Forums linked to real-world activities, with people posting real pictures, are doing fine. For example I'm on several car forums and life is all good there.

Bonus when there are "verified members" zones: for example on a car forum where another owner of a car of the same brand has to vet you in, certifying he saw you in real-life with a car from that brand.

> Curation seems like the next best step.

I don't disagree.