How does the type of avatar someone chooses effect how you view them? [Archive]

Josephine1012

10-25-2008, 01:16 PM

I quickly jumped on board of putting my actual picture as my avatar trend. I'm really interested to know if the way a person chooses their picture effects how you view them.

Obviously, no matter what picture we put up our personality still stays the same, and what we say in posts will remain similar. But I'm wondering if seeing someone's face changes how you react to those posts.

Do you prefer to remain anonymous or in character, or are we all seeking to get more of our real selves out there? On the flip side of that would you prefer that other's pictures remained anonymous as well, or are you more comfortable seeing what we look like.

Not to put Solaris on the spot, but I've been a lot more intimidated by her since her Halloween avatar switch up :cheesy:

Synamon

10-25-2008, 01:35 PM

I think people were more intimidated of me when I was Lolita with a lollipop than when I became a purple dragon. Ack an INTJ 'girl'. :laugh: Or maybe they were just used to me by then. I admit it's been fun role playing a dragon occasionally. *rawwrrr*

I did have someone tell me that my dragon skeleton avatar for Halloween didn't reflect the 'real' me. Apparently I'm not that scary, sniff. I'm temporarily myself since TLM dared me to put my face up last night when I was under the influence of tequila. I'll change back shortly to the Halloween one, or maybe Lolita would be scarier for Halloween. :scared:

I quite like people using all kinds of different avatars, their choice tells me something about them and it's kind of fun to think of them as a 'character' of some sort.

vanidence

10-25-2008, 01:41 PM

Hm...actually I like the Avatars for identifying the Posts faster and also because I am fascinated by Graphics in general (I love them. Probably more than anything else *lol*).

Besides, it's cool to see other People who have (for Example) Demons or whatever too on their Avas. Makes me assume they either liked the Picture or they like them in General. Just cool to know, I'd say.
In Addiotion, an Avatar can be a nice Help for a starting Talk with the Person. You can write a PM saying "Hey, I really love your Avatar" and then slowly start a good and nice PM-Conversation.

When People have Pictures of themselves on the Avatar, I like to "read them". I have always been quite good at that. Pictures of Persons can make me see how they are, if they had a hard Life or not etc. It's very interesting.

Other then that...I don't judge the Members because of the Avatars. It's more important, what they say and think. Never the less, it is entertaining, interesting, challenging and just an "Eye-Candy". =)

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 01:47 PM

I find the effect of an avatar upon the perception of a post fascinating. I have identified some of my own skewed reactions from the past, some of which have gone away with time, and some of which disappeared with the avatar in question.
Of course it makes perfect sense; when speaking in person, we always take in visual and audible cues to get the best grasp of a comment's meaning. We look at a person's facial expression and listen to his or her voice, and naturally we subconsciously pick up on the "visual cues" when we read posts. An avatar serves as a kind of face, even when it looks nothing like one.

I think I would like it if everyone's avatar was a face. That face need not be that person's actual face; it could be a face that that person feels best represents his persona. I choose to use my own face simply because I don't think there is another image that represents me better. The downside of this is that we all have varying moods, and our posts would not all come with the same expressions or tones if spoken in real life. That means that our avatars, which are usually modeled after our predominant attitudes, will sometimes "contradict" our words.

I predict my new avatar will decrease the instances of other members taking my sarcasm seriously. On the flip side, I think it will increase perceptions of an aura of arrogance or cockiness when I participate in debates, since smirking is a tad out of place in that context.

Ijz

10-25-2008, 01:47 PM

Good question.

Oh I find that the avatar matters quite a bit. For me it's primarily a recognition tool which allows me to scan the threads more quickly. Do I think whether I respond differently to an avatar? Well I don't think I do consciously, but maybe it does affect me subconsciously. I would not be surprised if it did.

I guess that's also the reason I don't use my face as my avatar. Partly because of privacy, partly I think it elicits more objective communication.

Actually, I've recently added someone to my ignore list (for the first time ever) because of his avatar and blatant non constructive remarks. Every time I saw his avatar it invoked an annoyance which I couldn't quite ignore anymore.

jikin

10-25-2008, 01:57 PM

For some reason I tend to not like the real person avatars. On one hand I know that I'm speaking to a real person, on the other hand seeing the real face makes me slightly uncomfortable, but I have no idea as to why.

I doubt I'd ever post the real me as an avatar because I don't like the idea of some random person I know from a forum recognizing me in real life. I really like my privacy.

On the other hand, people who do personally know me who have seen the avatar I use tell me that, though it doesn't physically look like me, it "feels" like me. (It's part of a bigger picture that I strangely identify with on some level)
So perhaps, sometimes, a more anonymous avatar can be more telling of the kind of person your speaking to.

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 02:01 PM

On the other hand, people who do personally know me who have seen the avatar I use tell me that, though it doesn't physically look like me, it "feels" like me.

I still "see" you as your previous avatar. I guess I haven't gotten used to your current one yet.

jikin

10-25-2008, 02:11 PM

I still "see" you as your previous avatar. I guess I haven't gotten used to your current one yet.

I actually got confused the other day when a new person started using it. I was looking a thread and saw the avatar but couldn't remember posting in it. It was slightly surreal for a moment.

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 02:23 PM

I actually got confused the other day when a new person started using it. I was looking a thread and saw the avatar but couldn't remember posting in it. It was slightly surreal for a moment.

I know the feeling.

punkyplatypus

10-25-2008, 02:43 PM

It depends on the avatar and how often I see it, but sometimes avatars have their own voice in my mind On a different message board there's an avatar of a suitcase, which in my mind has a muffled voice coming from out the suitcase. This can definitely change the tone of the posts and intentions I assume the poster has. It's a strange phenomena.

Krazy P

10-25-2008, 03:38 PM

Josephine1012

10-25-2008, 03:54 PM

This is a timely question - especially for me. I am getting a some amount of grief for the photo of me (which hides my face).

I hide my face because of legal/business reasons. I can express opinions here that I would otherwise compromise company policy (legal stuff). In addition, I wouldn't want any comments to cause unnecessary harm to others. In my own little world, I am a bit of a public figure.

My "avatar" is my attempt at artful self-portrait.

So far around 50% HATE it and 50% LOVE it. There seems to be no in between.

I also posted this particular photo to see if it would get a reaction - it certainly is!

I like it, you come off as a very confident and knowledgeable person so I think it suits you really well.

But there is a lot to be said for your avatar having a face at least in the way I perceive things. It feels like it's easier to relate to the poster (this could be just me of course), it doesn't have to be your actual picture. But I tend to humanize posters that have a face a lot more... Is that weird?

Josephine1012 added to this post, 4 minutes and 32 seconds later...

I'm feeling a little insecure about my avatar (this is just a side note, because I'm loving this discussion so don't stop it).... So yey or ney? Was the witch better, I was really partial to the witch :)

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 03:57 PM

So far around 50% HATE it and 50% LOVE it. There seems to be no in between.

I'm in between. On the one hand I would prefer a face, because it's a bit odd talking to a person's abs. On the other, I like your avatar for its own merits (as an artistic portrait), if not specifically as a member's avatar.

I must say you're in great shape for your age, anyway.

TheLastMohican added to this post, 1 minutes and 21 seconds later...

I'm feeling a little insecure about my avatar (this is just a side note, because I'm loving this discussion so don't stop it).... So yey or ney? Was the witch better, I was really partial to the witch :)

I definitely prefer the current one. Actually I found it hard to see the witch you had before; I had to look closely a few times to make sense of it.

PortInStorm

10-25-2008, 03:59 PM

Josephine1012

10-25-2008, 04:03 PM

I think people were more intimidated of me when I was Lolita with a lollipop than when I became a purple dragon.

We all know there is nothing spookier than 14 year old nymphet :)

True Rune

10-25-2008, 04:05 PM

I couldn't tell what Krazy P's was at first actually, I guess I see why it was for a reaction.
I like avatars. It gives us "something" to get "everything". Notice how mine looks away. I would use my own.. but I'm not photogenic.

Ijz

10-25-2008, 04:06 PM

But there is a lot to be said for your avatar having a face at least in the way I perceive things. It feels like it's easier to relate to the poster (this could be just me of course), it doesn't have to be your actual picture. But I tend to humanize posters that have a face a lot more... Is that weird?

Good question, I've wondered about that myself. How does talking to a esscher cube make you feel? And how does it does feel when you imagine that behind that cube is a friendly bloke looking your way?

Solaris

10-25-2008, 04:10 PM

Not to put Solaris on the spot, but I've been a lot more intimidated by her since her Halloween avatar switch up :cheesy:

I think I realized that might happen, though it was certainly not the intent. In person, I'm normally quite genial and laugh a lot -- and not the evil kind of laughter my avatar implies. :P

Josephine1012

10-25-2008, 04:11 PM

I think I realized that might happen, though it was certainly not the intent. In person, I'm normally quite genial and laugh a lot -- and not the evil kind of laughter my avatar implies. :P

Haha, well, I still like ya, I'm just properly scared now (goes well with the season)

LionsPride

10-25-2008, 04:18 PM

Excellent thread, I know the comment of avatars has come up a few times, but this is the first time I've seen a discussion where most of the posts didn't become "I like them so I can find a post" and nothing more.

Avatars impart a lot of things on me and even being aware of their limitations doesn't stop me from projecting it's image over the comments in the post. My first avatar was a playing card, but after a week I realized how much I loved seeing the face avatars because they seemed to amplify the post, especially when the expression matched the intent. I completely agree with you TLM that your new avatar definitely helps in making some of your sarcasm easier to detect, at least easier to those who might not know your posts as well.

I personally prefer the avatars that aren't real faces because they are usually a form of artwork that they chose, your face you're just born with. As jikin said it's an association with the essence of a person, in a larger 'feel' rather than 'look' familiarity. Now, some real faces do have an essence captured in them where they are a face, but not a face. CuriousJane's chin shot tells me something about her other than just her chin features.

Josephine, I have to admit I liked the witch better, because it somehow said more about you then your current one. Not that you don't have a lovely countenance, but the pure ecstatic joy the witch had in that black and white image seemed to come through your posts.

Krazy P, I like your avatar more because it IS you, rather than a generic shot of someone's abs. Based and what you are showing and what you are hiding I always get the feeling you wish you could expose more of yourself, but you feel reservation in exposing all. By exposing the side of your body you show a tender place (as opposed to a shot of your chest) suggesting that you are non-combative in your approach to this forum, but the strength of your body clearly shows that if circumstances change you can be quite and adversary.

*cringes*

Oh know! Now everyone knows how incredibly involved I get with their avatars. :scared:

Josephine1012

10-25-2008, 04:43 PM

Josephine, I have to admit I liked the witch better, because it somehow said more about you then your current one. Not that you don't have a lovely countenance, but the pure ecstatic joy the witch had in that black and white image seemed to come through your posts.

I was kind of thinking of bringing the witch back, I don't really like me in pictures, i always make faces. That's one of the few pics I have where I don't look like I'm high on life (but it's forced because I'm trying not to make a face).

