Like the tool I linked to, I think it would be a large step forward for Mlem if it could better handle images. Currently, images seem to be cropped to the center with no intelligence and make opening the image a requirement or something the user is dissuaded from doing. I know it’s a bigger ask, but someone’s gotta do it.
Not sure why you have a problem with acceptability here. The app is currently deciding to crop to a square aspect ratio and focus the center as the preview. Besides, the full image is currently accessible and that would be no different with smarter cropping. This AI-based cropping would help regain some of the original creators intent which is what you’re advocating for, but for some reason also called it terrible.