The First Rule of Collecting: Buy What You Love
Have you ever walked past a photograph and found yourself stopping, unable to look away? It might have been a stunning landscape, a compelling portrait, or a simple moment of everyday life captured in a way that felt extraordinary. That feeling—that pull—is the most important thing to pay attention to when you’re thinking about collecting art. Forget about artists’ names, market value, or what the critics say. The first, and most important, rule of collecting is simple: collect photographs you love.
Collecting photographic prints is a profoundly personal journey. Each print tells a unique story that can enrich your life and beautify your space, serving as a conversation starter that invites friends and family to ponder over the emotions and narratives embedded within.
The reason a photograph resonates with you is often because of its content and subject matter. An image can capture a feeling of profound loneliness, the fleeting joy of a summer day, or the quiet dignity of a person. It can tell a story, even without a single word. As an artist, I often think about this connection.
As a visual artist who paints, draws, and makes unique photographs, I often think about this connection. When I make a photograph, my goal is to create something that goes beyond a simple record of what was there. I’m trying to share a perspective, an emotion, or a moment in time that will resonate with you. My process involves selecting subjects that evoke strong feelings or highlight the beauty in the mundane. Sharing these moments with you enriches our collective experience.
When I make a photograph, whether it’s a portrait, a landscape, or an object, my goal is to create something that goes beyond a simple record of what was there. I’m trying to share a perspective, an emotion, or a moment in time that will resonate with you, the viewer.
My process involves selecting subjects that evoke strong emotions or highlight the beauty in the mundane. For example, capturing a fleeting moment of laughter or a serene sunset can create a lasting impression. Sharing these moments with you enriches our collective experience and understanding of art.
Collecting Photography: Assessing Fine Art Photographs
What Does it Mean to “Look Closely”? To truly ‘look closely’, immerse yourself in the details. Notice the textures, colors, and even the framing. Each element contributes to the overall impact of the photograph. For instance, a close-up of a flower can reveal the delicate veins of the petals, making you appreciate nature’s design.
This practice not only enhances your appreciation for the artwork but also sharpens your eye for quality, helping you make informed decisions when adding to your collection. In his book Ways of Seeing, author John Berger suggests that we often glance at images without really seeing them. To truly appreciate a photograph, you need to look at it closely. Don’t just scan the image; let your eyes explore it.
Ask yourself these questions:
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- What is happening in this photograph?
- What emotions does it evoke in me?
Evaluating emotions can be subjective. You might find that a photograph makes you feel joyful, while another person sees sadness in the same piece. This variance is the beauty of art—it’s a reflection of personal experiences and perspectives. For instance, a photograph of a rainy street might evoke feelings of nostalgia in one viewer and discomfort in another. Understanding these emotional responses can deepen your connection to the art and guide your purchasing decisions.
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- How do the different parts of the image—the light, the shadows, the subjects—relate to each other?
When you take the time to look closely, you move from just seeing a picture to understanding a work of art. The Story Behind the Image The narrative of a photograph is a story woven from the context surrounding it. Consider the story behind iconic images like Dorothea Lange’s ‘Migrant Mother’, which captures the struggles during the Great Depression.
The historical significance adds layers of meaning, prompting viewers to consider the societal issues depicted. When collecting, seek to understand the background of the pieces you admire. This knowledge can transform your collection into a curated anthology of stories that resonate with you.
How Can I Be Sure I’m Buying a Genuine Piece of Fine Art Photography?
Answer: You should always look for proof of the artwork’s authenticity, such as a signature, an edition number, and a certificate of authenticity.
Evidence: Unlike a painting or sculpture, a photograph is often produced in a limited edition—a specific, fixed number of prints. For example, a print marked with “1/20” indicates it’s the first print out of a total of 20 in that edition, and this scarcity contributes to its value. A signed print from the artist, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, confirms its genuineness.
In future posts, we’ll talk about the more practical aspects, like what to look for in a quality print, the difference between various photographic processes (like my own use of platinum/palladium printing), and the importance of archival quality and proper presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it okay to buy a photograph I love even if the artist isn’t famous?
A: Yes. Your personal connection to the work is the most important part of collecting. Many collectors find great satisfaction in discovering and supporting emerging artists.
Q: What’s the difference between a fine art photograph and a commercial one?
A: The main difference is the artist’s intention. Fine art photography is created as a form of personal expression, whereas commercial photography is created for a client, like an advertisement or a product catalog.
Q: Can I hang my photograph anywhere?
A: To protect your fine art prints, you should avoid hanging them in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity. Proper framing with UV-protective glass is essential to ensure they last a lifetime.
Start with Your Heart, Not Your Wallet
Collecting photographic prints is a deeply personal journey that encourages you to explore your emotions, thoughts, and aesthetic preferences. Your journey as a collector starts by reflecting on your personal taste and then visiting online and local exhibits to see what images resonate with you.
As you embark on this adventure, remember to enjoy the process. Each piece you add to your collection reflects a part of your story, serving as a visual diary. So take your time, and allow the pieces that speak to you to find a place in your home. You can explore examples of my work at lariviereworks.com to see this process in action.
Additionally, art collecting allows you to support an artist’s vision and contributions to culture while enhancing your own life.
