In graphic design, a portfolio is used to win clients and projects. It is a culmination of your work and experience. The options you have for creating a portfolio include an online portfolio on a website, a brochure-style PDF, or the classic portfolio book with printed examples of your work.
When creating your portfolio, tailor it to the job and company you are applying to increase your chances of being hired. Put your most relevant information first in your portfolio, and be aware of short attention spans, don’t try to be comprehensive with your work.
Think of your graphic design portfolio as a resume and make it as professional as possible.
In your portfolio, showcase work that matches the industry you want to work in, demonstrates your best abilities, and solves real-life problems. You’ll want to include, according to Graphic Design Degree Hub, high-quality printed copies of your best work, screenshots of your online work, a few unexpected elements that make you unique, the story behind your work, with attractive shareable samples of your work.
Behance is an excellent source to generate creative ideas for your portfolio. Behance is a social media platform that features graphic design work such as posters, mood boards, branding, etc. They even have a section specifically for portfolio projects.
In your portfolio, avoid using too much jargon or buzzwords. Don’t be afraid to remove work that is no longer your best. Don’t make everything flat in your designs. Add variety to your designs and avoid printing everything straight from Illustrator or Sketch. Include some photos of designs being used or create some device mock-ups.
Stay away from using an identikit portfolio template or stock photography. You want to look inventive, not like you are copying someone else’s ideas. Using a minimal layout from a template works well. Making your portfolio personal and including personal projects is great but don’t get carried away with it and let it distract from the work you want to showcase within your portfolio.
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