Introduction
to Photography.
Part 3
Tips for your Portfolio.
Your photography portfolio may be the single most
important thing that you can show to potential clients and employers.
Your list of qualifications and skills may be impressive, but at the
end of the day, clients look at your work - they look for
photographers who can produce work that shows technical skill and
unique visual talent. A good photography portfolio will do more to
boost your career than any other marketing tool in your arsenal
and Bla, bla, bla.
"Let your job (the photos) do the talking"
Include only your best work:
It's crucial that you include only your very best work
in your portfolio, even if your best work isn't necessarily your
favorite work. Your photography portfolio should not only show that
you've done good work, but also that you have the ability to identify
good photo. Choose 15 to 20 pieces that demonstrate your range of
technical skill as well as your unique vision. You may want to
consider using a portfolio that will allow you to easily change out
your work as you grow in your professional photography career.
Get a second opinion:
You can use an outside perspective from time to time.
Find someone you trust, someone who's an expert, and get his or her
honest opinion of your portfolio.
Customize your portfolio:
Display your most relevant work. If you're looking for
a wedding photography job, don't include examples of your commercial
photography work. While there may be occasions where you need to show versatility.
Have a unique perspective:
What sets you apart from other photographers? What
gives your work its individual style and voice? What risks have you
taken? Having a unique perspective isn't just essential for your
photography portfolio; it's a must for your career. Find the thing
that will define your style, (a signature in every photo.)
Have different formats available:
Some clients may prefer to look at a book. Others may
want to see your portfolio on CD. Having more than one format
available will allow you to communicate with clients in their
preferred style. You should also consider building a website where
you can display your work. This will allow you to reach an even wider
audience of prospective clients
 Breaking
the Rules
Once
you have learned how to use the various rules and theories of
composition (rule of thirds, horizon and others) it may seem
ODD to suggest that you should go out of your way to break them.
But
as useful and valid as the rules are, they don't work for every shot
or in every situation.
Breaking
the rules can help you achieve more impact or drama, and offer a
fresh take on an over familiar Subject by presenting it in an
unexpected way.
Although
breaking the rules implies that anything goes, there are some more
accepted ways of composing you shot that don't conform to the normal
composition standards. In that sense. (I'm
a rebel), I love
breaking the rules to create a different perspective and a more
dynamic seen.
After
all. The idea
is to create and impact.
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