I think it's essential and kind of wish it was required to even register on the site, especially in these times. Some sites are more casual and porn-y and others, like this one, are more community-driven; if you aren't prepared to make even a very modest effort to establish your authenticity, well...it isn't worth the risk, for me. I constantly worry about underage and nebulous characters on here, I don't want to see anyone's revenge porn and while a quick verification photo doesn't prevent all of that, it is a major help in establishing a sense of trust, a modicum of safety and belonging on LPSG. My two cents.