The process is only as complicated and convoluted as people choose to make it. From the uploads page you only have to browse and choose up to 5 files to upload at one time, but you are asked if there are more you would like to upload. To post an image you use the information sent to you in the confirmation email and add your email and file name, along with adding the image tags (though the forums software will do that for you).

People are more than welcome to use your own space to store your files and link to them. There are many of the "free" storage sites that will not allow you to link directly to an image or will periodically shut down your links if they are used too much. After all, their intent is to sell you prints not provide free storage. The free storage space is made available courtesy of the Collector Forums for our members to use so that folks are able to share images if they choose.