6 answers
Isabella
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
4
Questions
Asked
462 views
Whats the best way to start a portfolio for graphic design?
What would be good things to put in a portfolio?
Login to comment
6 answers
Daniel Gonzalez
Graphic Designer
1
Answer
Jamul, California
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
A good start to put into a portfolio is your design work whether its from clients or personal as well as showcasing your workflow and or creating design case studies. When creating case studies do give an explanation on what you or the client's goals was and how you managed achieve those goals. Try to showcase some of your best designs and in your work. Another great thing to add to your portfolio is an about me page or section to give the viewer a good idea on who you are and what you do. If you do have anymore questions feel free to ask them!
Kris Bergen
Principal Design Director
1
Answer
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Here are a few thoughts as a hiring manager of designers:
1) Presentation: There is no good reason to have a badly designed portfolio. There are sites like Wix that have templates, mobile responsive etc that you can quickly get set up. If you are not going to be applying for a coding job, leave it up to someone else and focus on your story. Remember it is about the work but the presentation of that work is a representation of your passion for design. The details matter. Spelling matters, interaction design matters, organization of your work. Do research on how others are putting their work together and really try to understand why it is good and follow those principles. Is it a single scroll page or sections with navigation? To this point, I personally like single scroll pages that lead to details. IT keeps things simple and allows me to target a project quickly and then get the details. Regardless of the specifics, think how someone will go through your work and understand your story. You are a storyteller, this is a representation of your skills. Be diligent on this.
2) The hiring manager: Much like we do when designing, is put yourself in the hiring managers shoes. Be efficient and be clear. There is a balance of having too much info and not enough. Lean on the side of less is more but make sure the right info is there. When hiring designers it is about the work but it is really how someone thinks and approaches things. Show your process, sketches if you do so or whiteboard images are important to show you have a process and are not just making things pretty with no insights or data.
3) Don't just show the final work, quickly explain what the design challenge was and the impact your work had. The best scenarios are generally when you can mix a little but of data, either metrics that improved or research insights that lead you to the output.
4) Keep designing. Always, Everyday. Your work will get better. Keep producing. To this point, dont show anything that isnt your best work. If you dont have that much great work . .re-read the first sentance. :) When I started I created mock projects and documented my process as I went along as I didnt have practical experience but wanted a job. I created mock businesses as well as went to some local businesses that had really bad branding and asked them if I can do some work for free so I could also say in interviews I have worked with clients.
Hope something in here helps. Each hiring manager is different for what they look for so this is only how I approach things. Good luck!
1) Presentation: There is no good reason to have a badly designed portfolio. There are sites like Wix that have templates, mobile responsive etc that you can quickly get set up. If you are not going to be applying for a coding job, leave it up to someone else and focus on your story. Remember it is about the work but the presentation of that work is a representation of your passion for design. The details matter. Spelling matters, interaction design matters, organization of your work. Do research on how others are putting their work together and really try to understand why it is good and follow those principles. Is it a single scroll page or sections with navigation? To this point, I personally like single scroll pages that lead to details. IT keeps things simple and allows me to target a project quickly and then get the details. Regardless of the specifics, think how someone will go through your work and understand your story. You are a storyteller, this is a representation of your skills. Be diligent on this.
2) The hiring manager: Much like we do when designing, is put yourself in the hiring managers shoes. Be efficient and be clear. There is a balance of having too much info and not enough. Lean on the side of less is more but make sure the right info is there. When hiring designers it is about the work but it is really how someone thinks and approaches things. Show your process, sketches if you do so or whiteboard images are important to show you have a process and are not just making things pretty with no insights or data.
3) Don't just show the final work, quickly explain what the design challenge was and the impact your work had. The best scenarios are generally when you can mix a little but of data, either metrics that improved or research insights that lead you to the output.
4) Keep designing. Always, Everyday. Your work will get better. Keep producing. To this point, dont show anything that isnt your best work. If you dont have that much great work . .re-read the first sentance. :) When I started I created mock projects and documented my process as I went along as I didnt have practical experience but wanted a job. I created mock businesses as well as went to some local businesses that had really bad branding and asked them if I can do some work for free so I could also say in interviews I have worked with clients.
Hope something in here helps. Each hiring manager is different for what they look for so this is only how I approach things. Good luck!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4009
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Isabella!
Imagine having a fantastic collection of graphic designs that are nothing short of phenomenal. Picture them with colors so vibrant and intense, they practically leap off the page, blending seamlessly into one another. Make sure your portfolio is not just beautiful, but also diverse and thrilling. And if you can code, that's the cherry on top!
It's wonderful to guide and inspire young minds, playing the role of a mentor or a teacher. Nowadays, even tiny tots are getting a head start in coding classes. Having a top-notch laptop would definitely be a great advantage.
