questioning looks

    • 36 posts
    August 15, 2010 5:18 PM BST
    I am wondering why in the forums or chat room that some ladies decide to not post their picture on here? I would think that this would be a good enough site that even if you were a member although I am not yet, that you would be able to see who they are by their photo verses just a picture in its place. It is ok if they feel insecure but I just thought that they might like to be more open. On another note would someone be able to tell me what other sites there would be out there that are similar to this one?

    nathan
    • 252 posts
    August 16, 2010 4:39 PM BST
    Some girls want to come here and just be themselves without posting their pic. Some may have jobs that they don't want to be fired from. I know girls who have gotten fired for being trans, I'm sure that the same thing could happen to cross-dressers who dress when they can.

    Of course the other reason is lack of confidence in how they look, which is understandable. I've been on HRT for five years, I have had FFS and I pass very well. I am 44, and many people say I look like I'm in my mid 30's. I'm not bragging, the reason I mentioned that is so I can say that despite all the work I've had and how long I've been on HRT, young, crazy attractive girls, like Cristine intimidate me with their beauty. But with me? My vanity overpowers everything.

    This is just my experience, but it might have something to do with something.

    Z
    • 746 posts
    August 16, 2010 7:39 PM BST
    I was "outed" from this site...net result is loss of friendship from half my extended family...BUT, I wouldn't change a thing as I was trying to open up to them first about 22 months ago as it was...turns out they are cement heads....at this point in my life, I do not concern myself at all with anybody learning about me...most are looking at me weirdly now anyways as I've shed 40 pounds, gone from macho male look to soft androgyny, body completely shaved, long nails and hair, etc...just a matter of time before they eventually say "about time she dressed nicer", which will happen within 3 years time after I remove hairs with electrolysis...

    So if you are really paranoid about someone "discovering" your little secret, then maybe you don't post a pic...but I do think it is nice to see what the other girls look like! I especially hope to pick up on fashion, hairstyles, and makeup....

    Traci xxxx
    • 746 posts
    August 17, 2010 1:05 PM BST
    (smile) Vogue hasn't offered a contract to ANY of us to the best of my knowledge! Don't fret it...

    Traci xxxx
    • 1912 posts
    August 17, 2010 2:12 PM BST
    I enjoy seeing photos but I am quite alright with the cartoon caricatures. I think when someone takes the time to put something up or at least asks how to do it, they are showing that they really have a legitimate interest in this site. I think many of the "new" members that never put a picture up are actually people coming to the site hoping to find porn and that is why you rarely see their names on "Who's online now". They get their basic membership and when they still can't find pics, they are gone.

    I think cartoon caricatures are an excellent way for those who live a dual life and would like to keep their life private. Personally I would much rather see a creative caricature than some model's picture of who they are not.

    So Nathan, you need to understand we have a wide variation of individuals here at GS. What unites us is "transgender." Some are variations of transgender like crossdressers and transsexuals, but others are admirers or family and friends. Along with GS needing to be a safe place for our community to provide support and social functions, each member's right to privacy also needs to be respected.

    Hugs,
    Marsha
    • 252 posts
    August 17, 2010 4:33 PM BST
    Cris,

    I do remember you because you are very intelligent, witty and kind. The beauty thing is just an extra. However, remember how powerful a beautiful face really is. Hell, I went from ugly to sort of cute and THAT made me heady with power!! LOL With tongue in cheek,

    Z

    PS- For no reason whatsoever I'd like to be on the cover of "High Times."
  • August 17, 2010 11:29 PM BST
    I can only tell you from my own experience. I t was many many years before i ever had a camera or a chance to have a picture taken.
    Now i have lots of pictures to share. lol
    • 171 posts
    August 18, 2010 9:05 AM BST
    You can control the level of exposure I think. I know from my own experience that when I posted new photographs recently - this time without the illusion of a wig, I was significantly more anxious about the image portrayed. If you knew me, you'd spot me, whereas before I may have avoided detection. I do feel less comfortable now, because of that risk not because I have any desire not to communicate with GS members. Other girls experience of being outer by this site utter a word of caution, but I think it's correct not to insist. Rachel
  • August 20, 2010 12:56 AM BST
    I havehad issues posting my pic here and other sites at first. I was very scared for both being "outed" and because of how I looked. Now my look is fairly regular and mostly the same, hey it is me now! I am quite comfortable with how I look but of cousre I still have a long way to go.

    Hugs Brenda
  • September 7, 2010 2:46 PM BST
    Are we ever really comfortable with the way we lookI'm always trying new clothes, different hair colors etc to find a look that will overcome my insecurities, but thats for another post.

    I think pictures build confidence and posting here is the worlds best therapy. Hopfully it will lead to going the outside world as your true self.

    Hugs Jen
    • 746 posts
    September 7, 2010 3:37 PM BST
    Like Brenda, I too have an "everyday look", one that I tool about daily...but it is fun to experiment with different styles and colors for sure! (smile)
    • Moderator
    • 2358 posts
    August 16, 2010 5:04 PM BST
    Thankyou zoe,.

    I do get somewhat embarresed about compliments, but would rather people remember me for my wit, sarcasm and my little efforts to help out, rather than my looks which if you read the tribune will explain somewhat how I came to look like I did, and believe me it was hell at school.
    • 1017 posts
    August 16, 2010 8:06 PM BST
    Hi Traci,

    As someone who has just recently posted my first photo (as opposed to my Bill Ward cartoon) it wasn't because I was particularly worried about being outed. I don't have any close family left, my only contact with the rest is pretty much limited to sending flowers to funerals.

    I would just as soon my neighborhood didn't think me anymore weird than they already do - I've had numerous vandalisms of my house, yard and vehicles. As far as I know none of them know I'm TG, most probably think my Androgyny means I'm gay.

    The reason I didn't post a pic was I really didn't have any that I thought I looked good in. You, yourself, said in another thread, "we don't post frumpy pictures of ourselves." (or words to that effect.)

    I finally just got tired of seeing the cartoon....my pic is overexposed, out of focus and not particularly recent - but it is me. Hope to replace it with a better one soon.

    Best,
    Melody

    • 1017 posts
    August 17, 2010 1:42 PM BST
    Hi Traci,

    I was sort of hoping for the cover of Cosmo...

    Best.
    Melody
    • Moderator
    • 2358 posts
    August 17, 2010 4:05 PM BST
    Vogue, cosmo? I was offered the front page of country life, as the arse end of a cow, lol
    • 2573 posts
    September 13, 2010 4:34 PM BST
    I once spent half a day trying to figure out a way to take my picture with a computer camera. Could not get far enough away and push the key at the same time.....then I slept it off.