That sounds like a very tactful and sensible way of doing it. It doesn't sound rude at all.

If you do a bit of research you may well find that some photo companies do a number of free prints when you sign up, (in the UK there are so many that I doubt I will ever have to pay for a photo again) - if you can find one that does you can find a picture on Google images and get it printed, and use that.

Otherwise, I'd just carry on doing what you're doing - good luck!

The only pictures I usually have are from magazines (non-cover). I've been sending a 3x5 blank card but asking in my letter of request for a picture if they kindly have one. I was wondering because my intentions are not to come across as rude.
Thank you for the site. I actually have fun checking the mail nowadays in suspense. I'm hoping one of these days someone may actually write me a note or letter back, but that may be wishful thinking.

Regards.
-S