As for me, I'm a big fan of Dell laptops from Texas, especially when they're running Windows 11 with Microsoft Visual Studio Professional version 2017. I've been in the programming game for 51 years now. The rise of artificial intelligence is an exciting prospect for humanity, but we must handle it with care - it's like a genie that needs to be kept in check, not allowed to run wild. Have fun!
Take care and God bless,
Jim
Imagine having a fantastic collection of graphic designs that are nothing short of phenomenal. Picture them with colors so vibrant and intense, they practically leap off the page, blending seamlessly into one another. Make sure your portfolio is not just beautiful, but also diverse and thrilling. And if you can code, that's the cherry on top!
It's wonderful to guide and inspire young minds, playing the role of a mentor or a teacher. Nowadays, even tiny tots are getting a head start in coding classes. Having a top-notch laptop would definitely be a great advantage.
As for me, I'm a big fan of Dell laptops from Texas, especially when they're running Windows 11 with Microsoft Visual Studio Professional version 2017. I've been in the programming game for 51 years now. The rise of artificial intelligence is an exciting prospect for humanity, but we must handle it with care - it's like a genie that needs to be kept in check, not allowed to run wild. Have fun!
Take care and God bless,
Jim
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4009
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Greetings Isabella from Elk River! This is James reaching out from the Gold Coast, located on the eastern side of Australia. I've received your question about graphic design portfolio creation!
Creating a graphic design portfolio is a crucial step in demonstrating your abilities and drawing the attention of potential clients or employers. A well-organized, aesthetically pleasing portfolio can help you shine in this competitive field. Here are some steps to consider when initiating your graphic design portfolio:
1. Identify your objectives: Before you start building your portfolio, it's vital to clarify your goals and target audience. Are you aiming to attract freelance clients or are you seeking a position at a design agency? Knowing your objectives will guide you in customizing your portfolio.
2. Select your finest work: The right pieces in your portfolio are key. Choose a range of projects that display your skills and proficiency. Include examples of various design styles, such as branding, web design, print materials, illustrations, or motion graphics. Prioritize quality over quantity and present your most impressive and relevant projects.
3. Arrange and curate: After collecting your work, organize it in a visually appealing and logical manner. Consider creating sections or categories for easy navigation. Arrange the projects to highlight your growth as a designer and emphasize your strongest pieces.
4. Establish an online presence: In the digital era, an online portfolio is crucial. Create a website or use platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or Adobe Portfolio to display your work. Ensure the website design is clean, user-friendly, and represents your personal brand as a designer.
5. Offer context: When showcasing each project, provide background information about the client or brief you received. Explain the problem you were addressing and your approach to the design process. This context helps potential clients or employers understand your creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
6. Display process work: Besides the final designs, consider showing some behind-the-scenes process work. This could include sketches, wireframes, mockups, or design iterations. Displaying your creative process can provide insight into your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
7. Incorporate client testimonials or feedback: If you've received positive feedback or testimonials from clients, consider adding them to your portfolio. Testimonials add credibility and demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively with clients.
8. Regularly update: A portfolio is a dynamic showcase of your skills and should be updated regularly as you complete new projects. Remove outdated or weaker pieces and replace them with stronger work that aligns with your current goals and style.
9. Seek feedback: Don't hesitate to seek feedback from fellow designers, mentors, or industry professionals. Constructive criticism can help you enhance your portfolio and identify areas for improvement.
10. Promote your portfolio: Once your portfolio is ready, actively promote it through social media, design communities, and networking events. Engage with other designers and potential clients to increase visibility and opportunities.
In a nutshell, creating a graphic design portfolio involves identifying goals, curating a selection of your best work, arranging it in an aesthetically pleasing manner, establishing an online presence, providing context for each project, displaying process work, incorporating client testimonials, regularly updating, seeking feedback, and actively promoting it.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Adobe Portfolio (https://portfolio.adobe.com/)
2. Behance (https://www.behance.net/)
3. Dribbble (https://dribbble.com/)
I hope this guidance is beneficial for you!
Best,
James
Creating a graphic design portfolio is a crucial step in demonstrating your abilities and drawing the attention of potential clients or employers. A well-organized, aesthetically pleasing portfolio can help you shine in this competitive field. Here are some steps to consider when initiating your graphic design portfolio:
1. Identify your objectives: Before you start building your portfolio, it's vital to clarify your goals and target audience. Are you aiming to attract freelance clients or are you seeking a position at a design agency? Knowing your objectives will guide you in customizing your portfolio.
2. Select your finest work: The right pieces in your portfolio are key. Choose a range of projects that display your skills and proficiency. Include examples of various design styles, such as branding, web design, print materials, illustrations, or motion graphics. Prioritize quality over quantity and present your most impressive and relevant projects.
3. Arrange and curate: After collecting your work, organize it in a visually appealing and logical manner. Consider creating sections or categories for easy navigation. Arrange the projects to highlight your growth as a designer and emphasize your strongest pieces.
