DIY Photo Portfolio
Whether you are an amateur photographer or on the verge of going professional, there comes a point when a photographer needs to take a serious look at his work and begin building a photo portfolio. A well-planned portfolio will target the level of business you want to attract.
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Function
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What you choose to show in your photo portfolio will depend upon the kind of work you are seeking. For this reason, many photographers have more than one portfolio (also known as the "book") to allow them to fine-tune their works to best attract the needs of each client.
Since your photo portfolio is your calling card and a visual example of your style and approach, Susan Myers of art Bistro recommends that your portfolio basics include an artist resume and bio, an artist statement, work samples, press clippings or reviews of artwork, and a query or cover letter.
Features
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A photo portfolio should be a streamlined representation of your work. Keep your focus strong and don't make your portfolio a mixed collection of work. Too much variety in a single portfolio shows the photographer does not have a single and sustainable focus. As you plan your photo portfolio, while the photos you select are key, just as important are your theme, photo size and book selection.
Theme--A clearly communicated and unifying theme should run through your portfolio. You may choose to highlight your style, the type of work (corporate, editorial, candid), the industry (food, fashion, travel, healthcare), the subject (people, products, environmental), conceptual themes (emotions, traits, an idea), or technical themes (light manipulation, black and white, abstract, macro). Choose a theme that means something to you and shows your strongest work.
Photo selection--Select 10 to 15 photographs that unify your theme.
Photo size--Photo portfolios come in various sizes based on the client you wish to attract. While 4-by-7, 8-by-10 or 11-by-14 are common portfolio sizes, 8-by-10 looks professional without being overly expensive when making prints. When selecting size, also weigh in shipping methods, materials and cost.
Book selection--Choose a book style that meets the medium of your client. Keep it clean and simple; a black book with black pages allows your photographs to pop from the page. Maintain the style of the photography with a book that represents the field. Books can be purchased at your local art store; you may also find suitable books at office supply stores and from photo archiving suppliers.
Considerations
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Should you show your photo portfolio digital (CD, web) or in a book? This question boils down to who you are showing your work to and whom you want to attract. The more venues you can market yourself in, the greater your advantage of capturing clientele.
Prints--A photo quality desktop printer gives you the advantage of updating and customizing your portfolio book on the fly. Choose a printer that will print photographs the size of your book selection.
Website--A website is essential in making sales to web-aware clients.
Digital--A CD/DVD or thumb key digital portfolio is a powerful marketing tool that can be given to the client. However, you need to consider the computer system on which the user may display your images and modify your files to be universal.
It is important to take the time to plan and build your portfolio well before you need it so you are not rushed in bringing it together. Your portfolio is a valuable tool in your arsenal as a photographer, and it is the first opportunity you have to impress and influence clients.
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