I recently went through video verification.  Normally, I wouldn't do this out of paranoia that the video would be recorded on her end (akin to having a copy of a photo ID).  However, I did appreciate the direct interaction and the fact she didn't obscure her face at all made me feel more comfortable.  I dunno. It was my first one.  

Anyway, I agree with you on being able to get a better sense of what the other person is like.