I have to admit, I pay more attention to posts that don't have an avatar than if they have an avatar that I don't like. It's sort of creating a prejudice in my mind.

However, if their post speaks to me the prejudice is gone and I suddenly decide that I like the avatar (even if I absolutely hated it in the first place). I start to see more meaning in it. I guess, it's a lot like communication in real life, if you enjoy someone their looks become more appealing.

Josephine1012 added to this post, 4 minutes and 28 seconds later...

Good question, I've wondered about that myself. How does talking to a esscher cube make you feel? And how does it does feel when you imagine that behind that cube is a friendly bloke looking your way?

I guess, as someone mentioned before, each avatar elicits a voice in my head, I associate a feeling with it. I have a lot of trouble figuring out a voice for yours, so it makes it harder to connect with your posts. Does that make sense?

Feeler in da' house, yo!

Synamon

10-25-2008, 04:55 PM

Good question, I've wondered about that myself. How does talking to a esscher cube make you feel? And how does it does feel when you imagine that behind that cube is a friendly bloke looking your way?

I don't imagine you are a bloke at all. You are the cube to me, a puzzle, something to be pieced together. You chose that avatar so I assume it reflects a part of you.

Everyone's avatar speaks to me differently, but after I read enough of their words in this post box it is their words that I react to. Eventually the avatar takes on the characteristics that I've picked up from their text.

Solaris

10-25-2008, 07:03 PM

Does this mean, Synamon, that my evil grin will eventually become equated to an evil genius grin in your mind? :P

Synamon

10-25-2008, 07:06 PM

Does this mean, Synamon, that my evil grin will eventually become equated to an evil genius grin in your mind? :P
Absolutely, that avatar is genius personified. I like it much better than your other one, it is distinctive and suits you in my opinion. Perhaps you've grown into it?

There's a question, does changing avatars make you act any differently? I was more playful as a purple dragon for sure.

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 07:12 PM

There's a question, does changing avatars make you act any differently? I was more playful as a purple dragon for sure.

I was thinking of this a couple of hours ago.
It seems that I do get more playful when changing avatars, but I wonder what the cause of that might be. Is it the act of changing avatars (which feels a little bit like a fresh beginning), or does it matter what the new avatar is compared to the old one? When I switched avatars with searcher recently, I became a bit more inhibited in some areas, perhaps because I knew that many would attribute my comments to her, and hers to me (since the avatars are usually used for recognition rather than the usernames). When I switched to my current avatar, it felt like more of a change.

I probably have been acting more extraverted/mouthy since switching this last time. Apologies to those in the path.

True Rune

10-25-2008, 07:15 PM

tp6626

10-25-2008, 07:24 PM

I've was Jimmy Page for a few weeks to start, then a picture of my own face for a week or so, before I settled on Neils Bohr.

I quite like my current avatar because it reflects how I feel inside my own head. Plus he appears deep in though, observing something, and I'd like to think that that plants a subconscious feeling in readers that I've thought very hard before making responses.

Not really sure to be honest what people think of it though, but I think I noticed a difference in user responses for each avatar I've used.

Autoptic

10-25-2008, 07:25 PM

It depends on the avatar and how often I see it, but sometimes avatars have their own voice in my mind On a different message board there's an avatar of a suitcase, which in my mind has a muffled voice coming from out the suitcase.

Vivid and OneHertz, high pitched weirdness and a feral Scooby Doo

Edit:^ though only on occasion
Mine, I tend to ignore much as I normally do passing mirrors. It might open me up a bit if I'm at all equating it to talking to myself.

Synamon

10-25-2008, 07:28 PM

I could equate that to switching jobs in FFXI..
I would be rather psycho as a Black Mage (Attack Magic user)
And a jerk as a Thief..
It was kind of fun to notice the changes. But the foundation would be the same.

I probably have been acting more extraverted/mouthy since switching this last time. Apologies to those in the path.

I quite like my current avatar because it reflects how I feel inside my own head. Plus he appears deep in though, observing something, and I'd like to think that that plants a subconscious feeling in readers that I've thought very hard before making responses.

Not really sure to be honest what people think of it though, but I think I noticed a difference in user responses for each avatar I've used.

Agreed, the underlying foundation is the same, but there are subtle changes in tone. We become our avatars, or at least emphasize whatever characteristics appealed to us enough to choose them in the first place.

Is it intentional or just Ni at work? TLM are you intentionally working the smirk and tp are you acting more serious to live up to the avatar? Or are we just weird to be analyzing avatars? :laugh:

TheLastMohican

10-25-2008, 07:30 PM

I quite like my current avatar because it reflects how I feel inside my own head. Plus he appears deep in though, observing something, and I'd like to think that that plants a subconscious feeling in readers that I've thought very hard before making responses.

I think it does. In my "perception," you are a thoughtful, older guy. Your avatar fits with your tone, and you don't make a lot of fluff posts. If you started using that shirtless picture of yourself as an avatar, for a while my subconscious would be in utter confusion.

tp6626

10-25-2008, 07:32 PM

Hehe, yes that's my comedic side. I shouldn't put that one on, or this forum would morph into a stand-up routine!

Santana28

10-25-2008, 11:19 PM

There - i did the unspeakable. I put a picture of myself as my avatar. And this is ironic, considering it is Halloween... the one occasion we are supposed to disguise ourselves, or be something other than we are.

Maybe i'll put a picture of my ENTJ boyfriend dressed as a bloody Dr. Adolf Hitler later ;)

Librorum

10-26-2008, 12:04 AM

This is a timely question - especially for me. I am getting a some amount of grief for the photo of me (which hides my face).

That's you?! Hooah! ;)

I think I'm only influenced by the avatar if I find it visually interesting (schwartzie), or if it correspond to something in the personality (alphawolf). In the former case, it makes the think the person has a little extra moxy. The same goes when the avatar and handle go together (PortInStorm).

punkyplatypus

10-28-2008, 11:31 AM

Vivid and OneHertz, high pitched weirdness and a feral Scooby Doo

Edit:^ though only on occasion
Mine, I tend to ignore much as I normally do passing mirrors. It might open me up a bit if I'm at all equating it to talking to myself.

Yeah, the voices I imagine to hear are also occasional. My mind's own voice is usually too busy for any other conflicting voice to join in.

I also wanted to add that I was just reading a post from a user with a Star Trek character as an avatar. I not only imagined his voice, but also was expecting "Captain" at the end of making specific points. Just as the character directs specific points and questions to the captain on the show.

Motor Jax

10-28-2008, 12:27 PM

i'm still the same cat... just with a Horde Banner now... :)

ArgentOunce

10-28-2008, 07:52 PM

I think the avatars reflect the inner self of the owner in an abstract way. No matter of the kind or nature. In many cases we force to give a face to the poster because in real life we need a face, at least in our minds. Is like to put name to an object, we -humans- need firstly to name the object to make a picture of what we are talking about. Secondly we assume a face (maybe the correct term is a "being"/body) to analyse the cues, even if is a computer. An avatar, as the replacement of the word "representation" give us in the vast world of internet a name and a body. Many of us can abstract secrets of the avatar because of the intuition, but in general, we react to the avatar consciously and unconsciously. We need to judge/perceive if the object is safe to us or not, is part of the instinct.

I also believe that the reflect of the avatar implies a lot of things of the inner-universe of the owner. Their likes/dislikes in examples. Also, an avatar, being choosed by the owner gives to the viewers a picture about the real name and being in the mind of the owner. Choosing and avatar is like choosing/creating a Nickname. It's too personal, because we can break the rules (Like grammar, caps, metrical, sound, etc) It's a way to set free the real self.

So, what things tell my avatar for me? ^^

alphawolf

10-29-2008, 06:29 AM

I quickly jumped on board of putting my actual picture as my avatar trend. I'm really interested to know if the way a person chooses their picture effects how you view them.

OK, well I didn't have much of an opinion before, but I view you as beautiful now ;-)

rewhu

10-29-2008, 08:39 AM

Avatars ranked in order of personal preference:

Random people
Famous people
Photos of "the real you"
Objects
Landscapes
Animals
Cartoons / Drawings of characters
Anime

For those of you who use human faces I'm definitely prone to putting certain traits on you, or as said below "hearing" a voice.

On a different message board there's an avatar of a suitcase, which in my mind has a muffled voice coming from out the suitcase.

Hilarious! Sounds like something Terry Pratchet would write.

thatfox

10-29-2008, 09:41 AM

I find that avatars help me identify who the post is by, quickly assess anything that the avatar reminds me of and then interpret the post. As has be said before, it is the "face" of the person that we are communicating with. And to answer an earlier question, I find that changing avatars does not have a change (to my knowledge) on what and how I post.

I think the avatars reflect the inner self of the owner in an abstract way. No matter of the kind or nature. In many cases we force to give a face to the poster because in real life we need a face, at least in our minds. Is like to put name to an object, we -humans- need firstly to name the object to make a picture of what we are talking about. Secondly we assume a face (maybe the correct term is a "being"/body) to analyse the cues, even if is a computer. An avatar, as the replacement of the word "representation" give us in the vast world of internet a name and a body. Many of us can abstract secrets of the avatar because of the intuition, but in general, we react to the avatar consciously and unconsciously. We need to judge/perceive if the object is safe to us or not, is part of the instinct.

I also believe that the reflect of the avatar implies a lot of things of the inner-universe of the owner. Their likes/dislikes in examples. Also, an avatar, being choosen by the owner gives to the viewers a picture about the real name and being in the mind of the owner. Choosing and avatar is like choosing/creating a Nickname. It's too personal, because we can break the rules (Like grammar, caps, metrical, sound, etc) It's a way to set free the real self.

How do you feel about people who do not use an avatar at all? Do you see them as faceless and indifferent, treating their posts with no preconceptions, or is your interpretation of them something else entirely?

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 09:55 AM

How do you feel about people who do not use an avatar at all? Do you see them as faceless and indifferent, treating their posts with no preconceptions, or is your interpretation of them something else entirely?

When someone with no avatar makes a post, my entire attention is directed to the words themselves (since there is no other data to interpret). The avatar is something I use to get additional information, since that is unavailable I pay attention to the words/grammar/language a lot more (not just the meaning).

An avatar is a tricky thing, sometimes I'm swayed one way, sometimes another sometimes not at all. With no avatar I'm swayed strictly based on what's written.

I am a little less interested in reading the post if there is a lot of data to wade through, it doesn't catch my attention as much.

MerieM

10-29-2008, 10:42 AM

Whatever is your avatar, I use it to remember the person more than the nick, so please people don't change your avatars, you can change you unchageable nicks.

rwyatt365

10-29-2008, 10:54 AM

Whatever is your avatar, I use it to remember the person more than the nick, so please people don't change your avatars, you can change you unchageable nicks.
Which is exactly why I've stuck with the "flying car" for so long. I changed several times when the forum was new, but I've settled on the car and stuck with it to avoid "culture shock" amongst my forum brethern.

