I have read many users on here say how much they hate SFM and I understand that because they would rather have a real one than a pre-printed photograph. But I am glad the SFM clients send something because it is better than nothing. I know celebrities don't have to respond to fan-mail but it is a courtesy, a show of appreciation for those who have helped them and their career and I think it's respectable for them to do so to, in a sense, give back in a small way that they know their fans will appreciate. Of course, fans value personal signed and pre-signed over secretaries and pre-prints.
In a nut shell, a pre-print is better than nothing and it really peeves me off when they don't send ANYTHING. Like I said, they don't have to but it is a gesture of appreciation for something, if that makes sense.
I think SFM is cool because they send out nice photographs and it gives people a good idea of what the persons signature looks like for comparison if you prefer to buy the desired autograph online or from a "respectable" dealer. And if possible, receive them through a film set, theater, or concert. I always feel great if I have a pre-print and I finally get a authentic reply. I like to compare and it is such a good feeling when they match. It's kind of weird but it works for me. (It's like a small mission accomplished) haha!
My best example of receiving a pre-print and getting a authentic one later would be my Jennifer Love Hewitt one. She is not a SFM client but her manager sends pre-prints for her. I got it through the set of "Garfield 2." It's also special to me because I got it the day I passed my driving test and got my license. lol
What about you? Have that experience of having a pre-print and getting an authentic one?
Wow I wrote a lot. Forgive me!
-gghi18
p.s. You know what I find interesting is when SFM clients sign authentically TTM too, not JUST VV. Not that I'm complaining but that must add up financially. The best SFM client examples I can think of are Bob Saget, Henry Winkler, and Alan Alda (Alda is a hit and miss from what I have seen).