It's entirely possible they couldn't take a new picture until coming home from work, and have no sense of time of possession. I wouldn't worry about it; in the end, only an in-person inspection matters.
Shame about the pockmarks, but a colored OTG 18 that isn't $120 (cost when new, right?) is a nice catch.
I normally won't try to negotiate until I show up. My expectation, usually correct, is that I'll get a small discount, not some huge percentage off. I'm not going to show up only to ask someone for half off or whatever.
In my experience that's more powerful to point out deficiencies in person. Maybe mention offhandedly how long or how many miles it took to get there. I've read plenty of listings where the seller specifically says not to ask them about price until showing up, because otherwise they'd be negotiating with themselves. And that's true. They wanna know if you're serious with cash in hand, and that requires showing up.
That's a new copper in the background. Might have been a decent conversation (bonding) opportunity prior to asking for a discount. Not trying to lecture you, just offering a different perspective.