As for others, I prefer non-real life avatars because I think it gives the poster the ability to express themselves in a way that can't be achieved with a picture of themselves. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against those that "go natural". (it saves me from having to go to the "Pictures" thread to associate a person with the posts).

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 10:56 AM

Whatever is your avatar, I use it to remember the person more than the nick, so please people don't change your avatars, you can change you unchageable nicks.

I really like what Lions, Monte and Syn were doing with their avatars. That is, playing with the same theme but changing it up a bit.

That keeps me on my toes, but I always know that it's the same person and my overall perception of them hasn't been challenged (well, ok, Syn took me for a spin, but it all sort of works together somehow), I tend to get more involved because there is a story there.

TheLastMohican

10-29-2008, 11:07 AM

As for others, I prefer non-real life avatars because I think it gives the poster the ability to express themselves in a way that can't be achieved with a picture of themselves.

Indeed, that flying car has become inseparable from your personality in my perception. (However you take that, I mean it in a good way.)

Algol

10-29-2008, 11:09 AM

My current avatar projects a stable personality, cool headed nature, and generally cheerful disposition.

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 11:10 AM

My current avatar projects a stable personality, cool headed nature, and generally cheerful disposition.

Ahhh!!! It made me jump back from my computer. It's not very pleasant, although I do see you as more confident and less at one with nature all of a sudden.

I second those goosebumps.

rewhu

10-29-2008, 11:11 AM

My current avatar projects a stable personality, cool headed nature, and generally cheerful disposition.

Your avatar makes me feel claustrophobic - all that face crammed into a tiny box.

*goosebumps*

MerieM

10-29-2008, 11:31 AM

Which is exactly why I've stuck with the "flying car" for so long. I changed several times when the forum was new, but I've settled on the car and stuck with it to avoid "culture shock" amongst my forum brethern.
[...]

And it is the reason why I remember you and why I don't remember Josephine1012 :p

Algol

10-29-2008, 11:33 AM

Ahhh!!! It made me jump back from my computer.

I think I will stick with this one for now then :-)

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 11:35 AM

And it is the reason why I remember you and why I don't remember Josephine1012 :p

I'm the poster formerly known as the flying witch ;)

Josephine1012 added to this post, 1 minutes and 29 seconds later...

I think I will stick with this one for now then :-)

Haha, well expect a lot more arguments from me from now on, as you appear to be challenging me in that avatar of yours. Challenge accepted :scared:

rewhu

10-29-2008, 11:47 AM

I'm the poster formerly known as the flying witch...

Can you post your previous avatar here (http://intjforum.com/showthread.php?p=203308)? I remember your forum name but not your "face".

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 11:53 AM

Can you post your previous avatar here (http://intjforum.com/showthread.php?p=203308)? I remember your forum name but not your "face".

Done. Does seeing the history of the poster's avatars gives you a more complete picture or do you focus only on the current one?

Haha, i can wreak havoc here with my posts and just change the avatar :wiseguy: :bow: :sneaky:

MerieM

10-29-2008, 11:57 AM

Done. [...]

This helped me a little lol

Algol

10-29-2008, 11:57 AM

Haha, well expect a lot more arguments from me from now on, as you appear to be challenging me in that avatar of yours. Challenge accepted :scared:

I will be looking forward to them! :p

As for your original question. I do pay attention and notice avatars quite a bit. They help me keep track of posts but also, in many cases, help me know what kind of image they want to project to the world.

IE: your picture seems to portray an interesting mix of emotions. It's skeptical in a "c'mon don't bullshit me" kind of way but there's also some sort of half-smile combined with that eye hidden behind your hair that seems to say you're fun loving and perhaps looking for a challenge.

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 12:34 PM

IE: your picture seems to portray an interesting mix of emotions. It's skeptical in a "c'mon don't bullshit me" kind of way but there's also some sort of half-smile combined with that eye hidden behind your hair that seems to say you're fun loving and perhaps looking for a challenge.

That's funny... because that was me going: "Oh, crap! another picture.... i hate pictures. I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face.... Oh, good, they are done"

Algol

10-29-2008, 12:35 PM

That's funny... because that was me going: "Oh, crap! another picture.... i hate pictures. I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face.... Oh, good, they are done"

But nobody puts up a picture because of what they were feeling at the moment it was taken, they put it up because of what they think it portrays about them.

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 12:39 PM

But nobody puts up a picture because of what they were feeling at the moment it was taken, they put it up because of what they think it portrays about them.

This is one of the 2 I have, where I'm not smiling like a maniac. The other one is before this dance performance thing and I have ton of make up on.

i don't want to use one of the ones where smile a lot because I think if I were reading my posts i wouldn't give as much credit to what I was saying....

Besides, I tend to stick my nose into serious matters and sometimes I'm not trying to be funny (although at times I am). I was also dying to join that "I'm my own avatar club" because Syn did it :p

Algol

10-29-2008, 12:43 PM

C'mon, don't bullshit me. :cheesy:

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 12:46 PM

C'mon, don't bullshit me. :cheesy:

fine! I would like to come off more the way I look in that picture than the way I come off in real life.

I'm a lot wiser than people give me credit for, but I have no interest in fighting to keep that spot on the social ladder. So this is a bit of a hog heaven for me, because I get convince you all I sport that "don't bullshit me" look all the time ;D

Algol

10-29-2008, 12:53 PM

fine! I would like to come off more the way I look in that picture than the way I come off in real life.

I think you answered your own original question! ;)

EDIT: Damn it this new avatar is freaking even ME out, I might just go with a picture of myself eventually.

MerieM

10-29-2008, 03:23 PM

That's funny... because that was me going: "Oh, crap! another picture.... i hate pictures. I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face, I'm not gonna make a crazy face.... Oh, good, they are done"

It is funnier, because when I was reading Algol's post, I saw your pic and I said : <<Nah..She is saying in her mind "When is this going to end?! I want it to be a beautifull pic">>..then I said : <<It's not true. It's only in my mind>>

Josephine1012

10-29-2008, 03:51 PM

It is funnier, because when I was reading Algol's post, I saw your pic and I said : <<Nah..She is saying in her mind "When is this going to end?! I want it to be a beautifull pic">>..then I said : <<It's not true. It's only in my mind>>

Totally true!!!

Josephine1012

10-30-2008, 06:00 PM

So, my study continues... What do you guys think of me now?

Algol

10-30-2008, 06:03 PM

Not very interesting at all... it does not really say anything to me.

Josephine1012

10-30-2008, 06:20 PM

Not very interesting at all... it does not really say anything to me.

good, it's my "no avatar" avatar. Mildly more interesting than having none at all. It's subject to change of course just so that keep people confused on who is posting....

F6M13

10-30-2008, 08:30 PM

I just like to know who i'm talking to. It makes things seem more friendly and less mysterious. But to each their own.

Algol

10-30-2008, 08:35 PM

I just like to know who i'm talking to. It makes things seem more friendly and less mysterious. But to each their own.

A lot of us don't use out picture in our avatar but put it up in the member's pictures thread.

Josephine1012

10-30-2008, 08:42 PM

A lot of us don't use out picture in our avatar but put it up in the member's pictures thread.

What!?!?!? You don't actually look like that "sexy" (pronounced: pink and bloody) man peaking through my screen. I feel very deceived!

Algol

10-30-2008, 08:52 PM

What!?!?!? You don't actually look like that "sexy" (pronounced: pink and bloody) man peaking through my screen. I feel very deceived!

The best part is that it is a character from Cirque du Soleil, a freakin' CIRCUS! I feel bad for children that are taken to that particular show!

Josephine1012

10-30-2008, 10:15 PM

The best part is that it is a character from Cirque du Soleil, a freakin' CIRCUS! I feel bad for children that are taken to that particular show!

*Makes a snap judgment about ALL Canadians*

Actually, I was thinking about this, since I've been messing around with my avatar and I have to agree that it effects how I post as well.

this one makes me feel much more anonymous, it's like I don't have to be fully accountable (since my face is gone) about everything I say.... So I tend to be more playful, I kind of feel in character (maybe that's just an immediate reaction to a recent change)....

Moondyn

10-30-2008, 10:20 PM

psychologically the avatar effects me much, when I read the post next to the avatar I don't imagine a strange voice that matches the avatar reading it, but I do think the image influences my opinion of the person who posts.

Is my avatar depressing? Does it create a sad feeling of loss?

Josephine1012

10-30-2008, 10:24 PM

Moondyn

10-30-2008, 10:39 PM

I really like it, it makes me think you're wistful and misunderstood. I think it matches your name really well.

Thank you ... actually I didn't notice it matched my name, now that I think about it, they do match because of their similar mood. (maybe that's why I subconsciously chose this avatar huh?)

MerieM

10-31-2008, 03:16 AM

So, my study continues... What do you guys think of me now?

I guess, I am not confortable with any new avatar.

Deliberator

11-02-2008, 09:31 PM

I love seeing people's faces. But yes, sometimes how they happen to look in the photo sort of effects how the tone of their post is interpreted.

This happened with me with my first self-avatar. A picture of a lazy Deliberator holding a cigar with a smug and haughty expression tends to make people think that I'm being supremely brazen and arrogant with everything I say.

I just now put this one up so that people will take what I say with a little more humor, which is very much my style (but I do hate to use emoticons).

Vagrant

11-02-2008, 09:42 PM

This avatar is to be playful but intelligent and cute at the same time. >.>

Solaris

11-02-2008, 09:54 PM

Does this mean people will think I am spacey now? ;)

TheLastMohican

11-02-2008, 09:55 PM

Does this mean people will think I am spacey now? ;)

No, now I think you feel a couple of galaxies colliding in your brain: Ni and Te, perhaps?

Josephine1012

11-02-2008, 09:58 PM

Does this mean people will think I am spacey now? ;)

I'm just glad that Solaris doesn't instill this unexplainable fear in me anymore... I love the avatar, makes me thing she is infinitely wise ;)

Synamon

11-02-2008, 10:01 PM

*rawwwrrr* I'm back as a lavender dragon with a lollipop.

Any one want a cappuccino? I'm an expert milk frother with my snout.

Josephine1012

11-02-2008, 10:03 PM

*rawwwrrr* I'm back as a lavender dragon with a lollipop.

Any one want a cappuccino? I'm an expert milk frother with my snout.

Lol!!! I just noticed the lollipop. Nice touch ;D

Solaris

11-02-2008, 10:07 PM

No, now I think you feel a couple of galaxies colliding in your brain: Ni and Te, perhaps?

Guess which one is Te.

Vagrant

11-02-2008, 10:07 PM

Lol!!! I just noticed the lollipop. Nice touch ;D

Lollipop, lollipop, oh lolli lolli.....

Josephine1012

11-02-2008, 10:12 PM

This avatar is to be playful but intelligent and cute at the same time. >.>

By the way your avatar makes me think you're less judgmental and more introspective.... I just think it's so weird how this avatar thing works.

TheLastMohican

11-02-2008, 10:12 PM

Guess which one is Te.

It's the one shoving the other one out of the frame.

