Well youd probably be thinking wrong. I havent heard anyone using that as an image to bow down in front of.
Doesn't matter for the purpose of determining just how you decide what makes an idol an idol. Any example that is fits your definition works, by definition, your definition. Any image of God can be used for illustration of your position, if your position stands up to examination. To wit: "used as an image of God through which to worship Him."
You said you "havent heard anyone using that as an image to bow down in front of. " Assume someone did bow down in front of Michelangelo's painting - this image of God. Would they thereby be guilty of idolatry? And would the painting be an idol then?
ROFL If your stuck on justifying a behavior why do you care what I think? I simply give scripture as it relates to the subject. If you so desperately need mans approval or allowance why dont you just stay within the cult of Catholicism? If on the other hand you have some sort of guilt complex concerning the matter you wont find consolation here or in scripture.