A flattering image is not always a faithful one.

Images can be kind and inaccurate at the same time. A photograph chosen because it makes someone look their best may show a version they do not recognize. The flattery can quietly say that the real face needed improving. This applies to profiles, obituaries, brochures and the picture on the mantelpiece equally. Being represented accurately is often more valuable than being represented well.

When choosing an image of someone, ask whether it looks like them rather than whether it is impressive. Where you can, let them pick the one they feel is true.