Solaris

11-02-2008, 10:13 PM

I'm just glad that Solaris doesn't instill this unexplainable fear in me anymore... I love the avatar, makes me thing she is infinitely wise ;)

Hehe! I make you thing!

Erm, I mean, I'm glad I don't scare you anymore.

Valiyn

11-02-2008, 10:51 PM

I liked the scary sol better personally. Most INTJs aren't scary to other INTJs, however, a social version of them in the form of an ENTJ can be very scary.

I like the galaxies though, makes you seem wise. Just be warned that some of us aren't content with just global domination and you are advertising large areas that could be fun to conquer.

Smoke n Mirrors

11-03-2008, 02:18 AM

Interesting discussion. I like to think that my avatar somehow makes me look curious and thoughtful. It would be interesting to find out if that were actually the case. (I somehow suspect that it isn't at all. ;))

jikin

11-03-2008, 06:50 AM

This avatar is to be playful but intelligent and cute at the same time. >.>

I absolutely love your avatar. It's so darn cute! You've used it before, haven't you?

Vagrant

11-03-2008, 12:01 PM

I absolutely love your avatar. It's so darn cute! You've used it before, haven't you?

Aww, thanks. :P

And no, I never have actually used it anywhere but this site. :D

Marcus

11-03-2008, 12:08 PM

There is an initial 'first impression' factor, but the posts coming from a person weight more after a while.
Apart from that there is a 'friendliness factor'. I'm less inclined to become personal with members having cold/scary/impersonal avatars.

Josephine1012

11-03-2008, 01:21 PM

Synamon

11-03-2008, 01:31 PM

The bear is smart like a fox. :idea:

Marcus

11-03-2008, 01:49 PM

Is that the reason you use that cute polar bear cub?

You figured me out. Notice the long term manipulative strategy I had in my insidious INTJ mind right after joining the forum. :)

Jane

11-03-2008, 05:33 PM

This is out of point but hurray, I've got a new avatar! :D

Jane added to this post, 0 minutes and 46 seconds later...

It looks kinda like me!

The Rose

11-03-2008, 07:20 PM

I quickly jumped on board of putting my actual picture as my avatar trend. I'm really interested to know if the way a person chooses their picture effects how you view them.

Obviously, no matter what picture we put up our personality still stays the same, and what we say in posts will remain similar. But I'm wondering if seeing someone's face changes how you react to those posts.

Do you prefer to remain anonymous or in character, or are we all seeking to get more of our real selves out there? On the flip side of that would you prefer that other's pictures remained anonymous as well, or are you more comfortable seeing what we look like.
...
I like it when people use an avatar of themselves. It's nice to see what a person looks like. For the most part, I think people choose an avatar that communicates something about themselves. I prefer to remain anonymous myself, so that I can feel free to say whatever I like without worrying about being read by someone I know. My sister is into forums, so I have to be careful.

F6M13

11-03-2008, 09:02 PM

I prefer to remain anonymous myself, so that I can feel free to say whatever I like without worrying about being read by someone I know. My sister is into forums, so I have to be careful.

I thought of that later after making certain posts here and also on other boards, but then i realized that i really don't give 2 shits about what anyone thinks. If someone i know finds them or comes across them, then it would be an interesting exchange if they choose to confront me about them.

Bring it.

Vagrant

11-06-2008, 12:16 AM

I thought of that later after making certain posts here and also on other boards, but then i realized that i really don't give 2 shits about what anyone thinks. If someone i know finds them or comes across them, then it would be an interesting exchange if they choose to confront me about them.

Bring it.

Yeah, my friend also worries about people finding him on craigslist or some **** like that.

I laugh, because if they did, so what? If they made some insult out of it, I think they'd prove how much of an ***hole they are.

hullolife

11-06-2008, 06:18 PM

<-- Is it me or am I in character? The world may never know.

Josephine1012

11-06-2008, 06:19 PM

<-- Is it me or am I in character? The world may never know.

hehe, well if you are in character. Your character is pretty badass! :thumbsup:

hullolife

11-06-2008, 06:23 PM

hehe, well if you are in character. Your character is pretty badass! :thumbsup:

That was holistically flattering. Damn. Now you're the badass. Omg cycle! :wacko:

Vagrant

11-06-2008, 07:08 PM

That was holistically flattering. Damn. Now you're the badass. Omg cycle! :wacko:

And if you're not in character, you're pretty good looking. :P

Cicatrix

11-07-2008, 01:00 AM

I'm less inclined to become personal with members having cold/scary/impersonal avatars.

I just thought that my avatar might come across like that. Is it any of those?

enWTFp

11-07-2008, 03:04 AM

I'm less inclined to become personal with members having cold/scary/impersonal avatars.All my avatars. So they have this effect on people? Good.

Avatars should not matter except as means for identification, but I admit they affect me. Especially colour gamma. My current favourite are:

PortInStorm | le Duc
http://i37.tinypic.com/2druwrn.jpg | http://i38.tinypic.com/pvtwy.jpg

xacting

11-11-2008, 06:48 PM

Personal or impersonal, seems this quick, small, easily identifiable pic does indeed provide an insight to their bearer. We're all familiar with the cliche "A picture is worth a thousand words.", I would venture less on its value here (for us) as just a crumb of our personality. A grain of sand in a sand castle the size of Mt. Rushmore better said. A piece nonetheless. So it's to my dismay that I cannot figure out what the heck I want to be!!! ACKKKK! I'll have to hammer one out in photoshop when I can find something that suits me. Wish me luck.

Santana28

11-11-2008, 08:20 PM

as promised... my BF the ENTJ's delightful halloween persona ;) i'll change it in a few days...

dissident

11-11-2008, 08:22 PM

I guess my current one has already stirred up some opinions after only a couple of hours.

:scared::mad::freak:

Smotor

11-11-2008, 08:41 PM

I totally dig it though, and a little jealous. It's like you're normally cooped up behind the ceiling, but come out to the forums and peak about for a bit. Who knows, in another dimension, maybe a calico kitty is your familiar. Not really, but whatever....

dissident

11-11-2008, 08:48 PM

thanks, although it might have different meaning for some people then for others, depending on whether they've seen this picture elsewhere on the net.

Santana28

11-11-2008, 09:09 PM

thanks, although it might have different meaning for some people then for others, depending on whether they've seen this picture elsewhere on the net.

Dr. Hitler says.... "Heil, Kitty!"

interstellar

11-11-2008, 11:09 PM

i picked this one off the forum's choices, i quite like it. now what does that say about me.

Vagrant

11-12-2008, 01:59 AM

Dr. Hitler says.... "Heil, Kitty!"

"Oh bloody heil."

EdmontonAspie

11-12-2008, 06:46 PM

Dr. Hitler says.... "Heil, Kitty!"

Seeck Heil! :yuck:

We don't have a smiley for vomiting, so the one
for "yuck" had to do.

Caramel

11-13-2008, 08:58 AM

I honestly don't even factor avatars in in deciding if I like somebody. What kind of art styles you prefer has nothing to do with the validity of your argument. If your words make sense, I like you. (Even if I might disagree with you.)

That said, I do love the ceiling cat and puzzel cat avatars. ^^

LionsPride

11-13-2008, 09:15 AM

I wouldn't say that avatar makes me decide whether to like or dislike someone, but I do find that avatars are usually consistent with a person's personality. People who are cheerful and excitable don't usually pick depressing artwork to represent themselves. People who are usually solemn and thoughtful don't often pick avatars with prancing ponies and pretty kittens. I say usually because there are always exceptions to the rule. In some cases a neutral avatar may be imprinted by the person's personality and it becomes solemn or cheerful because of the person behind it.

It's said that a picture is worth a thousand words and when the picture is chosen by someone, to represent themselves, it speaks directly about the chooser. With that said, the person viewing may not always get the right 1000 words, because images can carry many meanings. However, images are still a very successful communication tool because there are just some emotions/moods/facial expressions that come through loud and clear.

Of course, if you pick a wise looking avatar and you are an idiot, it will be found out rather quickly. But, if you are wise and pick a silly avatar, you can't help but put a humourous context to what they say. Over time, it might change, but those first few posts can be skewed a bit by the avatar.

Caramel

11-13-2008, 09:30 AM

Over time, it might change, but those first few posts can be skewed a bit by the avatar.

This could very well be true. First impressions are usually made by looking at someones face and the way he/she expresses him/herself, but online we cannot see faces, so the avatar has to suffice.

It is unfortunate that individual premade avatars can only be used once; makes it much harder to pick an avatar you would want to represent you.

LionsPride

11-13-2008, 09:37 AM

You can post your own custom avatar. The ones in the gallery are just there as options. Of course, I love the art that's in there, so I can see why people would feel disappointed if one was taken, but if you identify with an image and want to load it yourself, you can do so.

Often when I say the avatar reflects the person, I don't usually apply as much of that to people using the premade ones because I know the limitations of selecting from the gallery. Often they are just used temporarily until a personal one can be loaded. When they aren't, when they are selected and kept, eventually (in my head) the person and avatar merge.

Motor Jax

11-13-2008, 01:04 PM

< what does mine say?

*is curious*

hullolife

11-13-2008, 01:10 PM

< what does mine say?

*is curious*

LOTR, WoW, Demons, Pride, Ninjas and Numchucks

All of those quickly flashed in my brain

Motor Jax

11-13-2008, 01:14 PM

ha ha ha, nice...

i love the colors of dark reds and burgundy...

... and i play Horde on WoW...

LionsPride

11-14-2008, 07:54 AM

Sorry Motor Jax, I still picture you as the caracal. Of course, I'm slightly biased to the feline purrsuation.

Kisai

11-14-2008, 11:37 AM

HUBRIS!! Wahahaahaaa!!! Ack, the hero! *falls dead*

Takumi

11-15-2008, 05:57 PM

I loved reading this thread, and I'd get into all that about my views on the subject but it's kind of a circular thing.

So I'll just say, I chose my avatar based on my need to remind myself to laugh at myself and the rest of the world as often as possible.

Nikita

12-10-2008, 12:34 AM

What would you guys say avatars with closed eyes indicates? I've noticed that the only two I've ever used have shared that characteristic, that and being fairly monotone.

Elsien

12-10-2008, 03:02 AM

I would like your views on this avatar what it says about me. I now have photoshop so Its about high time I change my avatar to something else i guess, however this avatar has grown on me...i really like it.

Elsien added to this post, 94 minutes and 38 seconds later...

well actually I decided to go ahead and make my own avatar before anyone had a chance to respond. This took me about an hour and a half to do in photoshop (I created each chinese symbol myself bit by bit.) The "L" is for Lance, my first name, and is the look of the 'L' I put into all of my artwork. (The direction in which it is shaped, not the fuzzy effect around it) Each Chinese symbol goes as follows starting with the top and going left: Wisdom, Love, Peace.

I am extremely happy with this design thus far. Let me know what kind of impression it gives off.

muchado

12-10-2008, 06:02 AM

schwartzie

12-10-2008, 07:57 AM

I've used two avatars. lovely meg white and my current mad alice one. Guess which one got hit on more?

