First Time Buyers
Why should I buy photographs?
Photography is more popular than ever before, and there's never been a more exciting time to start collecting. Photographs are modern, accessible and relatively inexpensive.
The idea of collecting seems such a serious pursuit. Do I need to stick to a theme?
There is no need to specialise - most people simply buy the work they find the most beautiful, compelling, or thought provoking. Their personal taste is the unifying element.
I'm interested in collecting photography but don't know where to start.
An easy way to discover where your interests lie is to visit a good specialist bookshop or gallery. Keep a note of the names of photographers whose work you like. That way when you want to make a purchase, you have a good idea of the kind of work you're looking for.
  
Galleries seem so intimidating- how can I get an idea of what's available?
Don't be put off. Galleries are there to encourage your interest in photography. Tom Blau Gallery is run by enthusiastic staff who are more than happy to answer your questions and show you the work they have available. Remember that the current show is just the tip of the iceberg - many more works are stored away and not on immediate display.


Marlon Brando at home, 1955
Sid Avery
Modern silver gelatin print
Where can I find the prices?
Prices are written on the labels next to exhibited works, or in a separate price list, but don't be afraid to ask. A signed print can cost as little as £200-£300. More well-known photographers naturally command higher prices, but you may well be pleasantly surprised. Again, gallery staff will be happy to recommend work to suit your tastes and budget. Don't forget that gallery prices always exclude VAT and framing.
I've heard that you should only buy limited edition prints. Is that true?
The limited edition print is a fairly recent concept. The assumption is that by artificially limiting the number of prints produced from a single negative, its value will increase, due to its rarity.

In reality, the majority of important photographers, including Henri Cartier-Bresson, do not and never have limited their prints and their photographs are only ever printed to order.

Comic Book Readers, 1947
Ruth Orkin
Estate silver gelatin print
So what determines the value of a print?
All kinds of things. The price is set by the photographer and usually reflects the demand from the market.

Generally, the well-established names command higher prices than lesser known or emerging talents. Exclusivity or rarity - perhaps because the photographer is no longer alive - will increase prices.

Signed prints are always more sought after than unsigned ones, and vintage prints are considered more valuable than modern versions. They have a value as a historical artefact, in addition to their image value. See the Glossary for definitions of print types.
How do I look after my print?
You should keep your print flat at all times. Never hold by one corner and always use cotton gloves to avoid marking. Make sure your print is correctly mounted and framed in acid-free, museum standard materials, and hung away from strong sunlight. You should also avoid extremes of temperature and humid environments. Correctly printed photographs should easily last at least 100 years, whilst the latest archival digital prints have an estimated life expectancy of 200.

You should try to change the mount every few years or so, and check the condition of your print. Don't forget to make sure you have adequate insurance as the value of your collection increases!