With cis providers, they usually have a screening process and they will call references or other means and I can understand that. I think it's mainly to make sure the client is not LE or violent. It provides security for them. However with many of the higher end trans providers I find that they require a picture in order for them to see you. I don't get the picture requirement. It doesn't do anything with regards to security. I recently failed at the last second to get to see a beautiful TS porn star because I would not send her my photo.  What is the point of the photo requirement? What does it accomplish for them?

This topic was touched upon in a discussion thread a few weeks ago regarding verification. (I've linked to that thread below). Here was my 2 cents from that thread when it came to photos:

"my fav verification method is a reference from another provider (and vast majority of time we do help each other that way). which is why its really helpful if a new client pre-books so that i can reach out to other provider and she has time to reply.
when it comes to new client pics, my message server actually blocks images/vids from making it to me from a number not in my contacts. i do that because i'm way too concerned with underage peeps sending me something. i want no part of that!
bottom line is that pic of a new client is very low, if not superfluous, to a screening decision by me."

i hope that is helpful.
warmest hugs,
kacy

Send the pic so you can get the dick!  

Its that simple. Sorry you missed out on that one.

From my perspective here's what I've experienced and recommend (some info may be redundant):

1. Since social media has become so popular and younger people especially women give it so much credibility, there will probably be a growing trend for photo verification, even a short video clip.  

2. Having said that while it can pose a breach in your privacy and or security use alias emails, burn numbers and pictures that aren't popular ones of yours.  

3. Alias emails are something you can create with gmail and other services that isn't linked to your personal devices or browsers, big brother does connect more than we think, luckily that's private though and others can't get to it.  

4. Burn numbers are an alias phone number you can get on your phone some are free some are a few bucks a month. You can talk, text and send imagery with most of them. If something comes up you can simply burn the number and get a new one.  

5. Personal imagry; don't send images you have on social media, Facebook, Linkdin, Instagram etc. Why, becasue people can do a google image search or a more invasive one and find you on social media. Take a few pics privately, make a 5-10 sec video saying hello or something.  

6. I've had 2 escorts (both a genetic girl and trans) try to blackmail me with a photo I sent and the number. Luckily I used a burner number and they weren't able to use the pictures to search for my identity.  

7. Depending on how specific some providers are about what to send remember you can take it or leave it. Don't let the little guy do most of the thinking, some girls are simply NOT worth it.  

8. You can also turn the tables if they ask for what you feel is excessive, tell them you will comply with their request but would like to video chat before meeting or something they have to do to verify themselves also.  

All in all that's why they call it a hobby, stay safe and have fun!!        

The answer I’ve always heard is that it’s for their security. That they are a good judge of character based on face and voice, and faster than verifying references. A quick video call is often accepted in lieu of the photo, in my experience.  

Even more extreme security measure: a TS provider in Oakland area asks for a photo of your drivers license. (!!) Similar to some AAMPs, so not unheard of.

If a provider has your photo, you’re more likely to behave like a gentleman. And less likely to write a bad review.

It's really not about safety, many have told me they don't want to end up with a fat old guy. In most cases, there aren't many options to make good money elsewhere unlike a genetic woman. Instead of treating this as a business or side hustle, like many genetic women providers, this is an actual lifestyle for many trans providers. Plus, if they're spending so much on themselves to look like an attractive woman, they often want attractive in-shape customers. Most guys don't take trans women seriously for dating, unlike genetic women, so they want attractive guys. I would say this applies to at least half of the trans providers I've met and spoken to. A good note, the ones that don't care about a picture are often more down to earth.  

Be cautious with a trans or any provider who's asking for pictures but doesn't have any reviews or nothing comes up if you google search the number or google search the images. They may be trying to blackmail people after they receive pictures, it's happened to me. Also, unless you've seen someone previously, don't send any nudes or images that could incriminate you. A face shot, a torso shot like in a swimsuit etc., something that could bound on social media. So if they try something you can claim they got the pictures from your social media. As always play safe...