Join photo specialist Brandei Estes for an in-depth exploration of the photographic industry in this year’s edition of Collecting Photography. This course begins with the origins of the medium and takes us up to contemporary practices, providing insights into both early photographic processes and the latest techniques and debates introduced by the digital age.
As you discover traditional prints and emerging artists, you’ll learn what appeals to you and the kinds of questions you should be asking to start building your collection.
Course format
Sessions include a blend of lectures, group discussions and presentations. Participants are provided with lecture slides and a list of resources for further reading.
Who is this for?
Open to all who are interested in photography and art. This would also be suitable to those who are interested in collecting photography and would like to develop more understanding into different types of prints and the photography sector more widely. No prior knowledge necessary.
Schedule
Week 1 | The history of photography on Tue 29 Oct
Essential to understanding the market and collecting photography, we begin with a deep dive into the history of the medium. From its inception to modern developments, we’ll explore photography’s evolving relationship with the art world — its historic position and how perceptions have shifted over time. There will be a more focused session on the photography market in Week 3.
Session 2 | Techniques, dimensions and editions on Tue 5 Nov
In our second week, we look at the technical and practical aspects that shape the photography landscape. This session will cover a variety of processes and techniques, as well as editions, sizes and formats. By understanding these elements, you’ll gain valuable insights into the factors that influence the valuation and pricing of photographic works.
Session 3 | The Photography Market on Tue 12 Nov
This week, we will focus on the photography market itself. We’ll examine both primary and secondary markets, looking closely at the crucial role of art fairs and the influence of museums and public galleries. We’ll identify key players, while examining strategies for navigating auctions, whether you’re buying or selling.
Session 4 | Living with photography on Tue 19 Nov
What is it like to collect and live with photography? In this session, we’ll hear from a special guest contributor who will give firsthand experience of the emotional and intellectual aspects that inspire collectors. We’ll also look at the emergence of digital practices such as AI in photography and its impact.
This week’s discussion with include final reflections plus assessments from this year’s Paris Photo, as well as various galleries’ offerings and recent auction results.
Details on how to access the sessions will be confirmed upon registration. Please check your junk folders if you haven't received an email from TPG staff confirming your place.
Paris Photo with The Photographers' Gallery
As part of the course, we are offering the opportunity to put your skills to the test in Paris for the international and historic Paris Photo art fair. With activities on Friday 8 November 2024, the programme includes events that will have you mingling with experienced collectors and photography patrons and a special tour of the fair on Friday afternoon, informing you on how and what to buy.
Limited places, open to course bookers. Please write to info@tpg.org.uk for more details, otherwise you can reserve your place by clicking here.
Biography
Brandei Estes was recently appointed Director of Chausse 36 Photography (Berlin). In 2023 Ms Estes left Sotheby’s as the Head of Photographs in Europe, Middle East and Asia, having started in 2013 following ten years of working in photography and contemporary art galleries in London and Paris.
Ms. Estes is regularly a judge and nominator for numerous international photography awards including the Prix Pictet and the Louis Roederer Photography Prize for Sustainability, and served for five years as the Chair for the Associate Patrons Advisory Committee of The Photographers’ Gallery TPG Contemporaries. Ms. Estes lectures throughout the year on collecting photographs and the photography market for public and private institutions, museums, galleries and fairs in the UK and continental Europe.
Ms. Estes is a graduate of University College London, where she received a double honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Italian and History of Art.
