Sending a request letter WITH a picture?

[Lady_GaGa_Fan92]

Ok, so I'm planning to request an autograph from Ashley Judd. Now this is the tricky part: Besides the letter, do I include a picture for Ashley to sign? Or are there pictures already provided and I don't have to send one at all? I had one success and some disappointments. I received an autographed picture of Patrick Flueger five years ago (I never send any pictures in the envelope, just the request letter itself). I sent letters to a couple of actresses, requesting for autographs, which included pictures, and I never received one autograph from them. So really, I'm just not so sure whether to include a picture or not. Whoever had experience sending a request letter to Ashley Judd or anybody else and it went successful, please, it'll mean so much to me if you gave me your best advice. Thank you

[Nanci]

There are alot of threads about this already but I'll give you my advice.

When sending out a request you need to consider a couple of things:
- What are the celeb's signing habbits? Some sign a whole batch every other months, once a year, only via venue etc. Use the search bar to figure out what is best for Ashley.
- Including a photo increases your chance of a reply if the celeb is somewhere where they may not have a photo with them, like film sets etc. While most celebs have their own photo/headshot to send out but you can always include one of your choice. You can also send a indexcard, tradingcard or magazine articles. Avoid 'unoffical photos' such as papparazzi pics but otherwise most celebs will sign whatever you include. You can pic your favorite photo.
- Alongside your letter of request (LOR) also atleast include a SAE (selfadressed envelope) and if possible also stamped with the return postage (SASE). Search the forum for more info about this.
- Be creative! Make sure your letter stands out, is not too long and always ASK for an autograph or for them to sign your photos. Most celebs will anyway but it's nice to ask.
- Be patient! It can take months or years to get a reply or you might not get a response at all. So also be careful what you send out to be signed, since it may not be returned to you.

Good luck! Hope this helps.

[Lady_GaGa_Fan92]

@Nanci Hi there! First of all, I am so sorry for my late response. For some reason, I didn't get notified :/ Anyways, thank you very much for your advice. It really helps me out I didn't get a chance to send the letter yet (I've been busy with work and all), but with your advice, it should improve. Thanks again, Nanci, and I'm sorry once again for my late reply.