mparker,

What I interpret your saying is that each of us beginners may have to re-invent the wheel for himself and that there is nothing that may be learned by looking at edges or pictures of edges. It may be thus.

However, I had two razors delivered to me yesterday. They were new and sharpened by Mr. Abrams so I could look at and shave with edges honed by an expert's hand. From looking at those edges compared to the ones I have worked on, I believe I have learned something: my edges, so far, have apparently not been taken far enough to create the correct starting bevel. Pictures may not show all, but I think they can be used as a tool to help perfect technique. Thus, I think I have learned something.

Bruce