Hello everyone in the mingle community, not only is this my first time to mingle, it is my first shot at online dating. It is exciting as well as a little intimidating, but i'm finding it hard to meet nice women. So mingle it is. I'm not sure about the etiquette of messaging someone i'm interested in. Is a simple hello enough to get the conversation started or should I explain why they caught my eye. Maybe a nice compliment? As you can tell i'm kind of lost, so any advice or guidance would be most appreciated.

Probably have better luck if you don't use a photo that suggests you have a female in your life.

I agree with pacific.
Jump into the forums and make some friends.
Welcome to mingle2.

Welcome, and yeah, even if that's your sister.... Get a pic of JUST YOU.
As for writing to ladies, no just "Hello". Those are the first to get ignored. Yes, compliments are good but not if you are just going to say how pretty the gal is because...we are so much better than just pretty. Compliment something about what's in her profile or say how much you enjoy something you have in common that's in her profile.
Also, most women will suspect you may be a scammer if you try to get them to communicate off of the site too quickly. Build an online rapport first, then offer to do chat or make calls.
Always, always...be a gentleman first. You get what you give.
Ooooops, I forgot!!! Be okay with and prepared to get ignored or shot down. Just like you are visual, women are too, and you just may not be their speed in looks or values.

1. Pics of just you.

2. Use the forum.

3. Don't be impatient if things don't go as fast as you would like

4. Don't get discouraged

5. Stay away from the lawn gnomes

Welcome to the site.

Thank you to all who replied, and in hindsight, DUH! on the pic. once again thanks alot.