Hi Mark,

>> My take on it though is that while your intentions are admirable,
>> I think you may be overthinking this.

My take on managing a new business is to be as prepared as one can be. I realize that my question may be seen as "overkill" or "irrelevant" or "a waste of time" by some, but my question is sincere, and at least *I* think it is important.

The issue here is not only one of identity-on-the-net (in terms of risking being accused of being a fraud). The issue is also about one's own ability to (and one's comfortability with) shifting one's online identity. As if that weren't enough, we also have the important issue of PROFITABILITY: can we afford NOT to use a photo on our site? (see post below to Lynn).

>> I'm a firm believer in the use of pen names. It just makes sense to keep
>> from having all your eggs in one basket. At the very least, if one pen
>> name's reputation tanks, then you can use another.

OK, it's a good argument.

>> But regarding the photo, I would avoid doing any 3D representation
>> or trying to modify a photo of yourself. That would look too shady to me.

Certainly!

>> If you have totally different affiliate markets, what are the chances
>> that someone is going to say, "Hey, I recognize that guy from that other site."
>> If you're keeping your subscriber lists separate, then the risk
>> of that happening is greatly reduced.

Yes. All subscriber lists MUST be separate, so the risk certainly would be reduced.

Thanks again, Mark!
Bo