I just got my first show: now what?

[mabelsound]

I applied to my town's arts partnership for a photo show, and it looks like they're giving me one, to be held in the summer or fall of 2009. I'm pretty excited, but I have a few basic questions, for people who exhibit often.

The show is going to consist of pictures with words in them. That's the only theme, so I have tons of room to experiment. This is the quickie Lightroom gallery page I posted to give the arts people an idea of what I would be doing:

link (http://www.jrobertlennon.com/photography/words)

A couple of those might possibly end up in the show, but I'll be taking hundreds more, and will just choose the best ones. I'm also going to get my friend, a poet, to write short poems, each one containing the words in each photo, and then display the poems with the pictures, and probably get a catalog printed up via Lulu or something with both the photos and texts.

So, questions. One, where should I have the prints made? I usually get prints for myself from Mpix, and like them, but I'd like these to be really special. They would be prints of either digital photos, or scans of film (those examples contain both). I like Mpix because the pics come back looking EXACTLY as they do in Lightroom on my monitor...but perhaps this isn't uncommon these days.

What size prints would be good for a show like this? I think there will be between 12 and 20 photos/poems.

How should I mount the poems? Plain old laser prints stuck to foamcore with spray adhesive, or something more interesting?

How about frames? When people go to a photo show and they wish to buy a print, are they paying for the actual framed print that's in the show? Which they will take home after the show's over? Or are they paying for a limited edition unframed print? If the latter, what's the system for doing this? Is there any standard, or are such things totally idiosyncratic?

What should I charge for prints? I'm new to showing art, and so don't expect to sell these at absurdly high prices. But I have also been warned by friends not to undercut myself by charging too little.

That's all I can think of at the moment--thanks in advance.

[Pherdinand]

the little gallery: Just words and simple images, but somehow i like them!
Sorry, can't help you with advices on the details.

[mabelsound]

No problem, and glad you like the samples!

[payasam]

Always best to keep things simple.

[35mmdelux]

print size: 11 x 14. standard black frames.

There is a huge difference in who does your printing. You have some nice work. From what you posted, I would cull out two. congrts!

[mabelsound]

print size: 11 x 14. standard black frames.

There is a huge difference in who does your printing.

Who then?!

11x14 sounds good by me.

edit: I'm thinking of asking this place for a sample...they're not far from where I live...
http://www.4photolab.com/

[mabelsound]

From what you posted, I would drop two.

OK, I have to ask...which two? I'm only really attached to two or three of those...

[35mmdelux]

I will get back to you shortly when I can discern them more carefully -- my son is wanting his dad (me) to assist with some toys. Sorry.

Eighty percent of your pix are excellent. A couple distract from the more powerful ones. I will get back later this morning (Pacific time).

[mabelsound]

Great, thanks! I should add, though, I'm not really at the critique-the-images phase right now...I'm more concerned about the mechanics of showing art...I might well put up a more complete gallery closer to the opening, and ask people's opinions then, but for now I feel as though I've just begun shooting for the thing. I'm delighted you find the images largely compelling, though.

[35mmdelux]

your color ones are great. Love them. In B&W, the "tool bin" and the "open" do nothing for me. I would drop these.

You are a strong color photographer. I would exploit this angle and only present your very best B&W. (80%/20% strategy).

[willie_901]

I recently ordered a 12 X 18 B&W print from I took with a D300 from MPIX. I (was shocked that it looked exactly as it did in LR on my iMac. At other places the prints always come out too dark.

I wish MPIX offered watercolor paper for B&W. However, at least I have a vendor from whom I can confidently order prints.

By the way, the 12 X18 full frame print (which I prepared in LR) had lovely detail and tonality. I'm sure I could print it larger.

[pachuco]

Congrats on your show! Good luck and enjoy.

[mabelsound]

Some galleries prefer framed photos. Some prefer mounted photos with overmats. Some like a mix. You need to ask about their specific requirements.

This gallery is mostly a space--the artist does all the publicity and makes the aesthetic decisions. So the show is mine to #*&@ up. Your recommendations are definitely close to what I had in mind, though.

[BillBingham2]

My 2cents, worth everything you paid for it.

Forget the poems, this is your show. Let people think what they want and interrupt your creations however they feel. If you add the poems they might turn people off who might love the work.

Often, the difference between a great photographer and a good one is what they show. Often we all get too close to shots and end us showing too much. Less is more, much more. Photography is one of the few arts where we have the ability not show everything that can allow people to think we have a better hit rate than we might. Cut, Cut, Cut, be ruthlessly picky and you will be asked back. I like your stuff and think you are on the right track.

