FAQ
Subscription & Ordering
How does the LEDGER membership work?
You'll receive six bimonthly issues over the course of 12 months. Your subscription begins with the next available issue after you subscribe. "Annual" and "Collector's Edition" memberships constitute a 12-month commitment.
When will I receive my first issue?
Your membership begins with the next available bimonthly issue after purchase. For example, if you subscribe in March (preorder month), you'll receive your first issue in April. If you subscribe in April (after the March preorder has closed), you'll receive your first issue in June.
Can I buy single issues?
Yes. Single issues are available by signing up for the Issue membership (which can be canceled any time) during its presale month. Preorders close at the end of each presale month. Limited overrun copies may be available after publication at select bookstores while supplies last, but we cannot guarantee availability or pricing.
What if I miss a preorder period?
In order to guarantee you get a copy of an issue, you must sign up during the preorder time period. You can subscribe at any time to receive all remaining issues in your 12-month subscription period. Back issues and copies sent to our bookstore partners may be available while supplies last, but availability and pricing are not guaranteed.
Can I gift a membership?
Yes! Select "Gift Subscription" at checkout. You'll be able to provide the recipient's shipping address and an optional gift message. Gift subscriptions begin with the next available issue.
Collector's Edition
What's included in the Collector's Edition Membership?
Each Collector's Edition includes a numbered LEDGER issue plus a numbered archival print selected by the photographer or publisher, and signed if possible. You'll also receive a The Barbershop Art and Book Gallery or Safety First brand t-shirt with your first issue, plus many other benefits. See description on the Join page.
Why is the Collector's Edition subscription only?
The Collector's Edition requires more planning and handling with the addition of the signature and print. It is also designed for serious collectors who are building a complete LEDGER set and want a signed print. The subscription model ensures continuity and maintains the integrity of the limited-edition series.
How many Collector's Editions are available?
Currently only 100 Collector's Edition memberships are available worldwide. Once sold, a waitlist will be created for future openings.
Can I buy a single Collector's Edition issue?
Some issues may be available for purchase in person at The Barbershop Art and Book Gallery in Hamtramck, Michigan, or from us at book fairs, but the only way to guarantee you get one is to become a member.
What if the Collector's Edition is sold out?
If all 100 memberships are sold, you can join the waitlist. We'll notify you if a membership becomes available or if we expand the edition in future editions.
Shipping & Delivery
What is Media Mail?
Media Mail is a cost-effective USPS shipping method for books, magazines, and educational materials. Delivery typically takes 4 to 10 business days within the United States and territories.
Do you ship internationally?
International shipping options are available for an additional charge. Details are in the checkout.
What if my issue arrives damaged?
Contact us within two weeks of delivery at info@thebarbershop.ink with photos of the damage. We'll send a replacement copy at no charge while supplies last.
Can I change my shipping address?
Yes. Contact us at info@thebarbershop.ink with your updated address. Please provide notice at least two weeks before the next issue ships to ensure delivery to your new address.
Publication Schedule
When are issues published?
Issues are published and shipped bimonthly in February, April, June, August, October, and December.
When can I preorder each issue?
Presale periods are January, March, May, July, September, and November. Preorders close at the end of each presale month.
Cancellations and Refunds
Can I cancel my membership?
Memberships are 12-month commitments and cannot be canceled midterm. However, if you're unsatisfied with your first issue, contact us within 30 days of receiving it to cancel your membership and receive a prorated refund.
What's your return policy?
Due to the limited-run nature of LEDGER, we cannot accept returns. If your issue arrives damaged, we'll send a replacement at no charge while supplies last.
About the Publication
Who publishes LEDGER?
LEDGER is published by The Barbershop Art and Book Gallery in Hamtramck, Michigan. The Barbershop specializes in curated photography book collections and supports Metro Detroit's photography community.
How do you select photographers?
We invite photographers whose work demonstrates sustained attention to underexplored subjects or overlooked perspectives. We also accept submissions on our website. There is a $25 fee to submit work for consideration, but you will get a $25 credit to The Barbershop in exchange.
Can I submit my work for consideration?
Yes, we are currently accepting open submissions. There is a $25 fee, but you will get a $25 credit to The Barbershop in exchange.
Do photographers retain rights to their work?
Absolutely. LEDGER receives publication rights and rights to publish images to promote LEDGER and make prints for the Collector's Edition. Photographers retain all copyrights and can sell prints, license images, or republish their work.