At first this was initially successful, but soon my success rate started falling. I started getting pre-prints instead of inscribed photos, I asked other collectors what I was doing wrong and they gave me these simple tips:

1. Always include a SASE. For every success you're getting now (mostly from nobodies or new celebs), you'll be able to multiply that total by three, when you've taken the 'work' out of mailing for them. Spend the extra money for stamps or International Reply Coupons and an envelope. It WILL pay off!

2. Always send something to sign. Whether it's an index card, a printout, a computer scan, a flyer, a poster, or a photo, your chances of a signed success doubles, at least! Many older actors don't keep large supplies of portrait photos, and a lot of big stars will have pre-prints stacked and waiting for the letter-writer who doesn't include an item to be signed.

3. Keep letters brief, friendly, and based on what you KNOW about the star. Some letter writers send dozens of letters out to people they know nothing about, using actor's filmography's to fill in bit they don' know. Unfortunately, this can be your downfall! One letter-writer referred to a movie as a favourite that has NEVER been released!

4. A common mistake is misspelling an actor's name (It's hard to trust someone who claims to be a lifelong fan if they can't even spell their idol's name correctly!) The best letters are usually no more than two pages long, gives a little personal experience ("I saw 'Love Story' with my girlfriend, and now we're celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary..."), and doesn't try to critique an actor's career!

5. Don't be afraid to resend a letter if you haven't heard from the star in six months. I always preface the second letter with "I sent this to you six months ago, and I'm afraid it may have got lost in the post..."

I'm certainly not a 'pro' at this hobby, but I have had about a lot more successes since following these tips!

Hope they help you happy collecting,

Pete