Fans line up for autographs at ball games, race tracks, concerts and movie openings.
Fans frequently ask authors, actors, sports figures, models, artists and other celebrities for their autographs. Some fans hope to get a signed book, baseball, headshot or other item to keep in their personal collection. Others will take anything signed so they can try to resell it. When an autograph is personalized to "Mikey," for example, it could reduce its resale value. But diehard fans usually want the item as a keepsake. The first part of personalization is getting the fan's name right. The rest is a matter of choice, spontaneity and a little foresight.
Instructions
1. Ask the name of the person who is seeking the autograph. Address your signature to that individual. If they are requesting it for someone else, use that person's name.
2. Ask if there is a special occasion -- especially when you are asked to dedicate the autograph to a person other than the one present. For example, you could write: "To Diana, Happy 50th birthday."
3. Sign your name. Add a quote from your book if you're an author. Choose one line for all fans, or keep it general, for example, "Enjoy the book!" or "Happy reading," and your signature. If you have spent a few moments talking to a fan, you can add something like, "I enjoyed meeting you," or "Thanks for helping out during the break."
4. Sign using a line from a TV show, stage play or film you were in, if you are an actor. "May the force be with you" was probably on a lot of Star Wars items sent to fans.
5. Have a digital photo taken with the fan. Have someone log a list of names and email addresses of fans.
6. Add the date and any historic moment, such as: "For Mary, New Year's, Times Square"; or "Bob, Glad you could come. XYZ Film Premiere May, 2011."
