Sorry Jack, I can see how the Private set up is never going to suit everyone, I know for example that Simon isn't exactly a big fan of it either.

However, that came about due to various members on other similar sites, requesting some form of privacy, in order that they might post photos of their rather expensive musical instruments, for the benefit of genuine like-minded enthusiasts.

The members, so far, seem to be far more interested in networking with like-minded enthusiasts, than displaying their wares to every Tom, Dick & Harry, (no offence to Tom & Harry) who might stumble upon the site.

The fact is, there is a system built into the site, which means that members can choose to display their photos to everyone, or just their friends or just themselves. However, they prefer to have a belt & braces set up.

From my own point of view, I have in the past been forced to shut down two similar forums!
This was because I foolishly left those completely open, with the result that SPAM Heads moved in & completely destroyed them both!

So, if you know the sort of work that goes into setting up a site & maintaining it, you will perhaps appreciate why I'm simply just not prepared to take that chance again.

If that means a slightly quieter website, then so be it.

Cheers
Dick