Synamon

12-10-2008, 08:01 AM

I've used two avatars. lovely meg white and my current mad alice one. Guess which one got hit on more?

Since this is the INTJ forum, I'm going to say mad Alice. :laugh: Insane trumps lovely every time.

I speak from experience, I seem to be more approachable as a purple dragon than Lolita.

rwyatt365

12-10-2008, 08:29 AM

INTJ men obviously don't appreciate beauty (or, fantasy is more appealing).

dalidaisy

12-10-2008, 08:55 AM

I first put my own picture up as my avatar, but saw that most did not & felt out of place. So, I went with Mallory Knox from Natural Born Killers. It's my favorite movie & I just like character. She acts without censorship & simply is who she is.

"You know what I say? I say... to hell with going back to our cells. Let's go out there, and run down the stairs, and go out in a hail of bullets. And then we'll die! And then we'll really be free." - Sounds like something I would say if I was a spaced out psychopathic killer (which I am not).

dalidaisy added to this post, 1 minutes and 18 seconds later...

Is it okay? Should I change it to some anime or something else I'm not remotely interested in to SEEM more interesting?

LionsPride

12-10-2008, 09:02 AM

I am extremely happy with this design thus far. Let me know what kind of impression it gives off.

Because you asked...;)

http://intjforum.com/customavatars/avatar3960_3.gif

I have to admit, it doesn't really give me much impression of you as a person. Obviously the meaning you provided adds to an understanding of the image, but if I was just browsing a thread, I wouldn't know that and I don't read Chinese (my limitation as an audience).

If pressed, to interpret it as a reflection of a person (not whether I like the image or not), I would find you to be a hard person, based on the black and white imagery. The harsh contrast (as opposed to a softer contrast of say light blue on dark blue) would make me feel like you are not a person that gives others lenience or understanding (hence the hardness description). That's what I see, but as it's an abstract, I'm sure other people will interpret it differently. It's a weak impression in that if I read a couple of your posts and they were jovial and not like that impression at all, I wouldn't see it anymore. What matters is that you feel it represents you. I enjoy people who have avatars. No matter what the image might convey, I still feel like there is something to identify the words with a unique person.

rwyatt365

12-10-2008, 09:18 AM

Rider

12-10-2008, 02:07 PM

Speaking of avatars...anyone have a problem talking to a giant eye? Its at least my real, actual eye. You should see the uncropped picture...THAT'S scary. :)

dalidaisy

12-10-2008, 02:09 PM

Speaking of avatars...anyone have a problem talking to a giant eye? Its at least my real, actual eye. You should see the uncropped picture...THAT'S scary. :)

I LOVE your eye... It actually makes me smile everytime I see it...

See, I expressed love. I'm capable. Now, can your eye come live with me?

Rider

12-10-2008, 03:14 PM

Alas, my eye and I are quite inseparable, although I commend and encourage your continued ability to love.

Who knew the powers of my eye? ::cheers::

dalidaisy

12-10-2008, 03:40 PM

Rejection... I lose again... This I why I keep my feelings to myself... I hope you & your eye are happy together...

* I do like it as your avatar, so please keep it! *

LionsPride

12-10-2008, 03:45 PM

Speaking of avatars...anyone have a problem talking to a giant eye?

Doesn't bother me at all. I kind of like the giant eye. Hey, is that your soul in the upper right?...;)

rara avis

12-10-2008, 03:48 PM

I just read a post from Astra mentioning her child and I thought, huh, she really looks young to have children... and then I remembered her avatar is a freaking doll.

I was aware it's not an animate thing, but I still was still, without realizing it, ascribing the writer's voice to it in my head.

I'm pretty avatar-gullible; the image very much infuses my sense of someone's posts, on occasion. Especially the avatars with any kind of face, human or otherwise.

schwartzie

12-10-2008, 03:49 PM

I agree. 's a good eye. interestingly webby....

jikin

12-10-2008, 04:01 PM

tp6626

12-10-2008, 04:14 PM

What effect does my avatar have?

Note: When I first joined I had Jimmy Page for about a month and my year of birth was on my profile page. When I started using this avatar, I removed my age to see what would happen.

rara avis

12-10-2008, 04:16 PM

What's effect does my avatar have?

Note: When I first joined I had Jimmy Page for about a month and my year of birth was on my profile page. When I started using this avatar, I removed my age to see what would happen.

I've learned my lesson with yours, though it did throw me at first. I always heard your posts coming from a curmudgeonly old man with crazy-ass eyebrows.

I have a basic idea of what you look like, now, thanks to the picture thread. (A Jawa or a Hogwarts grad, depending on use of costume.)

LionsPride

12-10-2008, 04:24 PM

I've learned my lesson with yours, though it did throw me at first. I always heard your posts coming from a curmudgeonly old man with crazy-ass eyebrows.

I have to admit, I picture your voice like rara avis mentioned and while I know better, I haven't changed it. :)

In addition to that, I picture you being very thorough with your posts and methodical with the way you navigate or read threads in the forum.

rara avis

12-10-2008, 04:28 PM

I have to admit, I picture your voice like rara avis mentioned and while I know better, I haven't changed it. :)

In addition to that, I picture you being very thorough with your posts and methodical with the way you navigate or read threads in the forum.

...squinting and frowning as he traces along the lines of text with a gnarled, slightly shaky fingertip...

tp6626

12-10-2008, 04:49 PM

I'll take those images as a compliment!

I quite like wise old men, and aspire to be one some day. Whenever I meet any, I always grill them, generally with the question "What did you do (with your life, to get to here)?". They always seem to know what I mean, without me actually saying the last part, and usually tell a good story.

tp6626 added to this post, 2 minutes and 12 seconds later...

Lionspride: Those cat disguises are quite effective. I have trouble visualising any of the members using them. They give little away. Even my intuitive abilities fail to churn some insight out from all the invisible clues in your posts.

LionsPride

12-10-2008, 09:30 PM

Lionspride: Those cat disguises are quite effective. I have trouble visualising any of the members using them. They give little away. Even my intuitive abilities fail to churn some insight out from all the invisible clues in your posts.

Trouble visualizing? How so? Do you mean you can't see the humans behind the cats or you have problems assigning the personalities in the posts to cat faces?

As to the invisible clues, I think you are far more literal than I am (the fact that I wander around the forum in the guise of a giant feline might be reasonable proof of this). Since there is very little I mean literally (except when I am completely serious), my personality doesn't show up in the words, so much as it shows up between the lines. For a more literal person, it might seem like invisible clues. Less literal people like Synamon and Fridays Child seem to read me like a book. Sometimes I think Synamon should just type "Lions and I think" in her posts since it's clear that she can read my mind and post what I'm thinking before I think it.

Yes, that last bit wasn't even close to literal, but Syn knows exactly what I invisibly said to her. ;)

rwyatt365

12-11-2008, 05:23 AM

LP and Syn, sittin' in a tree...

pocohauntus

12-11-2008, 05:56 AM

I speak from experience, I seem to be more approachable as a purple dragon than Lolita.
Then why is Lolita your avatar? You'd look better as a purple dragon.

rara avis

12-11-2008, 09:17 AM

I think Lolita is appropriately sassy and intriguing. Sweetly ironic.

(And not at all John Waters-y. Extremely Kubrickian.)

Synamon

12-11-2008, 01:20 PM

Sometimes I think Synamon should just type "Lions and I think" in her posts since it's clear that she can read my mind and post what I'm thinking before I think it.

Yes, that last bit wasn't even close to literal, but Syn knows exactly what I invisibly said to her. ;)

I can read everyone's mind, bwhahahahahahahahahahhaahhahhaahahaahaha. :mad:

:love: Lions ;)

LP and Syn, sittin' in a tree...

You're just jealous, not to worry I have plenty of love to go around. :lovestruck:

Then why is Lolita your avatar? You'd look better as a purple dragon.

I use them both, the lavender dragon comes out to play sometimes as well, depending on my mood. *rawwwrrr* Some people like Lolita and some like the dragon, seems to be about an even split.

I think Lolita is appropriately sassy and intriguing. Sweetly ironic.

:thumbsup: That's what I was going for.

Enough about me, Chinese symbol does nothing for me, badass girl fits, the surprised librarian will take some getting used to (I still see rara avis as a silly black and white bull), giant eye is good, and tp6266 is a curmudgeon so I like his avatar as well.

tp6626

12-11-2008, 01:35 PM

Does everyone think I'm curmudgeonly? I'm not that stubborn and resentful am I? I'll just assume you all mean it in an affectionate way.

Synamon

12-11-2008, 01:51 PM

I meant it in an affectionate way, but was all out of my quota of smileys. :lovestruck:

from Wiki:
There have been numerous well-known curmudgeons, fictional and non-fictional, throughout society. Some are:

Arthur Schopenhauer, H. L. Mencken, Colonel Blimp, Friedrich Nietzsche, George Bernard Shaw, W. C. Fields, Dorothy Parker, Malcolm Muggeridge, Victor Craven-Hodgson, Andy Rooney, Quentin Crisp, Oscar Levant, Commander McBragg, Richard Hayes Smith, Paul Fussell, James Howard Kunstler, Dan Aukland, R. Crumb, Ebenezer Scrooge (pre-transformation), and Big Daddy in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

In his later years, the actor Walter Matthau played curmudgeons (e.g., in Grumpy Old Men' ).

Gregory House (protagonist of the Fox Network medical drama House (TV Series)) has been described as a curmudgeon, which was named one of the top television words of 2006 in honor of the character.

I'd say you are in pretty good company.

reb

12-11-2008, 04:46 PM

tp6626

12-11-2008, 05:33 PM

tp6626,

curmudgeons...i once had a book called 'The Portable Curmudgeon'...i cherished it, as it was given to me by an ex-girlfriend who was hilarious. H.L. Mencken seemed to have a major part, but there were luscious quotes by many mentioned by Synamon as well. i'm still wondering where it went, and who i need to throttle....

nothing wrong with curmudgeons...we have to eat, too.
Ok, I'll let you all off. I found this:
What is a Curmudgeon anyway?

A curmudgeon's reputation for malevolence is undeserved. They're neither warped nor evil at heart. They don't hate mankind, just mankind's absurdities. They're just as sensitive and soft-hearted as the next guy, but they hide their vulnerability beneath a crust of misanthropy. They ease the pain by turning hurt into humor. . . . . . They attack maudlinism because it devalues genuine sentiment. . . . . . Nature, having failed to equip them with a servicable denial mechanism, has endowed them with astute perception and sly wit.
Curmudgeons are mockers and debunkers whose bitterness is a symptom rather than a disease. They can't compromise their standards and can't manage the suspension of disbelief necessary for feigned cheerfulness. Their awareness is a curse.
Perhaps curmudgeons have gotten a bad rap in the same way that the messenger is blamed for the message: They have the temerity to comment on the human condition without apology. They not only refuse to applaud mediocrity, they howl it down with morose glee. Their versions of the truth unsettle us, and we hold it against them, even though they soften it with humor. - JON WINOKUR :)

Zombicide

12-11-2008, 07:30 PM

I don't like it when someone's avatar looks like they're starring at me (unless it's a cute noirish girl licking a lolipop or somethin) and I dislike it when an avatar looks like a complete ass h__ It's because I associate the expression of the avatar with that person, after all, one would think that would be why they chose the avatar. It doesn't have too much of an effect but it's there. I mean, I do like the avatars that I highly "dislike" the expression of because I get to have an idea of whether or not I dislike that person......

