How to Select a Portfolio

A well prepared portfolio will illustrate your best work to a prospective client.

Creating a portfolio is an essential step for any photographer hoping to move into the professional realm. Unlike a website or online gallery, a hard-copy portfolio can be taken with you anywhere to present to prospective clients. The portfolio is a chance to showcase some of your best work and should show a client you have taken the time to tailor it to their needs.

Instructions

1. Decide on the focus for your portfolio. This will be based on who your possible client is. The photo editor at your local newspaper, a recently engaged couple, or a fashion designer will all need to see different portfolios of images.

2. Select your photos. These should be your highest-quality images, with correct color balance and tasteful editing. Look for photos that illustrate your specific style or a point of view that sets you apart from the competition. Make sure you select photos that showcase a broad range of your abilities.

3. Show your selected photos to another person. It can be useful to have a second opinion about your selections, and the discussion could get you to think of other photos you may have neglected to include.

4. Print your selected photos at the highest quality possible. You can have this done at your local print shop or camera store, or online at websites such as Shutterfly and Snapfish.

5. Organize your photos in a compelling order. Your first two or three photos should be your absolute best, and draw the client in. Make sure you end with an amazing photo as well, something that will leave a lasting impression on your client.

6. Bind the photos in an album. This can be as simple as a quality leather-bound photo album from an office supply store, or a custom-designed album with elements of the theme of your portfolio. Remember, you will be presenting this to a client, so the presentation should illustrate your professional intentions.

Tips & Warnings

• Ideally your portfolio should include anywhere from 10 to 30 photos. You don't want to underwhelm your client with too few photos, or bore her with too many.

• Print more photos than you will use in the final portfolio. This will allow you to make last-minute changes if needed.