</span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (jdef @ Dec 21 2002, 11:15 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'>If I want to exchange my prints for those of comparable quality I can go to the high school! The thought of comparing my printing skills to yours (Jorge) is enough to put me off the whole idea. My intention is to send a print to those I'd like to exchange with, no strings/expectations/obligations attached, and if that person feels like sending me a print, I will gratefully accept, with no illusions of parity on my part. I will understand completely if no print is offered in return, and will take no offense. I am overwhelmed with work right now, and awaiting delivery of my first box of Azo, but when it arrives along with the Amidol, I will make a print for Jorge, even though I know I have many, many prints to make before I approach his level of skill. Being a beginner, it's easy for me to disregard others' skill levels compared to mine, and I understand that the reverse is not necessarily true. The fact is that there are not enough of you to worry about from an expense point of view, even if I made prints for all of you, and If I recieved a single print in return, I'd be well rewarded. I realize that this is not a model many would adopt, but it satisfies my aspirations. I look forward to participating in the revolving portfolio as well.-jdf</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
No, no, no, Jay I think you misunderstand me. For example you might post a portrait that I like ( and judging from your examples at PN you have some very nice ones) if so I would not mind exchanging with you. My whole point is, the posting in a gallery will give people a chance to make at least an initial judgement and decide to exchange a print with such person. Being able to see the print would be an advantage and would put aside the "skill" factor. I mean if I liked your print then who cares if it is your first print ever, no? Of course if I see a print with no contrast, or dust, or of aunt Mary, then I might not want to exchange with this person. OTOH if the print is more or less well scanned (oh boy I am completely ignorant about how to do this!) and shows a nice image, why would I think your "skill" level is below mine? As far as I am concerned the results are what matter.....not how many years you have spent under a light bulb.
Also this idea I have it is so that those who place a certain importance in the provenance of a print would also have the opportunity to participate. Lets face it not everybody thinks like you or me, some people might want to exchange only azo prints, ot pt prints, this way they also have a chance without looking like jerks for refusing someone. For instance I might post a 12x20 pt print, and specify I want a comparable size contact print. This way those who wish to exchange 3x5 shoots of fido will know I am not the one to contact. Sounds good?