30 Tips for Perfecting Your Graphic Design Portfolio

Designers can get caught up in the job search process and put more emphasis on updating their resumes than their portfolios. Both pieces are equally important when it comes to successfully securing a position as a paid artist. When it comes to art and design, words on a page aren’t going to be enough.

Create a stunning and effective portfolio by following these tips:

1. Prepare 2 portfolios, one for use online and the other for in-hand.
2. Printed copies should be on nice paper and kept in a case/cover.
3. Like a resume, keep portfolio limited to one page in order to direct the viewer’s eyes and focus their actions.
4. Limit the number of pieces presented to top 10 or less.
5. Tailor selections for specific uses, freelance work or interviews.
6. Choose work that creates conversation.
7. Be prepared to talk about the results of each projects.
8. Consider the audience’s needs and offer similar samples.
9. Show range of styles and formats.
10. Tell a story with selections that shows a unique design point of view.
11. List skills and experience.
12. Mix in personality and professionalism.
13. Create self branding to make a lasting impression with a personal logo and tagline.
14. Order is important; the first example should be strong and all subsequent examples should be stronger than the previous one.
15. Select the first and last pieces presented carefully because they will have the most impact.
16. Include thumbnails for an overview of all the samples.
17. Put in some parts of the process like sketches and concepts to contrast the finished project but not for every piece.
18. Use captions unified in font size and placement to explain the process and the role played in it.
19. Highlight a call to action.
20. Offer contact information alternatives like phone, email, address and social networking.
21. Keep portfolio up to date.
22. Insert tearsheets, clippings and print-screens from media outlets that discuss or review work.
23. Incorporate photos of printed materials after production.
24. Link to active URLs.
25. Demonstrate creativity and professional skills.
26. Don’t let the presentation format overshadow the pieces displayed.
27. Be prepared to edit, sometimes less is more.
28. Ask colleagues for constructive criticism.
29. Present examples of desire projects instead of just work that’s been done in the past.
30. Go above and beyond by creating a custom sample.
     

If an applicant doesn’t have a portfolio at all or hasn’t revisited it since graduating from school, they won’t be able to compete with the fresh and focused aesthetics other potential employees may offer. It’s worth the time investment to revise an outdated or ineffective portfolio. Look online for inspiration.

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos