When it comes to what anyone finds attractive I think saying "most people" is never a good idea.
What's with the dichotomies? I didn't say I'd prefer old and ugly romantic options. Just because you're not some unscarred flower doesn't mean you're hideous, and looking older than 18 doesn't mean you're a crone. I personally wouldn't consider Jaheira super attractive and super young, but she's got a pretty viable romance, even if being a fighter means she's probably got some nasty scars. So the assumption that a romanceable female has to be elvish and a mage because nothing else is good enough -- never mind that armourless mages can get pretty knocked around also -- is kind of silly. (Yes, Jaheira's a half-elf, but that was probably for multi-classing purposes rather than because it means she's hotter. Also, Harpers and half-elves go together.)
You're implying that only I think Elfs or Mages can be "attractive or viable romance options" Which I never said or implied...All I said is that most people would want them to be cute / pretty / hot /youngish etc...Personally, I find Jaheria quite attractive and not just because she is half an Elf. Also, the scars would not bother me either on her or anyone else most likely.
When I said "Old" I meant like 50 + (in human years at least) I am talking Keldorn age like here...
They could have shaken things up a bit and had a romanceable female orc for once. Even a full fighter class female of any race would have been a nice change.
Maybe it's just me but I find the idea that they based the portrait on a woman they know somewhat creepy.Neera's portrait was drawn based on the picture of a friend of one of Beamdog's employees, so that face belongs to a real-world person. I don't recall anyone complaining about that when it was done for BG1. Just for your information.