When you write to people, do you tell them how their work has influenced you in some way? If the answer is yes, you're unusual.

And, also, do you try to discuss their work a little bit, and offer your opinions on their work? Because not many do; and, within reason, celebs like to see it.

Obviously, you cannot ask exhaustive questions as this is just daunting, but one or two, and your opinions on what they do can help to show a real interest in their work and help get a reply from them.

If you are writing to a lesser known person, or someone who has more time than most, you may even be able to enter into communication with them, if that is what you want, via this method.

A fair few collectors have had this experience: by showing an interest, and saying how the person's work has affected their lives, they have had a few mails back and forth with a person whose (originally) autograph they wanted, and nothing else.

The trick is in what you write, and the trick here is really to try and make a connection between yourself and the person in question. This can take whatever form possible, and is very effective in helping to guarantee a reply.

You have to try and think of anything: were you born in the same state or country as them? Have they had kids recently and you know what that feels like?

Have you met them before? Have you spoken to, or written to their colleagues/teammates/co-stars and got their autograph?

If so, then this is a great one to work it: casually mention how, when you wrote to their co-star you commented on how well they had worked together, and if that person agreed, then even better!

Whatever, any way in which you can make a connection between you and the person for whose autograph you want, the more likely you are to get it!