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Learn the proper etiquette for interacting with someone famous
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It’s always a thrill to encounter a celeb, whether it’s at an official event or out and about. And it’s tempting to rush in and ask for their signature, or to pose for a photo, but before you do, keep in mind that celebrities are people like anyone else, and that there’s a time, place, and etiquette for approaching them. That’s why we’re here to help with an easy guide on judging if it’s a good time to ask, and also how to do the asking.
Things You Should Know
- Approach celebrities at official events, or when they’re not already busy. Avoid approaching them when they’re with family or already engaged in an activity.
- Start with a short introduction and make your request brief, polite, and casual, such as “Excuse me, I recognized you and I’m a fan. Would you mind autographing this for me?”
- Avoid touching the celebrity without permission, and thank them for their time, even if they decline your request.
Steps
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Respect a celebrity’s private and personal time. Celebrities have their own private lives, even when they’re out in public, and may not respond well to being approached out of the blue. Signing autographs and taking photos is part of their work life, so respect their “time off.” As a general rule of thumb, steer clear if the celebrity is with their family or spending time with someone already. [1] X Research source
- It’s especially important to avoid asking for autographs or photos while a celebrity is with their children. They may wish to protect their children’s safety and relative anonymity.
- Also avoid asking if you’re in an enclosed space, like an elevator, where they might feel trapped or obligated to do as you ask.
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Avoid interrupting celebrities. Think about how you’d feel if someone asked you to answer a work call while you’re at dinner with a friend. It’s the same with a celebrity! If they’re already engaged in something—dinner, a conversation, or even business—avoid approaching them, and try again another time.
- The best time to ask for an autograph is at an official event, like a meet and greet or signing, where the celebrity is expected to interact with fans.
- Also avoid lingering until they’re done. If you have to, go somewhere nearby and enjoy yourself, then check back in 15-20 minutes.
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Plan what you’ll say beforehand. Plan ahead by knowing what you will say to the celebrity. Phrases that are appropriate are, “Can I have your autograph?” or “I really like your work, may I have an autograph or a picture?”
- Avoid saying things like, “I really hate to do this, but may I take a picture with you?” or “I really didn’t want to bother you, but my friend wanted me to ask for a photo of you.” These don’t come across as sincere.
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Have your materials ready. A celebrity who agrees to sign something or pose for a photo is already taking time out of their day for you, so try to minimize that time by being prepared. Have your own pen (and a backup), camera, or item to be signed handy, and make sure they work beforehand. [2] X Research source
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Let any kids ask them first. Chances are, you’re not the only person who’s spotted the celebrity from afar. Consequently, there might be other people, including children, asking for an autograph or a picture as well. Let the children go first—not only is it the right thing to do, but kids are more likely to get the autograph, anyway. [3] X Research source
- Definitely avoid pushing or chastising children, which isn’t a good look and may make the celebrity decide not to give you their autograph.
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Stay polite and casual. Say “please” when asking, and say “Thank you for your time,” even if they decline. Celebrities deserve respect just like anyone else. And, they also deserve peace, so avoid drawing attention with loud excitement, shouting, or clamoring. Treat them like an acquaintance. [4] X Research source
- Open with something short and simple, then make your request. You might say, “Excuse me, I’m a fan and I recognized you. If it’s not too much trouble, could we take a picture together?”
- Also, approach them from the front or side. Avoid startling them from behind, or touching them to get their attention.
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Thank them for their work, but be conscious of their time. If the moment allows, say something like, “I’ve always admired your work,” or, “Thank you for your amazing art,” but don’t linger. Be aware that celebrities have places to be, and that there may be other people waiting to get an autograph or a picture, too. [5] X Research source
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Stick to a single autograph or photo, rather than multiple. Further respect the celebrity’s time and energy by ending the interaction after they give one signature, or take one photo. This lets them get on with their day, or greet other waiting fans.
- Also, asking them to sign multiple things can be suspicious, as some “fans” sell autographs for a profit.
- Avoid asking them to sign odd things, like body parts, clothing, toilet seats, or other unconventional objects. The celebrity might find it offensive and you may not get an autograph.
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Respect their personal space and consent. Consent applies to touching celebs, too. Always ask for things like a handshake, or a close pose for a photograph, and respect their answer. If you respect their personal space, and follow the celebrity’s lead on how to act around them, they'll be more willing to accept your request.
- Also, avoid filming the encounter, which can be incredibly awkward and apply needless pressure to the celebrity.
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Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat should I do if I ask someone for their autograph, but then I realize it wasn't the celebrity at all, just some normal person?Community AnswerJust apologize, and explain that you thought he/she was a celebrity. They will probably be flattered!
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QuestionI want to meet a celebrity, but it's too expensive and far away to go. What do I do?Community AnswerYou can call him/her (or email, tweet, etc.), set up a Skype with the celebrity, or you can have him/her as a friend on social media. You could try to get the celebrity to come to your town or city to do a play or a concert (if the celebrity is a musician).
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QuestionHow can I thank an actress for a selfie?Community AnswerIt's quite simple; just say "Thank you for your time. I appreciate it."
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Tips
- Avoid celebrities who are known to decline autographs or other requests, if you’re aware of them. Asking them anyway is disrespectful.Thanks
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Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about asking for an autograph, check out our in-depth interview with Greg James Blount .
References
- ↑ https://laist.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/best-way-to-approach-a-celebrity-tips
- ↑ https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/articles/getting-your-favorite-golfers-autograph
- ↑ https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/articles/getting-your-favorite-golfers-autograph
- ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2016/05/02/how-to-take-a-photo-with-your-favorite-celebrity-an-etiquette-guide/
- ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2016/05/02/how-to-take-a-photo-with-your-favorite-celebrity-an-etiquette-guide/
About This Article
Article Summary
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If you’ve spotted a celebrity and want to ask for their autograph or a photo, plan what you want to say to them ahead of time. You can’t fail with polite phrases like “May I have your autograph?” or “I really like your work, may I have an autograph or picture?”. You’ll also want to be mindful of their time, so be prepared with your materials so you don’t waste time fumbling for paper or adjusting the settings on your smartphone camera. Additionally, if you know you’ll be at the same place as celebrities, like a concert or appearance, keep a pen and paper sitting in your back pocket for easy access. For more tips, including how to determine the appropriate time to ask, scroll down!
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- "This helped so much. I was at a shopping center and saw this girl I knew off YouTube, so I asked for an autograph. I think she may have been more excited about it than me. Then she asked if I wanted to go to a cafe with her. Best day of my life." ..." more
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"This helped so much. I was at a shopping center and saw this girl I knew off YouTube, so I asked for an autograph. I think she may have been more excited about it than me. Then she asked if I wanted to go to a cafe with her. Best day of my life."
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