For a graphic designer or anyone that is involved in the creative industry, having a portfolio is a must- no questions asked. A portfolio reflects your creativity and showcases your work to the potential clients. It serves as a true example of what you are capable of and what abilities you have to offer. It is just as important to have an online portfolio (on the internet) as well as an offline portfolio (printed folio). Having an offline portfolio is important when you have to physically meet your clients at their workplace, where it can be taken to meetings and interviews. On the other hand, creating a portfolio online is crucial because we live in a society that is digitally connected. So having an online portfolio will help you meet the potential clients and employers through the web, perhaps even whilst you are sleeping!
If you have an online portfolio, this means that anyone in the world with the help of an internet connection will be able to find you and view your work. An online portfolio also allows the potential clients and employers to view your work before they actually meet you. A digital portfolio allows you to create your desired brand image online — whether it is your own website or free online portfolio sites, such as Behance or, of late, even Pinterest is being used as a chance to expose your work online. A good portfolio will enable you to make connections, position yourself in the market and find a job. Creating a strong, eye-catching portfolio demands creativity so that it best reflects the abilities, experience and the skills of the designer.
Before preparing your portfolio, the audience for which it is designed for should be kept in mind. It is best to design an adaptable portfolio, that can be modified to fit any situation. A graphic design portfolio, whether online or offline, should be to the point and easy to read/navigate through. The best work should be kept as the first views, because nobody has the time to look into the entire portfolio. The work thus showcased should be convincing and impressive, so that it appeals the potential client or the employer. Fellow designers and creatives, I hope that this has convinced you to start compiling and creating your portfolio both on the internet, as well as having a printed version.
Be sure to check out Designz by Jamz online portfolios at Jamz Desingz and on the Behance network here.
