What's the best way to sell black and white "fine art" photography? Have any of you any experience at this? I've been approached by a gallery about my photography but I've been wondering if ther are better ways to market the stuff. Fortunately, I do my work for my own pleasure but It's nice to sell a photo now and then. All this is different from all those years I worked for papers and wire services.

-- Joe Cole (jcole@apha.com), July 17, 2000

Answers

Hey Joe (Jimi Hendrix), try those craft shows in your area, I'm sure they are there, I mean they are like McDonald's their everywhere, I've been thinkin' about doin' the same thing myself. Newspaper work, been there, done that! Actually, I'm pretty sure you already thought about what I've said.

-- John L. Blue (bluerose@hotmail.com), July 18, 2000.

Joe, take a look at Dan Heller's web gallery. I was told a year or two ago that he sells $2500 a month from his site alone.

http://www.danheller.com/

-- Dave Jenkins (djphoto@vol.com), July 25, 2000.

To go on a bit of a tangent, be aware that your photo gear is covered under your homeowners policy (within limits) if you're shooting for pleasure. Should you start selling prints, don't forget to specifically add scheduled coverage for the equipment, or it will be uninsured.

-- Sal Santamaura (bc_hill@qwestinternet.net), July 26, 2000.

I've displayed my work at various festivals within the last four years. And I've done two already this year. What you should do is travel around your local vicinity. See if there are any announcements for art festivals, etc. during the summer (or longer depending where you live). Contact the sponsors of these festivals and get yourself a space. Also, read the local paper. God Bless your endeavors & sell a lot of work!

-- Vic Reynolds (decosta1@hotmail.com), August 02, 2000.

I'd be tickled pink if a serious gallery asked me to hang my prints. If you just want to do it for ego or to pick up a few $ to defray expenses, I'd pursue it first. Don't try too hard, unless you want a second job!

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), August 03, 2000.

It is good for a gallery to be interested in your work. I would look into that interest further. Just make sure that you fully understand the deal that they are offering is fair to you. Some gallerys try to make their money off the artist rather than the buyer. There is a publication called Art Calendar which not only gives great information about exhibition opportunities but also have many fine articles on the business of art.

Aside from that, getting your work on walls is not just a matter of letting people know that you are producing good photography. You should not put all of your efforts in one basket. Juried shows, outdoor shows, galleries are all good places to establish a reputation. But don't over look places that are not usually thought of for displaying work. For example I had a friend that sold a number of photographs in a Greek restaurant. I began establishing my local reputation showing in Librarys and theatre lobbys. The fact is that more people will see your work in that setting than they would in most commerical galleries.

Be professional. When showing your work show only your best. If you show slides Make sure that what you show is of the highest quality.

Networking is very important. Go to openings and othere cultural events to meet people who may give you exhibition space or may be a collector. Depending on subject matter, many companies collect photography. A little research will let you know who buys art for the company's collection. I hope that this helps. It is not easy, but it is possible.

-- Rick Lang (rickpho@aol.com), September 07, 2000.