You can post the images now, but as you stated, they won’t be visible to others straight-off until you become a Jr. Member (or acquire a Copper Membership). People can still see the link, and if I recall correctly, they’ll see the images if they quote your post or browse your posting history.
There's no mistaking it, you've said it right. The OP can post an image but as long as the rank is not a Jr Member then it will only show as a link, but the OP and others will see the image on the post history.
But by the way, the OP
has posted a image today. So I think it is time to lock this thread.