As is widely evident, photography as a medium of expression has grown in popularity over the last few years, and has become a highly collectible item. Initially, most people looked at photographs as an affordable option and as an alternate to conventional art forms.
However, the prices of photographs have risen consistently over the years. Still, due to multiples, prices of photographs are comparatively lower than conventional art such as paintings.
During this year's art summit too there was ample emphasis on photographs, with dedicated galleries showing their works. Overall too, the number of exhibitions , photographers and the range of work that is being displayed have expanded tremendously, which augurs well for the collector or buyer.
It does, however, become difficult for buyers to assess whether to invest in photographs or not. In the conventional art market, not every painting or sculpture can provide financial returns, and the same holds true in the case of photographs. There are numerous exhibitions now by both established photographers and budding ones. Therefore, one must put in an effort to understand more, to be able to assess good quality works and in general to get familiar with the medium.
What makes this field particularly interesting is that there is a whole spectrum of photographic works on display . Photojournalists, fine art photographers, conceptual artists, they are all producing some exceptional works and although this is exciting for the viewer and the market, it can be a little confusing for first-time buyers .
It is imperative therefore that one gets familiar with the scene completely before buying. You could begin by looking at works of established photographers to understand the finer nuances of the medium. As always, it is important to buy from galleries of repute and to check the edition size of the photograph.
However, the prices of photographs have risen consistently over the years. Still, due to multiples, prices of photographs are comparatively lower than conventional art such as paintings.
During this year's art summit too there was ample emphasis on photographs, with dedicated galleries showing their works. Overall too, the number of exhibitions , photographers and the range of work that is being displayed have expanded tremendously, which augurs well for the collector or buyer.
It does, however, become difficult for buyers to assess whether to invest in photographs or not. In the conventional art market, not every painting or sculpture can provide financial returns, and the same holds true in the case of photographs. There are numerous exhibitions now by both established photographers and budding ones. Therefore, one must put in an effort to understand more, to be able to assess good quality works and in general to get familiar with the medium.
What makes this field particularly interesting is that there is a whole spectrum of photographic works on display . Photojournalists, fine art photographers, conceptual artists, they are all producing some exceptional works and although this is exciting for the viewer and the market, it can be a little confusing for first-time buyers .
It is imperative therefore that one gets familiar with the scene completely before buying. You could begin by looking at works of established photographers to understand the finer nuances of the medium. As always, it is important to buy from galleries of repute and to check the edition size of the photograph.
It does, however, become difficult for buyers to assess whether to invest in photographs or not. In the conventional art market, not every painting or sculpture can provide financial returns, and the same holds true in the case of photographs. There are numerous exhibitions now by both established photographers and budding ones. Therefore, one must put in an effort to understand more, to be able to assess good quality works and in general to get familiar with the medium.
What makes this field particularly interesting is that there is a whole spectrum of photographic works on display . Photojournalists, fine art photographers, conceptual artists, they are all producing some exceptional works and although this is exciting for the viewer and the market, it can be a little confusing for first-time buyers .
It is imperative therefore that one gets familiar with the scene completely before buying. You could begin by looking at works of established photographers to understand the finer nuances of the medium. As always, it is important to buy from galleries of repute and to check the edition size of the photograph.
What makes this field particularly interesting is that there is a whole spectrum of photographic works on display . Photojournalists, fine art photographers, conceptual artists, they are all producing some exceptional works and although this is exciting for the viewer and the market, it can be a little confusing for first-time buyers .
It is imperative therefore that one gets familiar with the scene completely before buying. You could begin by looking at works of established photographers to understand the finer nuances of the medium. As always, it is important to buy from galleries of repute and to check the edition size of the photograph.
(Published in Financial Times)
