diff --git a/core/modules/node/node.module b/core/modules/node/node.module
index 9bd3087..cd40137 100644
--- a/core/modules/node/node.module
+++ b/core/modules/node/node.module
@@ -1185,7 +1185,8 @@ function template_preprocess_node(&$variables) {
     $variables['submitted'] = t('Submitted by !username on !datetime', array('!username' => $variables['name'], '!datetime' => $variables['date']));
     if (theme_get_setting('toggle_node_user_picture')) {
       // To change user picture settings (e.g. image style), edit the 'compact'
-      // view mode on User entity.
+      // view mode on the User entity. Note that the 'compact' view mode might
+      // not be configured, so remember to always check the theme setting first.
       $variables['user_picture'] = user_view($node->account, 'compact');
     }
     else {
diff --git a/core/profiles/minimal/minimal.install b/core/profiles/minimal/minimal.install
index cc47f49..9191a92 100644
--- a/core/profiles/minimal/minimal.install
+++ b/core/profiles/minimal/minimal.install
@@ -12,7 +12,8 @@
  * @see system_install()
  */
 function minimal_install() {
-  $default_theme = 'stark';
+  // Disable the user pictures on nodes.
+  variable_set('theme_settings', array('toggle_node_user_picture' => FALSE));
 
   // Allow visitor account creation, but with administrative approval.
   config('user.settings')->set('register', USER_REGISTER_VISITORS_ADMINISTRATIVE_APPROVAL)->save();