Size depends upon how far back people will be looking at your work without bumping into other people. Run some tests in the space if you can to see what feels right. Too big and the prints will not feel right to be viewed up close. I think 11x14 is around the right size for most shows, but bigger can be fine in a larger space.

Number each one X of 25 saying that you will not print up more than 25 of them. To high a number and it seems silly. Do not show print number one, start at 2 or 3, making it seem that people have already purchased prints. Sign the bottoms and date them.

Check around to see who has 20% off coupons for Bed, Bath and Beyond, might save you a bundle. Stock up over time. I’ve not framed anything in years, but as you’re using standard sizes you should be ok.

Again, cut the good and keep the great. The ones that move people instantly and you will fine.

B2 (;->

[charjohncarter]

Roger Hicks (RFF member) has a free module on his site that deals with portfolio presentation. It is an excellent do and do nots. It is not exactly what you are asking about, but you will see the connections. I'm sure it will help you very much. It did me. Here is the link:

http://www.rogerandfrances.com/photoschool/ps%20critique.html (http://www.rogerandfrances.com/photoschool/ps%20critique.html)

[sepiareverb]

Cut, cut, cut is the best advice. Ruthless is important. An image you really like but everyone else just shrugs at has to go.

Mounting images for sale is no longer standard, prints are sold as the image on a piece of paper. Standardize the frame type, but not the size of frames or images- consider the size of each image and print it accordingly. A variety of size can be helpful when it comes to hanging the work, making for a much more dynamic exhibit.

Most important? Have fun, and leave enough time to get everything together- it will take twice as long as you think- so set a deadline and stick to it.

[mabelsound]

This is great advice, thank you! Roger's portfolio page is full of excellent information...I'll try and absorb as much as possible.

The inclusion of the poet is mostly because, to be honest, I want to do something fun with my friend. He's not just some lame-ass scribbler, though--he is a masterful writer. Not sure if he's gonna do it or not. Anyway, the poems will be the only other thing in the room. There will be no artist's statement--I have never read a single one, ever, that improved my appreciation of the art, and most of them make me like it less. So it will remain spare, with the images holding their own from four feet away, and the poems only legible if you want to get up close and find another dimension.

What do you all think about Roger's claim that B&W and color rarely sit well together in a show? I respect 35mmdelux's opinion, but his two least favorite in the first batch are, in fact, my two favorites. That said, I've been shooting more in color, digital, lately and am really enjoying it.

Like I said though, I'll continue shooting and see what congeals. I would like to have lots and lots of images to choose from. And perhaps I'll keep it down to 10 or 12.

[sepiareverb]

I'd agree- mixing color and B&W can be very difficult- more so when you're trying to present one body of work.

[retnull]

Don't underestimate the amount of time/effort/money required to present your work well. Good framing and matting (appropriate to the type of photos you do), hanging, sequencing, positioning images correctly in the space...all of these things are very important. If you get them right, your work will shine and you will feel great about it. If you don't, it's kind of like showing up for a job interview in a gym outfit.

[amateriat]

I agree with both the "cut, cut, cut" sentiment and the idea of not mixing b/w and color. I'm in the midst of sorting stuff out for my first-ever one-person show in September. The big headache is matting/framing, since I'm doing al the printing myself, but on a shoestring budget, making it more of a high-wire act. This can be a good thing, as it forces one to concentrate on the essentials and blow off the fluff. think hard about what it is you want to communicate, then try and pare things down to where the message remains intact. This is the formula I'm sticking with 9or trying to, anyway...).

Congratulations, and keep us informed on this!


Barrett

[charjohncarter]

Color and B&W, if you have a VERY strong theme for your showing then yes. But no, if you are showing disparate images.

[JeffGreene]

... I'm in the midst of sorting stuff out for my first-ever one-person show in September. ...

Barrett:

Any information on your show? New York's not that far from Philadelphia! :D

[amateriat]

Barrett:

Any information on your show? New York's not that far from Philadelphia! :D
I'll definitely let you know as things progress. At the moment, it's absolute chaos, as I've yet to pick someone to do the matting and framing (first-timer's syndrome, I guess...). Pretty confident things will come together, though: I feel very positive about the work itself.


- Barrett

[nikonhswebmaster]

I'll definitely let you know as things progress. At the moment, it's absolute chaos, as I've yet to pick someone to do the matting and framing (first-timer's syndrome, I guess...). Pretty confident things will come together, though: I feel very positive about the work itself.


