I can't say that wanting pics or better yet a webcam is superficial. Especially if you are planning to move to real time. For the most part, humans are visual creatures. Attraction is important. It's not the most important thing or even the thing that will sustain a relationship. But for me... no spark of attraction means that the passion doesn't get ignited.

I don't demand GQ and I have a wide range of types of men I find attractive, but I do have 2 absolute physical requirements. The guy has to be taller and if I can't look at him then I'm sure as hell not going to kiss him.

To me, it's just a simple function of attraction. Yes there are many things to be attracted to and many inner qualities that will make a person more attractive, but without that inititial spark, there isn't much to build on.