Art of collecting

[capturedglobal]

I've always wrestled with the value proposition of photography, as a reproducible art form. I'd like to hear your thoughts on the the traditional gallery model of offering images in multiple sizes, multiple editions and at various prices (usually pretty high in a gallery). Sure it's a way for galleries to create and control "monetary value" but does it somehow compromise the image in the process? This model always suggests that the largest, highest priced print is the most valuable. Thoughts?

[AcadieLibre]

I want to respond to this, I will try later today or in the next day or two when I can put a coherent thought together. Great question I think. Just responding so I remember to get back to it.

[theantiquetiger]

I own a rare panoramic photograph of the first game ever played in LSU Tiger Stadium. I received permission to reproduce from the grandson of the photographer and from LSU. It is now for sale in a gallery and comes in three different sizes and prices, and two different backings.

I have partnered up with a fine art studio and a company that holds a license to sell LSU items. They basically set the prices because they are in the know about these things (even though I am more of an expert on LSU collectibles). I thought the prices were too high but I listened to their advice.

The original image is 44"x9" and a reproduction of it in this size is $225. We have sold more of these than any other. It is running around $500 framed.

It also comes on canvas and can be made any size you wish, but it comes in a 60"x14" size unless you ask differently. It cost $675 (but it doesn't need framing)

The last size is a small 4"x22" (or 1/2 scale), and it is only $50 but you lose a lot of detail in it.

As a collector, I think the prices are too high (except for the small) and I would never pay this amount for these images. I did pay over $2000 for the original with framing.

I am not sure if this is touching on your topic, but as the owner of an image that is being reproduced and sold in three different galleries, I think it is over priced.

[dha6892]

Perhaps it also depends on the intention of the photographer. I have been thinking that the format and the size of the photos matter as well as the contents of the photos. If a photographer took the photo and thought that this photo should be preserved at a certain size because it works best with this size, then selling the photos at different sizes at different prices is against the photographers.
(pardon me for my bad English. I'm a non native speaker.)

[slackercruster]

OP, yes it is true. Kinda artificial market restrictions.

BH has some god videos on the collectors mind on Youtube. Check them out.