I am a VIP member. I can't tell if you're male or female, so my apologies. The females tend to get more attention, or so I'm told. I am female and I have a number of pen pals right now. So yes, a picture helps. It also helps to write something quirky or unique or simply funny in your profile. I've been told a number of times that my profile is one of the more interesting ones on the site. If someone has something funny in their profile, I am a lot more likely to add them. Also, writing something interesting or unusual in your profile helps give others a place to start when they message you for the first time. There is a search function where you can look for men/women/both, limit the age range, etc. If you're a guy, be prepared for the solicitations for money and marriage. If you're a female, be prepared for the guys to hit on you and tell you that you're beautiful while asking for more pictures. Don't feel bad about ignoring people, as I do it all the time. Well, not *all* the time, but when people are rude or send obvious copy/paste messages, you don't owe them a response. Most people are nice, but there are a few bad apples.

I hope this helps. Do you have any other questions?