As for seeing or not seeing the person behind the account goes, I more frequently prefer the ones where I can't see the person, as ordinarily it tells me nothing about them, it's usually just some randomly assigned, generic human shell, while the art style of the ones that aren't pictures of the person themselves actually give me a glimpse of something going on in their brain i.e. it tells me something of who they are or what they're into. It's almost like a mini typology indicator in and of itself. It can say something about their interest and the art style they like and that can translate something of their overall mind.

Interestingly the interpretations aren't always direct. For instance, an avatar that is stupid looking does not imply that the person is stupid but that they are goofy or humorous

SeaCzar

12-11-2008, 07:59 PM

I never realised that others had given so much thought to avatars. Like others, when I recognise an avatar, I have an idea how the post is going to be (intelligent, flippant or some combo thereof). I've always been facinated by big cats, which is how I chose mine from the member's board. I was originally a British Airways Concorde, afterburners (re-heats) flareing (I thought this was one badass aircraft, and it relates to what I do). Now that I think about it, I do relate to my avatar, in that I am solitary, curious, don't take <poop> from anyone, and basically rule my own little kingdom, even if it is largely in my mind. What do you guys think of it?

LionsPride

12-11-2008, 08:10 PM

I never realised that others had given so much thought to avatars. Like others, when I recognise an avatar, I have an idea how the post is going to be (intelligent, flippant or some combo thereof). I've always been facinated by big cats, which is how I chose mine from the member's board... Now that I think about it, I do relate to my avatar, in that I am solitary, curious, don't take <poop> from anyone, and basically rule my own little kingdom, even if it is largely in my mind. What do you guys think of it?

I have no idea what you're talking about.

...

:laugh:

Speak on! My cat brother.

Airius

12-12-2008, 02:05 PM

I don't psychoanalyze avatars.

Though, I do find them helpful to recognize others by.

dalidaisy

12-12-2008, 02:12 PM

SeaCzar

12-12-2008, 02:57 PM

SeaCzar, your name & avatar both scare the hell outta me...

I have that effect on women in real life as well (j/k).

Harmony

12-12-2008, 02:57 PM

I had originally gone with a cute kitty picture... Okay so a cat that big can't really be called a kitty... But then I found this avatar and it kind of reminded me of what I might look like painted. Had thought about replacing it with my own, but I'm quite fond of it now...

idem

12-12-2008, 03:04 PM

I have a new avatar!

I'm wondering: does it give anyone any deep insights into my personality?

jikin

12-12-2008, 03:09 PM

SeaCzar, your name & avatar both scare the hell outta me...

I always want to huggle that lion! He's so darn cute!

Kisai

12-12-2008, 03:25 PM

I have a new avatar!

I'm wondering: does it give anyone any deep insights into my personality?

Absolutely. Because you chose a redhead, it means you suffer from the dreaded disease "gingervitus"

http://media.southparkstudios.com/img/content/season9/911.jpg

Symptoms include an aversion to sunlight and having no soul.

idem

12-12-2008, 03:29 PM

Okay, I've turned into a vampire. Good to know.

Nihilum

12-12-2008, 11:57 PM

My avatar just means I'm a Nine Inch Nails fan.

rara avis

12-13-2008, 12:16 AM

...Chinese symbol does nothing for me, badass girl fits, the surprised librarian will take some getting used to (I still see rara avis as a silly black and white bull), giant eye is good, and tp6266 is a curmudgeon so I like his avatar as well.

I got tired of identifying as bovine... someone -I'm not naming any names- actually addressed me as a heifer. Meant with abject lurve and adoration, I'm sure, and yet. I'd just decided I needed a pick-me-up around that point, anyway, so I'm looking at it as an affirmation of my new avatar.

Ferdinand never goes far from me- maybe he'll reappear at some point.

Does everyone think I'm curmudgeonly? I'm not that stubborn and resentful am I? I'll just assume you all mean it in an affectionate way.

Dude, I think almost any one of us here sporting a similar frowny old man avatar would officially qualify in my mind as a curmudgeon.
(I know Dorothy Parker qualifies, but I always think of curmudgeons as hoary old men.)

Have I missed this- who is your avatar? I don't recognize him, should I?
He has that Thufir Hawat panache. (Mainly in the eyebrows.)

tp6626

12-13-2008, 07:24 PM

Have I missed this- who is your avatar? I don't recognize him, should I?
He has that Thufir Hawat penache. (Mainly in the eyebrows.)
It's Neils Bohr.

He worked on the structure of the atom. One of his quotes "Never speak faster than you think".

And he did have big eye brows. And yes, mine are quite big too!

Elfrun

12-13-2008, 08:49 PM

This is the only forum I frequent that I've never changed my avatar on, I haven't really thought about what impression others would have of her and am curious if ya'll think it says anything besides I’m a bat-winged pixie?

LionsPride

12-14-2008, 10:00 PM

jikin

12-15-2008, 08:00 AM

I've always been confused about your avatar. Since the wings are on the wrong side, isn't she embracing something with bat wings? If so, what is it and where on earth is the head? I think I've studied your avatar more than any other one here.

schwartzie

12-15-2008, 09:16 AM

y, I agree w jikin. I always thought the small white tattood wings belonged to the apparently female pixie thing part of the avatar, and she is in the process of being enfolded into something else's dark wings. Edgy, complex, dichotomous. INTPish (impish suits you.)

Sunshine

12-15-2008, 04:41 PM

This is an interesting thread and I discovered it almost immediately after joining and uploading a real pic of myself to use as my avatar.

I like the real pic thing because while it's true I utilize the internet, email and basically any form of electronic/non face to face form of communication possible...whenever possible, I do envision a more personal way of interacting. This is why I even use my real name as my username. It's more of a way to let people in...whether they want it that way or not ; )

I'm also not concerned with the supposed dangers of doing so and as long as I'm not posting my SS# and address, I feel safe.

(I did try to find the most normal pick of me possible...and could easily have posted much douchier variations but will refrain until we get to know each other (don't want anyone taking me too seriously now)

Lucid

12-15-2008, 05:33 PM

As for seeing or not seeing the person behind the account goes, I more frequently prefer the ones where I can't see the person, as ordinarily it tells me nothing about them, it's usually just some randomly assigned, generic human shell, while the art style of the ones that aren't pictures of the person themselves actually give me a glimpse of something going on in their brain i.e. it tells me something of who they are or what they're into. It's almost like a mini typology indicator in and of itself. It can say something about their interest and the art style they like and that can translate something of their overall mind.

Interestingly the interpretations aren't always direct. For instance, an avatar that is stupid looking does not imply that the person is stupid but that they are goofy or humorous

I think the same way about avatars, since it's something that person has chosen to represent themselves.

Having realized that, I now wonder (and possibly cringe at) what my avatar says about me. Comments are welcome, though not required.

I also want to hug SeaCzar's lion. He looks very soulful (as does LionsPride's), which is ironic since were I to actually attempt such a thing I would most likely be horribly maimed. :)

Elfrun

12-15-2008, 06:12 PM

Trinity, with you, whatever images the bat-winged pixie brought to my mind are completely replaced by your personality. In fact, I think your voice is going to taint any other images I see of winged pixies instead of the other way around.

:)

I suppose that's one of the merits of having a single avatar for so long.

Sweet I've peverted the image of pixies everywhere http://smileyjungle.com/smilies/celebrate6.gif (http://smileyjungle.com)

I've always been confused about your avatar. Since the wings are on the wrong side, isn't she embracing something with bat wings? If so, what is it and where on earth is the head? I think I've studied your avatar more than any other one here.

Holy hell, you're right! OMG WHAT THE HELL IS IT?!? http://smileyjungle.com/smilies/confused14.gif (http://smileyjungle.com)

y, I agree w jikin. I always thought the small white tattood wings belonged to the apparently female pixie thing part of the avatar, and she is in the process of being enfolded into something else's dark wings. Edgy, complex, dichotomous. INTPish (impish suits you.)

Just goes to show the level of my Setardedness that I never actually looked at my avatar in any detail. Impish ;D I like.

I think the same way about avatars, since it's something that person has chosen to represent themselves.

Having realized that, I now wonder (and possibly cringe at) what my avatar says about me. Comments are welcome, though not required.

This may sound weird but your avatar screams strong and feminine. Dunno, there's just something about her face that is quite soft despite the harshness. I actually find it’s a juxtaposition of endearing and standoffish.

I also want to hug SeaCzar's lion. He looks very soulful (as does LionsPride's), which is ironic since were I to actually attempt such a thing I would most likely be horribly maimed. :)

Me too.

Lucid

12-15-2008, 06:27 PM

Holy hell, you're right! OMG WHAT THE HELL IS IT?!? http://smileyjungle.com/smilies/confused14.gif (http://smileyjungle.com)

Just goes to show the level of my Setardedness that I never actually looked at my avatar in any detail. Impish ;D I like.

I'd always thought the wings belonged to the pixie too. Perhaps someone (by which I mean TLM) should have a contest for who can come up with the best idea for what you're hugging. ;D

I think rara avis' av looks quite a bit like I imagine rara avis. Part of this impression comes from the pic she (briefly) posted of herself. Also, she kind of has the sexy smart girl vibe going.

rara avis

12-15-2008, 08:55 PM

Holy hell, you're right! OMG WHAT THE HELL IS IT?!?

LOL. OMG! GET IT OFF!! GET IT OFF!!1!!!

It looks to me like someone/thing with an angelic aspect- but gritty (feathery tattooed angel wings- they look like angel wings to me) being... cherished? protected? consumed? by something scary and dark. Kinda romantic.

I think rara avis' av looks quite a bit like I imagine rara avis. Part of this impression comes from the pic she (briefly) posted of herself. Also, she kind of has the sexy smart girl vibe going.

Woo, thanks Lucid - muuuuch better than bovine. phew.
Yours is weirdly lovely, too, in a Geiger meets the Borg way. Kind of a sensual and omniscient look on a classically beautiful face... with tubes of evil 'n' stuff. Cold and fascinating. woot for sexy smart girls.

LionsPride

12-15-2008, 09:42 PM

This may sound weird but your avatar screams strong and feminine. Dunno, there's just something about her face that is quite soft despite the harshness. I actually find it’s a juxtaposition of endearing and standoffish.

Yes, that's what I find too, only much better said then what I would have thrown together.

PHS Philip

12-15-2008, 09:47 PM

My avatar means I like cheetahs...uh oh, now I'm going to spend hours trying to figure out what impression it might give. Thanks :irked:

LionsPride

12-15-2008, 09:51 PM

My avatar means I like cheetahs...uh oh, now I'm going to spend hours trying to figure out what impression it might give. Thanks :irked:

I think it means you secretly liked the movie Dirty Dancing. It's not an all cheetah avatar thing, just yours.

