When asking your friends to send you more pictures, you might say something like, Hey, I really enjoy seeing updates from your life through pictures. It helps me feel more connected to you even when we're not able to hang out in person. I hope that's okay, and please don't feel like you have to send me anything if you don't want to. This way, you're expressing your feelings and desires without coming across as pushy or strange.
It's important to remember that everyone has different communication styles and comfort levels when it comes to sharing personal details and images. Some people may be more open to sharing than others, and that's okay. If your friends don't respond positively to your request, try not to take it personally. Instead, focus on finding other ways to stay connected and strengthen your relationships. You might ask them about their interests, hobbies, or recent experiences, and see if you can find common ground to bond over. Building strong, meaningful connections takes time and effort, but it's worth it in the end.