That's what I've been doing....writing about personal topics, and including real photos of me in my posts. You'll find a lot of photos of me peppered through most of my posts, in fact (there's even one of my wedding, but everyone except our officiant has their backs to the camera in that one, to protect their privacy). I use clip art, too, but I'm not shying away from including personal photos, either.

I also write on personal things....weird things that have happened to me, things I do that are outside the "norm" of society, and my opinions/beliefs on things. I've got a lot of odd tales to tell that can be backed up with photographic evidence. :)

In my two weeks on Steemit, I've developed a small following of people who give me very positive comments on my writing, and with whom I enjoy interacting. A couple of my posts have even done really well, $$$-wise. While not every post has been a three-figure earner, nor do I expect them to be, it's nice when it happens, and I think it will happen more the more quality, relatable, and/or interesting content I post, and as long as I keep writing real things in my authentic voice.

I comment a lot, too, and (as you can see), my comments are sometimes almost as long as my posts. I think focusing on quality, original, sometimes personal content, and participating with others by following them and commenting on their content, as well as upvoting good content, is the key to eventually having a strong presence and equally strong income here. Plus, the more you participate, the more cool people you meet! :)