It's really not as complicated as you may think...
If you're not sure about an autograph, you send it to PSA or JSA. Even if you ARE sure. you still send it in eventually.
Same goes for photos. Unless the caption is embedded in the photo (TYPE 3) than send it in. Now, a dose of common sense should be used here. If it's a HOF player, historic moment, or a very rare image of a dead-ball player, etc. by all means SEND THEM IN. If it's more of a sentimental favorite, I don't feel that would be necessary.
There are many other factors involved when determining if a photo is a TYPE I or 2. Send it in to PSA and let Marshall Fogel & Henry Yee inform you as to what you have. Pricing is very reasonable and I do believe there are multiple discounts, not to mention the value and ease of selling when you choose to do so.
When the time comes for me to sell my collection off, even if it's just a few at a time, you can bet your a*s that they will be authenticated by PSA in order to secure buyer confidence and maximize value. No question about it.
I'm always happy to help the best I can for any board member if you want an honest "free" second opinion on a photo. Send hi-res scans FRONT & BACK to:
thekingofclout@yahoo.com
Best regards, Jimmy
"Hopefully I did not offend anyone, I guess I am just too passionate about my beloved Sports Photos! Rhys Yeakley"
Also, I love the above statement by Rhys. Met him at the Nat'l and did some business with him. A terrific guy with the same passion that more and more fellow board members are starting to have regarding this great sector of the hobby.
One more thing...
Believe me, it's worth taking the time to learn enough to be able to bid with some confidence. Especially since the thousands of photos that are available on ebay and from auction houses. Many gems can be bought for the $10-100 range. There are terrific images for any budget. What other sector of the hobby can make that claim?
Collecting these incredible relics will bring more pleasure to you than you can possibly imagine at this time, and I'm sure a lot of you guys that started collecting photos in the last year or two will concur!