Just online, but underage

So what you said did come out a little funny. Let me try to clarify:

Let's say that I am 21 and in a state that allows sex w/ a 16 year-old with consent. Now after receiving her PARENTS consent, we are good to go. So I am now allowed to have sex with the 16 year old. BUT, I am NOT allowed to take pornographic pictures of her. That's the distinction that you need to make. Parental consent, when allowable by state law is only consent to sex. In NO state could you ever photograph or film someone under the age of 18.

In response to the OP:

Mid to late twenties means 25-29. Underage means 17 or less. If those are indeed the parameters that you are giving us, then the guy has issues. I can see a 25 year old dating a 17 year old (w/ parent permission). But if he's actively searching out underage girls then he is a pedophile in the making.