What do you think?

While so many guys prefer to use any kind of unique image as their avatar, I guess it would be much nicer to post a photo of ourselves. At least the others know how we look like like when it comes to endless intelligent debate, chess knowledge contributions, cheating and so on

You might not believe it, but this is a picture of me!

 

Ah, to be 10 again... 

i agree :) i like photos, but not everyone is as... photogenic? :P

i just choose an avatar that expresses me!  :)

I disagree.  If I'm playing against someone in an online chess match, I don't particularly care what they look like nor am I interested in seeing their face.  That's precisely what the photo albums are for.  I think the avatars should be used as a way to put up a picture of something that represents you; it's a good form of expression.  For instance, if anyone knew what my avatar was they would be able to figure out a couple of things about me, whereas an actual picture of me doesn't tell anyone anything.  A lot of people here use it to good effect- cheater for instance has one that suits him pretty well.  In contrast on other websites such as Facebook I'll use a photo of me because there's actually reason to.

well, this is just an idea. If accepted is great, otherwise is good too.

My avatar is a pic of me, but I agree with leaving things as they are. Everyone should be able to represent themselves any way they want.

 

--Fromper 

I did have a pic of the real me, but the women wouldnt leave me alone so I changed it!

 This is very interesting.  It's a matter of individual preference isnt it.  After reading some of the responses I think I will change my pic.  I agree with Baliguide.