How to identify a first printing
- Colophon states 'First published in [year] by Dewi Lewis Publishing'; for a first there is no added reprint line, and this first-published statement is the primary identifier.
- Reprints are stated ('Reprinted [year]' or 'Second edition'); UK convention adds reprint lines rather than deleting from a descending number line.
- Most titles are single-printing photobooks, so the absence of a reprint line together with the original ISBN supports a first.
- Occasional special or signed editions carry a numbered limitation statement.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1994 by Dewi Lewis and Caroline Warhurst. Before that Lewis established and ran Cornerhouse Publications in Manchester from 1987 until 1994 — a Cornerhouse-imprint photobook belongs to that earlier, separate lineage.
- Award-recognized house (Paris Photo–Aperture Photobook of the Year 2018; Rencontres d'Arles Author Book Prize 2018; PHotoEspaña 2014) with titles by Martin Parr, William Klein, Sergio Larrain and others; prize-winning firsts may carry stated reprints.
- US distribution has been handled through a US distribution arrangement; a US-distributed copy is the same UK edition, not a separate first.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Dewi Lewis Publishing, Dewi Lewis Media (related imprint), Cornerhouse Publications (Dewi Lewis's earlier publishing operation, 1987–1994). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Dewi Lewis Publishing book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Colophon states 'First published in [year] by Dewi Lewis Publishing'; for a first there is no added reprint line, and this first-published statement is the primary identifier. Reprints are stated ('Reprinted [year]' or 'Second edition'); UK convention adds reprint lines rather than deleting from a descending number line.
Does Dewi Lewis Publishing use a number line?
Reprints are stated ('Reprinted [year]' or 'Second edition'); UK convention adds reprint lines rather than deleting from a descending number line.
Is a book-club edition a Dewi Lewis Publishing first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1994 by Dewi Lewis and Caroline Warhurst. Before that Lewis established and ran Cornerhouse Publications in Manchester from 1987 until 1994 — a Cornerhouse-imprint photobook belongs to that earlier, separate lineage.
What era does this cover?
This covers Dewi Lewis Publishing (1994–present (Cornerhouse Publications lineage 1987–1994)). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.