Marleena]

I am one of those guilty of mostly just posting photothreads in the picture gallery.
Guess the reason is the ego boost of getting nice feedback.

Here and Flickr is the only places I share Monika since I am in the closet so it is like I need to post some pics every now and then to keep Monika "alive" sort of..Stupid I know but:)
Never felt that good about my looks so that might also be a reason.

I`m also not very good at checking other peoples threads, and I feel bad for that really since there are so many gorgeous CD`s here!
Also people here are very nice, don`t think I have ever gotten any negative comments at all..

Huhhh? never felt good about your looks? You are so convincing girl!!

Post away Monika!:)

[rick.redmond]

I am one of those guilty of mostly just posting photothreads in the picture gallery.
Guess the reason is the ego boost of getting nice feedback.

Here and Flickr is the only places I share Monika since I am in the closet so it is like I need to post some pics every now and then to keep Monika "alive" sort of..Stupid I know but:)
Never felt that good about my looks so that might also be a reason.

I`m also not very good at checking other peoples threads, and I feel bad for that really since there are so many gorgeous CD`s here!
Also people here are very nice, don`t think I have ever gotten any negative comments at all..

You're the reason why I joined this nice forum. I love your pics on Flickr and wanted to follow you and see/know more about you.
:-)