Advise for a newbie?!

[evenstar5]

I used to write letters to country music artists as a teenager and had success with it, but got too busy for it as I grew older. Well now I am determined to start back up again! I already have a list of stars with their addresses ready to go.

Last night I wrote three letters requesting an autographed picture and included a SASE, but no photo. I was worried about saving a picture from say...Google and re-printing it on Snapfish or Shutterfly. Could I get in trouble for that due to copyright or anything? As a kid, I just wrote a letter and received personalized photos in return so that's what I did this time around as well. Heck, as a kid I didn't even send a SASE!

Well, now I'm worried that I'll get a a pre-print and am kicking myself. Will I get in trouble for re-printing professional photos of celebs? And what do you think my chances are of receiving a legit autograph back? I started somewhat small with Megan Hilty (SMASH), Stephen Amell (Arrow) and Jennifer Lawrence.

Thanks!!

[Nanci]

You don't always have to send out your own picture. Most celebs have promo pictures and headshots. If you don't want to include an photograph you can try sending out index cards instead. Make sure to decorate them a bit since some celebs are wary to sign them. Also: magazine covers and clippings are another option.
As for your chances:
- Jennifer Lawrence: most people (not all people) on this forum seem to agree she does not or no longer sends out authentic signs but AP's or secs. You might get her authentic VV.
- Stephen Amell seems to sign pretty good via set of Arrow and he did include an photograph of this own once. Just search the database.
- Not sure who this Megan is but if you search for her in the database you can check the feedback.

Nowadays you will most definitely increase your success rate by including at least an return envelope and if possible return postage. Alot of people send out request now so most celebs do not reply to requests without one quickly if at all.
Good luck!

[evenstar5]

Great! Thanks for the info!!