Photography’s popularity among collectors continues to grow and for good reason. ArtTactic reported a record high for photography in terms of sales volume last year, with a 36% year-on-year increase in the volume of photographs sold under the $5000 USD mark. Alongside this rise, photography continues to be of key interest to the world’s top collectors, and forms a central part of many influential private collections, such as those of Sir Elton John and David Furnish, and the late Hong Kong arts-champion Sir David Tang. In recent years, blue-chip galleries and international museums have also been ramping up their presentations of important contemporary photographers and lens-based artists, including of Nan Goldin by Gagosian, Gordon Parks by Pace Gallery, Zanelle Muholi by Tate Modern, Hiroshi Sugimoto by UCCA Shanghai and LaToya Ruby Frazier by MoMA. All in all, the outlook for photography is bright, as the Art Newspaper recently noted.
Whether you are a fresh or experienced collector, PHOTOFAIRS can be the perfect venue for you to explore the photographic medium, meet a diversity of artists, gallerists, curators and collectors, and even acquire your first fine-art photograph. Here, we bring you a comprehensive Art Fair Checklist for photography, with all the things to keep in mind before, during and after you attend PHOTOFAIRS.
Before you attend PHOTOFAIRS:
Learn about what you like. Make a habit of seeing as many exhibitions and shows of photography in your city. Speak to gallerists and curators, and build relationships based on your curiosity about their work. Read up on artists who catch your eye. Sign up to newsletters, visit Online Viewing Rooms and explore digital-only exhibitions, which have become post-pandemic staples and allow you to consider artworks in the comfort of your home. Take the time to attend artist talks, private views and special events at galleries and museums. All of these will help you discover your tastes, preferences and interests when it comes to photography.
Sign up for patrons’ programmes. Many galleries, museums and fairs have special VIP programmes with early and exclusive access for their patrons. Apply to be a part of the PHOTOFAIRS Hong Kong VIP programme, and explore the many ways in which you can become a patron at your other favorite photography galleries and museums.
Think about your budget. Photography is available at a wide array of price points and knowing your budget will help you navigate the field. Also consider how you want to use your budget — would you rather acquire multiple works at lower price-points or invest in one higher-priced work?
At PHOTOFAIRS:
Arrive early. Beat the rush to be able to enjoy the works at the fair at your pace.
Get oriented. Get a map of the fair and understand the lay of the land. See if any of the galleries that have piqued your interest in the past are exhibiting or part of the public program at the fair.
See as much as you can. Visit as many booths at the fair as you can before you start thinking about your collection. View the fair simply as an enthusiast before you start thinking about what would make sense in your collection. The fair is space for discovery, so be curious and try to push your boundaries. Pay attention to works that you wouldn’t naturally gravitate towards.
Meet fellow collectors. The fair is full of like-minded people who can help broaden your horizons and teach you about artists, collecting and become part of your community.
Speak to gallerists. As you begin to hone in on your favorite works, one or more of which you may like to acquire, speak to the respective gallerists about them. Ask them about the artist, the work and importantly, about the edition size, condition and provenance. These will be key in the pricing. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you have, and for advice.
Budget recommendations. Emerging photographers and artists can be an excellent starting point for a limited budget. You also get the benefit of supporting new talent and the future of the medium. If you are looking to make a more sizable acquisition, keep an eye out for artist proofs or rare editions of significant works by photographers who you may have loved during, say, a recent museum trip. Our social media is a good place to discover artists at both ends of the spectrum.
Confirm documentation. Congratulations, you now own an artwork you love! Before you leave, confirm how the gallery will provide the documentation verifying the authenticity and provenance of the work, and details about mounting, framing and shipping.
After you attend PHOTOFAIRS:
Framing. If your artwork does not come framed, ensure you get your work framed by a reputable framer that uses museum-standard materials, including archival or UV protected glass.
Handling. Ensure the surface of your print remains pristine by not handling it more than required. For extra credit, you could wear gloves while handling the work to prevent any stray chance of scratching or smudging.
Hanging. Avoid hanging your work in intense light, near a heat source or in a humid environment, as these can cause damage over time. While some photographic processes are stable, others can be fragile and prone to environmental conditions. Ask your gallerist for specific hanging and framing advice.
Future value. Keep track of the artist whose work you now own, and consider cataloging, archiving and insuring your work. Most importantly, enjoy the work you now have in your collection!
PHOTOFAIRS Hong Kong will take place 26-30 March 2025 (VIP Preview March 26) at the Central Harbourfront. Stay up to date on the best of contemporary photography by signing up to our newsletter.
