Hints & Tips

 

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:

  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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!
  • 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 a lot more successes since following these tips!

A lot of autograph collectors use abbreviations for regularly used terms, this is the list you might come across:

  • AP = Short for Autopen
  • Autopen = A machine that duplicates a person's signature. At times it is very hard to tell the difference between an "autopen signature" and a real one.
  • BW, B/W, etc... = Black & White
  • IP = An autograph obtained in person.
  • IRC = International Reply Coupon . These are used when requesting autographs from foreign countries. You put them inside of your SASE to cover the cost of postage back to you. Purchase them at your post office.
  • PP = Pre-Print/Facsimile - an exact reproduction of a person's signature. Often photocopied, or electronicaly duplicated.
  • RTS = Return to Sender - Unable to forward, refused, incomplete address, etc.
  • SAE = Self Addressed Envelope
  • SASE = Self-Addressed, Stamped Envelope
  • VV = Via Venue. A request that is sent to a celebrity prior to them performing in an event (concert, play, etc).

Caring For Your Collection, it is imperative to handle your autograph collection correctly. Below are a few helpful tips to consider.

  • Ensure the autographs are kept away from direct sunlight as this will fade the ink.
  • If autographs are framed, use acid free material.
  • Store them in suitable folders and files using non-acidic material.
  • Ensure the environment in which you store your autographs is dry and cool. High moisture content can destroy paper.

I hope this has been of help and interest, happy collecting,

Pete