PORTFOLIO DESIGN PROCESS
When working on your portfolio, you’ll be presented with many decisions at once and this process can be a bit overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Follow these simple steps to organize your ideas and create beautiful and authentic layouts that will make your portfolio stand out from the crowd!
First, let’s get organized.
STEP 01:
The first step is to identify the images you’d like to include in your portfolio and separate them by project. It’s always nice to include sketches, 2D drawings, photos of physical models, final renderings, etc. - images that will help you explain the thought process behind your projects.
Example of drawings from a project, organized by category: Renderings, plans, elevations, diagrams and sections (by ©StefaniFachini).
STEP 02:
Organize the images you have selected for each project by categories such as diagrams, renderings, sketches, etc. This will help you design your page layout.
It is important to give each image the space it deserves. Diagrams and sketches that contain less information can be smaller on the page, versus detailed plans or renderings, containing a lot of information, which can occupy more space in your layout.
This step is also important for you to decide if you want a ‘vertical portfolio’ or ‘horizontal portfolio’.
Example of a portfolio project page (by ©StefaniFachini).
STEP 03:
Vertical vs Horizontal layouts
Vertical portfolios are more common because when you combine two vertical pages, you create a horizontal layout that is great for print and digital display. This is especially nice for a printed portfolio because it functions more like a book and is easier to flip between pages. However, your portfolio is all about showcasing your personality so if you prefer a horizontal layout, go for it!
Example of Vertical vs Horizontal layouts (by ©StefaniFachini).
STEP 04:
Write a short description for each project and all the information you’d like to include, such as team members, year designed, project typology, etc. Here you can also write small descriptions for your images to be included throughout the layout.
STEP 05:
Design the overall graphics for your portfolio. A portfolio is nothing more than a book that includes the work that best represents you as a designer. Like any book, it needs to have an overall design for all pages, regardless of the project. This includes project pages, headers and footers, consistent fonts, line weights, color palettes, etc. This will give potential employers a little taste of your personality and graphic organization.
Pro tip: Create a template that you can use as a guide for the entire portfolio.
STEP 06:
Portfolio structure: Let’s first layout the portfolio before you import the images for each project. Here is when you design the portfolio cover, table of contents, and resume page if you choose to include it. This should follow the graphics you’ve chosen to use on step 05.
Example of Portfolio graphics template (by ©StefaniFachini).
STEP 07:
Import images!! Here is when you get to have fun with each project and choose the best layout for your images. Don’t forget to use the same font you’ve chosen for your overall portfolio, and include your best work!
PRO tip: There is nothing wrong with redoing old images. This will keep your portfolio fresh and showcase your latest skills!
STEP 08:
Proofread again and export!
After you’re done with all your layouts and you’ve brought in all of your images, you’re ready to export!
When exporting your portfolio, make sure to proofread one more time and export! Save as PDF and double check that it doesn’t exceed the total megabyte (MB) limit to send to potential employers by email (usually 25MB) or check what the job application is asking for (usually between 5-10MB total).
And you’re done!! Best of luck and remember, this is a chance to show people how amazing you are so be confident and practice explaining your projects out loud before going to your job interview!
For inspirations about portfolio layouts, don’t miss our post LEARNING FROM MAGAZINES.
Any questions or suggestions? Leave a comment!
Article by Stefani Fachini