How-To: Portfolio Presentation for Photographers

As a photographer, finding joy with doing what we love and earning from it at the same time, gives us fulfillment and happiness. Anything this much fun is bound to generate interest to others who want to be photographers as well. Competition starts to flow high. Our portfolio is the key to landing the best job, assignment, and exhibition. We need to know how to present and prepare ourselves with a portfolio to get noticed. Success in this business is not defined by the number of pictures we take. Show off your portfolio to those you admire. Get feedback. Be willing to take criticism.

Editors, art buyers, creative directors, agents, and galleries will be attending NYC Fotoworks happening from June 13th to 17th, 2011 at Canoe Studios in Manhattan. It is a professional portfolio review for photographers and illustrators. Artist must apply and be accepted to join the event. This is where professional connections for visual artists happen. It will help artists gain the exposure needed to maintain or launch a successful career.

FACE YOUR CRITIC. LISTEN TO THEIR ADVICE. WATCH

How-To: Portfolio Presentation for Photographers

1. Create distinct portfolios for different purpose.

Know your client. Design and create your work that emphasizes your strength while eliminating your weaknesses. If you want to pursue more than one photographic theme, make another portfolio for that. Photojournalist tends to make ends meet by shooting weddings on the side. But the photo editor and the bride might get confuse if you tend to mix and show both images in one portfolio. The photo editor wants to see and feel your dedication to your job through your images. While a bride only wants your wedding portfolio and nothing unrelated to it.

2. Make a first impression with your chosen images.

View your portfolio through the eyes of another. Captivate them by showing only your best work, your photographic intent and consistency in shooting. You can use caption to explain the context of your images. Your first image must be a “page-turner” that will induce a sense of curiosity. While your last photo should establish confidence.

3. Demonstrate flexibility and technical proficiency.

Portray your images in diverse situations. Mix up landscape and portrait orientation of photos to create interest. Try to see the transition of color and types of lighting. But don’t lose focus on quality and content.

4. Make it easy for viewing

We do still need high quality print portfolio even if we are in the digital age now. It is a must for face-to-face meeting interview. Putting your portfolio online allows potential client to view your work anytime. Apple iPad, CDs and DVDs are convenient ways of sharing your work.

5. Dress up for who you really are.

You don’t need to wear a suit and a tie if that doesn’t complement your true self. It’s a photo world. Just be yourself and express your authentic style.

6. Be articulate.

As Editorial Photographer Marc Asnin said: You’ve usually only got about 10 minutes with an editor and you’ve got to be able to talk about what you do, who you are, or what you think of the world.

If you are not satisfied with your portfolio and you feel that it does not show your true capability, just pick up your camera and shoot. Go to your next photo opportunity adventure. For it takes time to build an outstanding portfolio. Do research work. Surround yourself with inspiration from the best known photographers around the world. Remember that your portfolio will always continue to grow.