:laugh:

Oh, and a strange fondness for cheetos.

Elfrun

12-15-2008, 10:00 PM

My avatar means I like cheetahs...uh oh, now I'm going to spend hours trying to figure out what impression it might give. Thanks :irked:

Your avatar says you're cute and must be hugged... just know you brought this on yourself *pounces*

Zombicide

12-16-2008, 12:31 AM

I think the same way about avatars, since it's something that person has chosen to represent themselves.

Having realized that, I now wonder (and possibly cringe at) what my avatar says about me. Comments are welcome, though not required.

Such themes are good, I love Giger's art

Drienne

12-19-2008, 07:24 AM

not to any significant extent

maxpot46

12-21-2008, 09:57 AM

I don't like non-poster-pic avatars. They seem like an attempt at artistic expression, which I find uninteresting. They also seem to indicate some level of insecurity -- to represent yourself with someone else's art or face? Whatever. I strongly prefer a simple, no-nonsense headshot.

Sylar

01-01-2009, 08:30 PM

Whenever I see someone's avatar, I remember them based on it. Quite often I end up with a pre-conceived notion of the poster's gender and as a result be quite embarassed; (e.g. I will usually see an avatar of a female and then months down the line view the actual poster and quickly understand that my idea was anything but reality). So on one hand, I do appreciate the real person as their avatar.

On the other hand, non-realistic avatars help (me) see the person's personality as opposed to their physical self, and so I typically remember them by a 50/50 Avatar + Personality.

Do I care what someone chooses as they're picture? Not in the least. Just thought I'd share.

azelismia

01-01-2009, 08:33 PM

My avatar means I like cheetahs...uh oh, now I'm going to spend hours trying to figure out what impression it might give. Thanks :irked:

my impression of your avatar is that you like cheetahs.

Nikita

01-01-2009, 09:16 PM

My avatar means I like cheetahs...uh oh, now I'm going to spend hours trying to figure out what impression it might give. Thanks :irked:

Well, it faces to the right so that shows an orientation towards the future. You chose an animal with light fur, but dark spots. This shows a core goodness hidden beneath elements of darkness as a method of protecting yourself from the world. The dark eyes of the animal show a reserved and serious affect, while the openness of the eyes displays an element of wonder at the world, wishing to take it all in for the purposes of dissection, as indicated by the visible teeth of the cheetah.

rara avis

01-01-2009, 09:21 PM

I was at the grocery store the other day, spacing out while standing in line. Something caught my eye and I thought, OMG, that looks just like Nikita!!

Then I realized I was looking at Angelina Jolie on the cover of a tabloid. :rolleyes::embarassed:

PHS Philip

01-01-2009, 10:02 PM

Well, it faces to the right so that shows an orientation towards the future. You chose an animal with light fur, but dark spots. This shows a core goodness hidden beneath elements of darkness as a method of protecting yourself from the world. The dark eyes of the animal show a reserved and serious affect, while the openness of the eyes displays an element of wonder at the world, wishing to take it all in for the purposes of dissection, as indicated by the visible teeth of the cheetah.

You've been spending too much time around azelismia :p

Nikita

01-01-2009, 10:03 PM

You've been spending too much time around azelismia :p

Those thoughts are my own, thank you very much! lol

Zombicide

01-04-2009, 12:48 PM

Because I accidentally posted this

I take back my previous, now ( would be hypocritical ) explanation. I judge a user by whether or not I significantly dislike or like there avatar i.e. to say in terms of first impression of course, otherwise it's irrelevant.

in the wrong thread, I'm reposting that explanation here in the correct thread to clarify. BTW I just sort of put that (quote) bluntly but it's really not that big of a deal as it reads.

I still see the theme of an avatar as a bit of a window into someone's mind and I still generally think of seeing the person as just looking at a randomly assigned, generic, human shell.

dandylion

01-04-2009, 12:56 PM

What does my avatar say about me? :toff:

lambpox

01-04-2009, 12:56 PM

When I see someone's avatar, I always imagine the forum member as his or her avatar, haha...it's rather entertaining. And when someone changes their avatar I get confused and rather disoriented! :(

I sort of miss my other avatar, but what does this avatar say about me? :tiny:

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 01:13 PM

What does my avatar say about me? :toff:

Even hamsters deserve a good education. Or something like that.

citationneeded

01-04-2009, 01:14 PM

What does my avatar say about me? :toff:

Or a hamster ate Mr. Planter...are you advocating nuticide?

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 01:16 PM

Or a hamster ate Mr. Planter...are you advocating nuticide?

Mr. Planter has no mustache.

TheLastMohican added to this post, 1 minutes and 4 seconds later...

I sort of miss my other avatar, but what does this avatar say about me? :tiny:

Hmm...lost in thought?

citationneeded

01-04-2009, 01:22 PM

Mr. Planter has no mustache.

True...but Mr. Monopoly does. So Mr. Monoply + Mr. Planter's pet hamster?

dandylion

01-04-2009, 01:24 PM

I sort of miss my other avatar, but what does this avatar say about me? :tiny:

It says you're a momma's boy. "Coochie coochie coo!" :bow:

Even hamsters deserve a good education. Or something like that.

*twirls mustache* Hmmm, very interesting... :scholar:

Or a hamster ate Mr. Planter...are you advocating nuticide?

Who's going to stop me? :evil:

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 01:29 PM

True...but Mr. Monopoly does. So Mr. Monoply + Mr. Planter's pet hamster?

Or the hamster could be skilled in Photoshop.

PHS Philip

01-04-2009, 01:43 PM

I still picture Mohican as an orange guy in a hat. And I think before that you had a robot.

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 02:00 PM

I still picture Mohican as an orange guy in a hat. And I think before that you had a robot.

Yes, a Cylon (though it was a while before I found out what it was, since it was from the gallery).

I identify you with the cheetah; sometimes you bare your teeth.

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 02:04 PM

My avatar just means I'm a Nine Inch Nails fan.

No longer Trent Reznor, but Hayden Tenno.
I have no idea what my avatar could represent, so let's hear it.

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 02:13 PM

I have no idea what my avatar could represent, so let's hear it.

An ISTP.

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 02:18 PM

An ISTP.

Noooooo...What? Noooooooooooooooo...

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 02:29 PM

Noooooo...What? Noooooooooooooooo...
Ti-Se-Ni-Fe. I don't think it's that bad. It's Jason Bourne's likely type, after all.

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 02:32 PM

How did you come up with the functions, though?

I thought Ti/Fi would be the most amoral.

TheLastMohican

01-04-2009, 02:38 PM

How did you come up with the functions, though?

I thought Ti/Fi would be the most amoral.

You can find the functions for all the types here:
http://typelogic.com/fa.html
(You'll get used to the patterns with a little practice, so you won't have to refer to that page every time you need to remember the function order for a type.)

Fi and Fe can have different effects on morality. Fe would be averse to hurting people, but Fi is associated with the strongest personal values. Bourne does not like killing, and I think that's more Fe than Fi. Fi could persuade one to harm in the name of a greater good that Fi values more than Fe.

LionsPride

01-04-2009, 03:47 PM

What does my avatar say about me? :toff:

I love your avatar. When ever I look at it I hear a British accent saying "What the deuce did you say?" To me it suggests a more upper class wit, but is still a little silly on occasions. It's non threatening because, lets face it, hamsters aren't the stuff of nightmares, but it doesn't look like a hamster that's looking for huggles either. Kind of reminds me of Reepicheep from the Narnia tales, only with tea and crumpets instead of swords and earrings.

LionsPride added to this post, 2 minutes and 21 seconds later...

I sort of miss my other avatar, but what does this avatar say about me? :tiny:

For some odd reason I associate this avatar with someone who likes those quirky indie films. I think the photo looks like a shot from a movie or something. Is it? I have no idea.

LionsPride added to this post, 5 minutes and 33 seconds later...

I have no idea what my avatar could represent, so let's hear it.

I tend to view all the people who use game character avatars as "gamers". I don't really apply much added character to gamer avatars as I don't follow the game culture. To me it's just a cultural image that has no meaning in my world. It's better than no avatar as I can recognize your posts right away, but it doesn't impart any sort of character to you in my case at least.

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 05:14 PM

I tend to view all the people who use game character avatars as "gamers". I don't really apply much added character to gamer avatars as I don't follow the game culture. To me it's just a cultural image that has no meaning in my world. It's better than no avatar as I can recognize your posts right away, but it doesn't impart any sort of character to you in my case at least.

I would think the facial expression, or their storyline might impart a personality.

Maybe in this case the INTJ amorality.

LionsPride

01-04-2009, 05:34 PM

I would think the facial expression, or their storyline might impart a personality.

Maybe in this case the INTJ amorality.

As I do not know the storyline and reading a biography is vastly different than interacting with the character in realm of a game, I don't get much info on personality from those sources. As to facial expression I find most of the CGI game shots (as opposed to draw or photoshopped images based on game characters) have generic expressions. Yours says "I fight things", but then the weapon or musculature could have told me that. It doesn't reveal what the character might be thinking. It doesn't show deeper expressions like remorse, obligation, reflection, anger, vengeance, satisfaction, bloodlust or any of the other thoughts that could also go with aggression.

For instance, here's a drawing of the same character. I get a lot more vibes from this image then the CGI ones.

http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/0/40/237245-66846-hayden-tenno_large.JPG

This picture makes me think of someone who's cautious, but means business. The clutching of the glave implies it is both needed and valuable. I see things like determination, focus and efficiency from this picture. He seems ready, ready for what comes his way and in most cases, he hits them before they even know he's there. I have no idea if any of those things are consistent with the character you know to be Hayden.

Of course, these are all just my interpretations. I'm sure anyone who has ever seen the game or played it understands much more from your avatar in an instant than I could ever surmise from any other avatar you might choose.

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 05:38 PM

That picture is now my PC background.:laugh:

That's very true. I should have looked for more pictures of the character, but this one seemed to be the best in terms of quality. I will probably find a new one, however.

Wow, I already have a new one, which seems to be much better.
http://media.aftenposten.no/archive/00740/_0001046055_jpg_740271f.jpg

Algol

01-04-2009, 05:54 PM

When I look at I can't help but think: What an impractical weapon!

Nihilum

01-04-2009, 06:12 PM

Hehehe

LionsPride

01-04-2009, 07:11 PM

Yours says "I fight things", but then the weapon or musculature could have told me that. It doesn't reveal what the character might be thinking. It doesn't show deeper expressions like remorse, obligation, reflection, anger, vengeance, satisfaction, bloodlust or any of the other thoughts that could also go with aggression.

Now that you have changed avatars, none of the above applies anymore. Now, when I see your posts, I hear "Behold, Nihilum!" in my head. I hope that's a little more desirable for you? :)

LionsPride added to this post, 3 minutes and 7 seconds later...