- Barrett

I have lately been thinking no matte, use a standoff in the frame, and go with printing on paper the size of the frame, and letting the paper matte itself.

[SolaresLarrave]

Talk to a gallery owner and find out about how this person would show photographs. In fact, you should NOT frame them yourself; let a professional do it.

My one and only show had prints matted and backed with archival material. To make them look good, they were shrinkwrapped and hung from small hooks that were glued on the wrap. This gave the prints a larger size and a nice frame. In fact, since I didn't sell any (the pics weren't good to sell), I am contemplating taking them back to the gallery, remove the wrap and have them framed.

It costed me a small fortune, but, in the end, it ensures that your photos will look good.

BTW, the prints came from my university digital lab: they color-manage and keep an eye on the process so that the colors turn out fine. Granted, it was expensive, but the prints are archival and so is the entire set up. Of course, when it comes to pricing, you must transfer this cost to the buyer, plus your own estimate of your work. Check out what other photographers want for their work. Don't cut much on yours but don't ask as much as if you were like them either.

And, of course, congratulations!! :)

[SolaresLarrave]

Oh, before I forget... I really liked your photos and find all of them expressive and interesting. The only one that I find, say, unprovoking is "Restaurant." The rest of them (and I really like "Each other") are interesting in varying degrees, but by no means boring.

Keep shooting. Meet with someone who is experienced in these matters (I had a very good help from a local photographer who spent time with me and dispensed advice generously), and, most important, be VERY demanding and tough when it comes to selecting your samples.

If I were to put another show again, I'd stay at 12 or under. And I really would take myself to the task as editor; examine your images with a very critical, unforgiving eye. Those who pass the test may do well... or not at all, but then, that's for another thread.

Take care! :)

[mabelsound]

Oh, before I forget... I really liked your photos and find all of them expressive and interesting. The only one that I find, say, unprovoking is "Restaurant." The rest of them (and I really like "Each other") are interesting in varying degrees, but by no means boring.

Keep shooting. Meet with someone who is experienced in these matters (I had a very good help from a local photographer who spent time with me and dispensed advice generously), and, most important, be VERY demanding and tough when it comes to selecting your samples.

If I were to put another show again, I'd stay at 12 or under. And I really would take myself to the task as editor; examine your images with a very critical, unforgiving eye. Those who pass the test may do well... or not at all, but then, that's for another thread.

Take care! :)

Thank you! I'm probably going to take all of this advice...talk to some photographer friends. There's a wonderful medium-format photographer I know named Lisa Roy Sachs, whose recent catalog I wrote the text for...I don't think she'll mind me badgering her for advice. And I think you're right--I visited the probable gallery space yesterday...it's quite small...I think 10-12 photos would be ideal. I like the idea of self-matting the pictures...in fact, I generally get 6x9 prints of my favorite photos, to keep in my portfolio...and I like to photoshop in a thick white border, then have Mpix print to the edge. It would be a cinch to do this in a larger format.

"Restaurant" is one of those pics that it would have been a crime not to take, but is really not all that artistically interesting. It's just beautiful, and it was sitting there on the side of the road...I doubt it will make it into the show...but I'm glad I snapped it.

[amateriat]

I have lately been thinking no matte, use a standoff in the frame, and go with printing on paper the size of the frame, and letting the paper matte itself.
Even at this late a date, Fred, this is something for me to seriously consider; I can imagine this looking rather good, and perhaps faster and less expensive to boot. Thanks for this logical nudge!


- Barrett

[nikonhswebmaster]

Even at this late a date, Fred, this is something for me to seriously cconsider; I can imagine this looking rather good, and perhaps faster and less expensive to boot. Thanks for this logical nudge!


- Barrett

I have been looking at Utrecht art supplies as a solution for less expensive wood and glass frames. The plastic spacers are available from a number of frame suppliers.

It is an elegant solution, especially if you print low luster.

[imajypsee]

it looks like an interesting building, but the composition is not very interesting. I like the tool one, but the composition could be tighter or more off balance. Keep the color and BW; your photos have a common thread and the color/BW together is good to keep the eye engaged. Your best are the ladies under the basketball hoop and the guy in the bus stop enclosure.
I would do both BW and color, print each on the same size paper and let the white space act as a mat. That way you save on framing and paper costs. You end up with a pleasingly "spaced" exhibit (all the same size, uniform shapes) which offers a bit of non-uniformity in the mix of BW/color.