4. Establish an online presence: In the digital era, an online portfolio is crucial. Create a website or use platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or Adobe Portfolio to display your work. Ensure the website design is clean, user-friendly, and represents your personal brand as a designer.
5. Offer context: When showcasing each project, provide background information about the client or brief you received. Explain the problem you were addressing and your approach to the design process. This context helps potential clients or employers understand your creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
6. Display process work: Besides the final designs, consider showing some behind-the-scenes process work. This could include sketches, wireframes, mockups, or design iterations. Displaying your creative process can provide insight into your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
7. Incorporate client testimonials or feedback: If you've received positive feedback or testimonials from clients, consider adding them to your portfolio. Testimonials add credibility and demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively with clients.
8. Regularly update: A portfolio is a dynamic showcase of your skills and should be updated regularly as you complete new projects. Remove outdated or weaker pieces and replace them with stronger work that aligns with your current goals and style.
9. Seek feedback: Don't hesitate to seek feedback from fellow designers, mentors, or industry professionals. Constructive criticism can help you enhance your portfolio and identify areas for improvement.
10. Promote your portfolio: Once your portfolio is ready, actively promote it through social media, design communities, and networking events. Engage with other designers and potential clients to increase visibility and opportunities.
In a nutshell, creating a graphic design portfolio involves identifying goals, curating a selection of your best work, arranging it in an aesthetically pleasing manner, establishing an online presence, providing context for each project, displaying process work, incorporating client testimonials, regularly updating, seeking feedback, and actively promoting it.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Adobe Portfolio (https://portfolio.adobe.com/)
2. Behance (https://www.behance.net/)
3. Dribbble (https://dribbble.com/)
I hope this guidance is beneficial for you!
Best,
James
Mustapha Dauda
Web designer
1
Answer
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Mustapha’s Answer
A simple design is usually the key. Sometime, prospective clients want to be sure they are dealing with a genuine graphic designer and not just quack. You can sign up with dribble or pinteress since they are free. Ensure that your artworks are well arranged and categorized to their respective categories for visitors to review and access easily. You have high chances of getting your first project once clients find your job interesting and presentable.
Wish you good luck!
Wish you good luck!
Richard Smith
Co-owner and Design Partner at 11:22 Creative Design, LLC
31
Answers
Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Starting a graphic design portfolio can help showcase your skills and attract clients or employers. Here are steps to begin a comprehensive strategy:
1. Create Strong Work: Begin by creating a variety of design pieces, including logos, websites, posters, etc., to showcase your skills.
2. Select Your Best Work: Choose pieces that best represent your style and abilities. Quality is more important than quantity.
3. Online Presence: Create a website or use portfolio platforms like Behance or Dribbble to showcase your work. Keep it clean and easy to navigate.
4. Case Studies: Include descriptions or case studies for each project. Explain your design process, challenges, and how you solved them.
5. Contact Information: Make sure your contact information is readily available for potential clients or employers.
6. Organize and Categorize: Arrange your work into categories or themes for easier browsing.
7. Keep It Updated: Regularly update your portfolio with new projects to show your growth and versatility.
8. Seek Feedback: Ask for feedback from peers or mentors to improve your portfolio.
9. Printed Portfolio: Consider creating a printed version for in-person interviews or meetings.
10. Personal Branding: Ensure your portfolio and website reflect your personal brand and design style.
11. Networking: Attend design events, join online communities, and connect with other designers to build your network.
12. Online and Offline Marketing: Promote your portfolio on social media and consider traditional marketing methods.
The development of a graphic design portfolio is an ongoing process. Continuously refining your work and presentation will help you stand out in the competitive field of graphic design.
1. Create Strong Work: Begin by creating a variety of design pieces, including logos, websites, posters, etc., to showcase your skills.
2. Select Your Best Work: Choose pieces that best represent your style and abilities. Quality is more important than quantity.
3. Online Presence: Create a website or use portfolio platforms like Behance or Dribbble to showcase your work. Keep it clean and easy to navigate.
4. Case Studies: Include descriptions or case studies for each project. Explain your design process, challenges, and how you solved them.
5. Contact Information: Make sure your contact information is readily available for potential clients or employers.
6. Organize and Categorize: Arrange your work into categories or themes for easier browsing.
7. Keep It Updated: Regularly update your portfolio with new projects to show your growth and versatility.
8. Seek Feedback: Ask for feedback from peers or mentors to improve your portfolio.
9. Printed Portfolio: Consider creating a printed version for in-person interviews or meetings.
10. Personal Branding: Ensure your portfolio and website reflect your personal brand and design style.
11. Networking: Attend design events, join online communities, and connect with other designers to build your network.
12. Online and Offline Marketing: Promote your portfolio on social media and consider traditional marketing methods.
The development of a graphic design portfolio is an ongoing process. Continuously refining your work and presentation will help you stand out in the competitive field of graphic design.