Is a simple photo on a guide truly standardizes the act of going to the American Southwest, especially when one must go through an approval process for sites like The Wave?
The mandate of the Bureau of Land Management for permit lotteries is very strict and does not depend at all on visual inspiration.
To get a permit for The Wave, one must participate in a lottery months in advance, and most people are prohibited from entering the first time, regardless of motivation.
Inspiration is good, but regulatory compliance dictates the reality of the visit.