ratings etc on flickr may seem weird but remember what things affect the algorithm. Views are just one aspect but it also looks at tags, captions, how many sets you have, how many pictures in each set etc. If you never use tags, never insert a caption, have few images in a set and keep your images marked 'private' for friends and family only, you will never be 'explored' or make it on to the ranking in any form. It is like
SEO 