RM,
Regarding the autograph hound thing, my two-cents worth is this: I have only asked once to have him sign something. I wish I had more. I do not mean to imply at all more is bad. Its just all I was ever inclined to do, never over-rationalized it.
In my case, I wanted something that made me think of the ...rather...impressive things Gordon has done, one of which, as I mentioned above, is canoeing, and my paddle. Knowing Gord has taken numerous several-hundred mile canoe and sea-kayak trips, which having done both - MUCH shorter trips, too, I find impressive as hell.
With that in mind, I bought the paddle with the express intent of him signing it on my 40th birthday in '98, so I could hang it on the wall in my den/office, and think of his accomplishments, when listening to his music. Thats all, personally, never was much for the photo thing, though I understand those who are.
~geo steve