When it comes to autograph collecting, what matters is the time and place. Look, as much as celebrities enjoy signing autographs, it has to be in the right setting. They won't even spare you a single glance if you ambush them during their off-days. "Can I have your autograph?" isn't what they want to hear during their private time. Your best bet is when they appear in public. Think red carpet events and press junkets. Since signing autographs will likely be part of their schedule already, they'd be more than willing to give it. So to help you out, I'll share with you the best places to get a celebrity's autograph.
Autograph Signings
Want to get a celebrity's autograph? Go to their autograph signing! That's the main point of the event, after all. And don't worry! Many celebrities still hold them. They're just in different capacities compared to how stars used to do it back in the day. These days, autograph signings are done at various events, many of which are listed down below. The most common is during conventions. If you're a fan of superhero flicks, for instance, then you're in luck. Casts of such major blockbusters often appear at the San Diego Comic-Con.
Meet & Greets
Meet & Greets are sort of like autograph signings but after the advent of social media, have mostly become selfie free-for-alls. It's not that big of a surprise, though. Why settle for an autograph when you can have your picture taken with your favorite celebrity instead? Still, there's just something about an autograph that lasts longer. And in any case, you can still get both when stars hold meet & greets with fans. And similarly to autograph signings, they can be done just about anywhere and anytime.
Movie Premieres
If your favorite actor is starring in a big movie, you'll want to go to its red carpet premiere. It's usually open to fans though beware! Tickets can get pretty expensive. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on one, don't waste it! And make sure to arrive early too! You'll want to be at the front of the line during the movie premiere. This is the best area where fans can get as close to the stars as possible. With only ropes, stands, or railings standing between you and the red carpet, they'll find it easy to sign whatever you hand to them.
At The Stage Door
This is more applicable to fans of theater stars. However, it's also become common when celebrities go on talk shows. In any case, fans waiting at the stage door has been a tradition ever since theater was born. They'd even offer up flowers and other gifts for their favorite stars back them. Nowadays, autographs and selfies are enough. Especially if the actors are in a rush. And if they are, remember not to hound them too aggressively. You don't want to be slapped with a restraining order, would you?
Promotional Events
Whether it's a big movie star with a brand deal or a supermodel at a soiree, going to a promotional event increases your chances of getting their autographs. And yes, as already mentioned, there's a good chance that there will be autograph signings in these. That's why they were hired to advertise, after all. Their big names grab attention and draw people in. It's only natural that they sign autographs as fanservice. Many companies will level require celebrity endorsers to do it, all to help promote their products and their brand.
Book Signings
Technically, 'book signings' fall under the 'promotional events' category. But in all honesty, it's far from what you'd expect from other such appearances. For one thing, this event is all about their book, which also means they're selling themselves rather than another label's product or service. This might also mean they'll be more willing to sign autographs for fans. However, there's a catch: they'll only sign their book. You'll need to buy a copy if you want them to sign it for you. You can just forget about bringing anything else!
In The Mail
Good old-fashion fan mail is still alive and well even in the 21st century! In fact, some celebrities, particularly the older ones, would even appreciate it more! Stars don't exactly take too kindly about getting DMs from people they don't know. If you want to communicate with your favorite actor or artist and expect signed memorabilia in return, sending some fan mail will do. Just don't get all creepy about it. A letter of admiration will do. Don't include anything creepy like a lock of your hair or nail clippings. Yes! Fans have actually sent such things to celebrities!
Getting a celebrity's autograph is tricky. It's really all about timing and if you don't get it right, there might not be a next time! Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to try!
