Copies vs Originals

I received an email this morning asking if I used copies or originals in my work.  Years ago, I used to make copies of my favorite images but now I just use originals. The only exception is when there's a super, cool, amazing image on the back and I'm torn between which to use. Only then will I make copies. It doesn't happen often. Using the originals NOW and not waiting to make copies works better for me. There's an abundance of collage ephemera out there. Working this way also seems to make our stash less precious and you quickly get over the attitude of, "I'm saving that for the perfect page!"  Using what you have and what's in front of you puts you in the now and I find it makes for easier work as well as less money and time wasted running around making copies of everything. It forces you to step outside of the familiar and to keep your eyes open for new source material, new ways of looking at your tools. I have an inkjet printer at home but I only use it for my class handouts. When I need to make color copies, I head to the local copy shop. Occasionally, I like to make color copies of my finished journal pages and rework the copies. It's a really good creative push. It also enables you to use favorite images again in a new way.