I understand that concept. It's the only reason I make Riverdale icons, tbh. It's got equally atrocious lighting conditions, but I have icon needs for muses of mine (and my slp).
And I also understand craving validation because that's basically me always.
I'm glad you don't hate these now, though, because they're really good. Like 'I already have all the icon slots on my Alec muse filled but I'm saving these for future use anyway and linked the set to my friend who uses him for a pb' type really good. <3