[Fricken]

I doubt he chose the photo. While a great writer, Coupland is a bit shy & awkward as a speaker.

[Declanomous]

I understand that he didn't choose the photo, but the body language strikes me strange, what with the arms outstretched. I'm probably being a bit harsh, because it's not his event, and he didn't set up the stage, or the lighting.

Regardless, I view speakers who make gestures like that with skepticism, since I associate the posture with grandiose self-interest.

[geoka9]

I've no idea about the guy, but photos from live events can be very out-of-context, so I wouldn't put too much weight in this.

[Declanomous]

That's fair, but the context I'm using is the rest of the article, which is rather grandiose itself.