So now that we’ve gone over getting your business cards and letterhead designed, as well as having an online presence, it’s time to think about putting your offline portfolio together. In other words, a hard copy portfolio; is something tangible that clients can view up close and personal.

A few main things you may want to consider are size, quality of photo paper, and creativity. Not all portfolios are created equal. We’re photographers with creative minds, so think outside of the box to stand out from the crowd.

I had a friend who was a graphic designer, and his entire portfolio theme was created from laundromat materials. Detergent, a measuring scoop, a dirty clothes hamper, and a bunch of other goodies!

His idea to pitch to clients was “Bring your design to me, for a cleaning, and you’ll be happy will a fresh and clean business brand”

I thought it was brilliant, and it stood out from everyone’s presentation. However, as photographers, our portfolio will of course consist of mainly photos. Finding a unique way to present it is what’s important. Be sure to do your research on quality paper.

Different types of paper will print in a way you may love or hate. Glossy surfaces are great for popping colorful images, while matte is more for subtle images, and can also be great for black-and-white images to show the gradient from black to white.

Take the time to put a professional-looking portfolio together. Just a heads up, using the portfolios where you simply slide your picture into the clear pocket will tell the world that you’re still a student.

You want to approach new business on a professional level, whether you’re still a student or not. It will help bypass any preconceived notions a new client may have, and take you more seriously.

A nice way of presenting your images is spray mounting them on matte boards and storing them in a one-of-a-kind case. Maybe one that you designed yourself, that shows your personality and style of work. Or you can get one designed for you.

Just remember, you should try having at least two portfolios always on hand. Just in case a design house in New York wants to see your work, while one in London is interested at the same time.

It doesn’t make sense to have to wait for a company to send you your portfolio back, while another company waits. You don’t want to miss out on any opportunities. So invest in having more than one portfolio to send out, you’ll need it!:)

A great place to search for quality portfolios is DickBlick.com. They have a huge assortment to choose from.

However, there are many other companies besides art supply stores where you may find something unique and one-of-a-kind. So use those creative juices you were blessed with and get working on your hard copy portfolio!

Next time, we’ll go over considering having a blog, to keep people updated with your career!

Until next time, keep shooting!:)