Before you text
How to photograph your piece
Five quick phone pictures tell me most of what I need to know. Leave the sign where it is — no need to take it down, unbolt it or clean it.
The five photos
The whole front
Stand straight in front of it so the entire sign fits in the frame, edges and all. Try not to shoot from a sharp angle.
The back
The back often shows age, maker’s marks, and how it was hung. If it’s mounted and you can’t reach the back, that’s okay — just say so.
One edge
A side view shows the thickness and what it’s made of. It’s one of the easiest ways to tell porcelain from painted tin.
Close-ups
Any stamp, label, maker’s name, date or plate. Also get the worst chip, rust spot, crack or dent so there are no surprises later.
The size
Rough measurements if you know them — height and width, or across for a round sign. A tape measure in one photo works too. Estimates are fine.
A few tips
Use daylight
Natural light outside or near an open door shows true colors. Avoid the flash on glossy porcelain — it causes glare.
Leave it in place
On a wall, a pole or in a barn rafter is fine. Photograph it where it is; there’s no need to unbolt it or move it.
Don’t clean it up
A light dusting is fine. Please skip polish, cleaners, sanding and paint — the original surface matters.
Say where it is
Just the town is plenty. Mention if it’s up high, bolted down or hard to get to.
Several pieces?
One group photo plus a few pictures of each piece works well.
Neon, pumps & globes
Don’t plug in damaged neon. For pumps and air meters, find the nameplate. For globes, shoot each lens.
Then text them to me
Send the photos to 979-220-3831 with a line about what it is and where it is. I’ll take a look and get back to you.
Can’t text from where you are? Use the contact form and I’ll reach out.