Signing prints - what to use?

[Joe Copalman]

I have a client asking for a signed print.  I'm more than happy to oblige, but want to make sure I'm using something that can a)be seen, and b)won't bleed or break down the print around the area that's signed.  Any idea what is best in a case like this?  Would a Sharpie suffice?  Paint marker?  Any tips would be appreciated. 

[Matt Ottosen]

Acid free.

[Scott Youmans]

Joe, I've used the silver paint type Sharpies (or similar) but my favorite method is to scan a nicely done signature and apply it directly on the photo before I print it.  Sometimes I leave it on a separate layer to leave the option of using it or not or resizing it depending on the final size of the print. I can accurately control the size, placement, color, density, etc and I don't screw up 10 prints getting the signature to look right!  Not quite as personal but I've seen a lot of otherwise nice prints made into garbage by a sloppy signature.  If the buyer really wants it autographed you don't have that option. I have a number of nice mats with botched signatures that I might as well chuck for the same reason.  Maybe I just need to improve my penmanship!