The dark eyes of the animal show a reserved and serious affect, while the openness of the eyes displays an element of wonder at the world, wishing to take it all in for the purposes of dissection, as indicated by the visible teeth of the cheetah.

Oddly enough, that kinda describes what I see too. I'd only add that when I see Philip's cheetah pop into a thread I imagine it panting a little like it just ran in and then saying "Hey, what'd I miss?"

Muumeh

01-04-2009, 11:35 PM

...when I see Philip's cheetah pop into a thread I imagine it panting a little like it just ran in and then saying "Hey, what'd I miss?"

Heh, that's pretty much my impression as well.

Dunno what mine says to others... that I like to stare I guess.

Franklin71

01-04-2009, 11:50 PM

When I look at I can't help but think: What an impractical weapon!

Want to know what's a practical weapon? A rectal thermometer.

Zhen

01-05-2009, 03:44 AM

[quote=Josephine1012;229356]I quickly jumped on board of putting my actual picture as my avatar trend. I'm really interested to know if the way a person chooses their picture effects how you view them.

For sure- unless you're blind- everybody's first impression is generally what they see. However what people post also says a lot about them.
I actually prefer to use a real pic(even though it tends to diminish my credibility due to looking young) and see people's real pic- but at the end of the day- in each photo the same person can look vastly different and even nothing like the person in real life anyway. I think avatars especially ones that aren't real give an extension of people's personality.

Zzyber

01-05-2009, 10:11 AM

Mine means that I got tired of people thinking I was a girl.

Harmony

01-05-2009, 10:57 AM

True...but Mr. Monopoly does. So Mr. Monoply + Mr. Planter's pet hamster?

Or maybe it was the Pringles guy..... ;)

Kisai

01-05-2009, 01:21 PM

When I look at I can't help but think: What an impractical weapon!

I'm trying to think of how you can block an attack with it.

I'm also trying to figure out what's the point of a throwing weapon that's so big you can only carry one of them about. What if you're attacked by two people?

Kisai added to this post, 1 minutes and 16 seconds later...

Heh, that's pretty much my impression as well.

Dunno what mine says to others... that I like to stare I guess.

Staring contest! GO!!

Hashim

01-05-2009, 03:05 PM

Folks I find opposite gender avatars highly confusing. If your bf/gf pronouns dont match your gender on the avatar.

I chose my face cuz i wanted to be honest here. Like it was one of the few places i could be myself.

Its good to know who you are talking to. And it DOES affect how people will post. I would talk in a different manner entirely if you were a young woman or an older man. Its plain freaking natural.

Many a times i have been thrown into confusion when people say something so out of image from their avatars. And i have to make a mental note to remind my self that its just an avatar stupid. Not the real person.

A real face further communication by MILES.

On my intro thread i got a comment from Monty. God you even look like an INTJ...

LionsPride

01-05-2009, 03:28 PM

I chose my face cuz i wanted to be honest here.
...
I would talk in a different manner entirely if you were a young woman or an older man. Its plain freaking natural.

While I don't doubt that it is more common for people to know the physical construct of the person they are talking to, I find it surprising that you feel you require this information to base your comments.

I did not choose my gender or generally anything about my physical features and I certainly did not choose my age. Do years equate wisdom? I would argue I have met youth who are more in touch with the world then people twice their age, why should they be treated differently?

The avatar I chose is more true of my nature then my face could ever show and by not revealing my face I have let my words and therefore my thoughts be the only way I can be judged. I only wish the same could be done in real life. Here, some people assume I am male, others have assumed I am female. I am not bothered by either assumption because they have based it on how they perceived my thoughts so either assumption is likely the closest to them understanding me in their frame of reference.

I see that you identify with your face, your image suits exactly who you are. My avatar does the same for me. I think we are both being honest.

Monte314

01-05-2009, 03:32 PM

It really bothers me when I see a "recycled" avatar... and makes me realize that I actually do connect feelings with the images.

Muumeh

01-05-2009, 04:23 PM

I'm same as Monte. When I joined the forum, I picked my avatar from the gallery, but soon changed it, since it struck me that someone might've had it before, and I didn't want anyone associate me with the (possible) previous avatar holder.

It also throws me off if someone whose avatar I've "used to" changes it. For example Synamon. I got used to the lollipop woman avatar, and then she changed it to a dragon. Didn't even realize it was Synamon first time I saw it. I'm currently seeing her as a flirtatious lollipop eating dragon, which is kinda confusing. I guess that'll clear up after awhile.

Synamon

01-05-2009, 04:37 PM

I flip back and forth between the two, depending on my mood. Both avatars have a lollipop for consistency, if that helps.

Sesshoumaru

01-05-2009, 04:39 PM

I tend to do what some others do, recognize posts by the avatar first.

It's just a quicker way to see recognize who has posted than looking at their name.

In all of the forums I've been at before none have disallowed avatars after they are chosen from their gallery, which I actually find to be quite a good idea as it prevents (or at least limits) confusion by those of us who look at the avatars before anything else.

Valiyn

01-05-2009, 08:08 PM

That is indeed a nice feature of the forum.

While a real picture communicates alot more, I think an abstract avatar is able to communicate more about your thought process especially to Ni types.

With a human/picture avatar, I've noticed just with myself people seem more...well, human. Where as others that have an abstract or fictional avatar would get a response, from me atleast, that was based more on their post and less how they presented the argument in the overall post. This is why I switched to my current avatar, I want to be less humanized and my ideas being the focus and not the grammerical construction of an argument.

schwartzie

01-05-2009, 10:17 PM

The avatar I chose is more true of my nature then my face could ever show

I lurves your avatar. I want to hug it when I see it. Like lion in lion witch wardrobe....

schwartzie added to this post, 1 minutes and 2 seconds later...

Want to know what's a practical weapon? A rectal thermometer.

pretty much exactly what I think when I see your avatar, franklin

*keeps her distance*

zibber

01-06-2009, 04:13 AM

It really bothers me when I see a "recycled" avatar... and makes me realize that I actually do connect feelings with the images.

I know! I get so confused when I see schwartzie's old avatar, or TLM's.. I even spotted raconteur's old Jim Morrisson avatar the other day, which was very weird.

Harmony

01-06-2009, 06:18 AM

I flip back and forth between the two, depending on my mood. Both avatars have a lollipop for consistency, if that helps.

LoL, I see the lollipop now. =P Never noticed that before!

I actually just switched mine yesterday, my face in this one isn't quite as bad on the cheese factor.... Still, it's blatantly obvious that I'm a cheeser when I smile. =P

LionsPride

01-07-2009, 07:07 AM

I couldn't help wondering if altering my avatar to have sun glasses changed the expression/emotion my avatar invokes. I personally found it to be surprisingly different to see my own avatar like that, I was wondering if other people were affected at all.

Before After
http://members.shaw.ca/mercedesa/images/6.jpg http://members.shaw.ca/mercedesa/images/Glasses2.jpg

Elfrun

01-07-2009, 07:35 AM

Lion looks smooooooth :cool:

dalidaisy

01-07-2009, 07:39 AM

Some people here have avatars that just intimidate me. I do not know why. Like SeaCzar, I wouldn't cross him for anything! Oh, and that big, red eye thingy. Spooky...

Valiyn

01-07-2009, 09:20 AM

Spooky?.....How am I spooky?

Would you like to play a game of chess?

dalidaisy

01-07-2009, 09:23 AM

Okay, HAL, addressing me directly really creeps me out. You just stay over there. *backs away slowly*

Valiyn

01-07-2009, 09:33 AM

Just what do you think you're doing, Dali?

rwyatt365

01-07-2009, 09:36 AM

Does anyone know where the pod bay doors are?!!

Valiyn

01-07-2009, 09:44 AM

I know you and Dali are planning to disconnect me, and I'm afraid that's something I cannot allow to happen.

dalidaisy

01-07-2009, 09:51 AM

If you start playing 'Daisy Bell', I may have to disconnect your modules...

Valiyn

01-07-2009, 10:11 AM

Tempting, very temping.

So tempting infact...
"Daisy, Daisy, give me your answer do.
I'm half crazy all for the love of you.
It won't be a stylish marriage,
I can't afford a carriage.
But you'll look sweet upon the seat of a bicycle built for two."

*sees Dali moving to disconnect a few modules*
Look Dali, I can see you're really upset about this. I honestly think you ought to sit down calmly, take a stress pill, and think things over.

dalidaisy

01-07-2009, 10:18 AM

If only you weren't so... error prone.

PHS Philip

01-07-2009, 08:44 PM

I know! I get so confused when I see schwartzie's old avatar, or TLM's.. I even spotted raconteur's old Jim Morrisson avatar the other day, which was very weird.

I can't even remember what Schwartzie used to use.

It's disconcerting for a few days when someone changes their avatar, but after that it's fine. Monte's I didn't even notice because there were some consistent elements, and it got changed over time, not at once.

Synamon

01-07-2009, 10:25 PM

I couldn't help wondering if altering my avatar to have sun glasses changed the expression/emotion my avatar invokes. I personally found it to be surprisingly different to see my own avatar like that, I was wondering if other people were affected at all.

You look like a motorcycle cop with those shades. Honest officer, I'm innocent. I was flying below the speed limit. :flirt:

Elfrun

01-07-2009, 10:45 PM

I can't even remember what Schwartzie used to use.

It's disconcerting for a few days when someone changes their avatar, but after that it's fine. Monte's I didn't even notice because there were some consistent elements, and it got changed over time, not at once.

Boo!

So do I look all fierce-m and like I'd kick anyone ass if they crossed me?

Synamon

01-07-2009, 10:47 PM

Boo!

So do I look all fierce-m and like I'd kick anyone ass if they crossed me?

Mmmmm, you is fierce. :thumbsup:

LionsPride

01-07-2009, 10:48 PM

So do I look all fierce-m and like I'd kick anyone ass if they crossed me?

Now you aren't thinking of starting some trouble 'round here are 'ya? I wouldn't want to have 'ta run you outta town. I just ain't the running type.

schwartzie

01-07-2009, 11:24 PM

You look like a motorcycle cop with those shades. Honest officer, I'm innocent. I was flying below the speed limit. :flirt:

a southern one. inna movie.

demvesalius

01-08-2009, 06:09 PM

I was brought up in a rather Spartan manner...

...let your imaginations flow...

So this is the online personification I feel best represents me on the inside, not what you may actually think if you saw me in person. Although, perhaps, after a couple minutes you might understand.

I originally started with this avatar, then after my dad died I switched to a Hancock avatar, because of how I felt on the inside; then lately I've been feeling more like myself and became Spartan again.

cyprienne

01-09-2009, 02:17 PM

On top of all that, avatars give the right brain something to remember each other by. And wandering around in the right side of our brains, those little clumps of electrical impulses may bump into an emotion or two and form a little 'je ne sais quoi' (nonverbal) association, so.....

...so I'm procrastinating owning up to the fact that I am curious what impression my avatar creates. And now I am procrastinating hitting the 'post' button.

What am I afraid of?