1) Who has signed autograph? The key words here are "demand" and "scarcity." If a particular person's autograph is in high demand and it happens to be a scarce autograph, then you can expect it to have good value. This is why an autograph of Marilyn Monroe sells for over several thousands of dollars. She remains popular and her signature is in great demand. Her autographs are scarce when compared to those of entertainers George Burns, Jimmy Stewart or Joan Crawford, all of whom were around many decades longer to sign autographs for fans.

2) What item has been signed? A simple signature on an album page, menu, airline ticket or piece of paper is normally worth less than a signed document, signed photo, typed or handwritten letter. This is because it is most common type of autograph. All things being equal, a handwritten signed letter demands a premium since not only does it have a name signed at end but may also reveal something interesting, historical, or personal about writer. Thus, you're getting more than just a name signed on paper.

3) Is signature in ink, pencil or otherwise? Ink is worth more than pencil. Pencil can fade over time and usually isn't as dark and bold as a nice ink signature. Many collectors prefer and will pay more for ink signatures. But don't take this to mean pencil signatures don't have value. The great Apache Indian chief Geronimo signed pencil autographs at 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. Today those pencil signatures on small cards can sell for at least $5,000. Today, most collectors prefer that photos and non-flat items be signed in sharpie or paint pen.

4) What is condition of autograph? Any damage to autograph, photo or paper will lower value. Smears, stains, creases, smudges, fading, tears, holes or other damage will always drop value of an autograph. To get top dollar and maximum value autographs must be in excellent condition.

There are several other small variables that can come into play when attempting to place a value on an autograph, but these four important questions are regarded as most basic factors that determine an autograph's value.

These are just a few of questions we receive from autograph collectors. If you have a question, feel free to contact us.

The light meter on your camera may not be able to accurately judge best aperture setting for longer shutter speeds, especially in low-light situations, so your best bet is probably to "bracket." This means taking up to six pictures of same subject, but doubling shutter speed each time. This will give you a variety of effects and exposures and allow you to choose best shot. In general, slow shutter speeds will allow a lot of light into camera, which means that you will want to use a small aperture (ie. f/22) to avoid over-exposing shot. In bright daylight it will be necessary to use lowest ISO available and a neutral density filter to cut light down.

Some great effects and shutter speeds to try are:

Moving stars: several hours Moving cars at night: 10 seconds Waterfalls: 4 seconds + Amusement park rides: 1 second