How to Build a Graphic Design Portfolio
Graphic design is one of the most popular fields for artistically-minded individuals to explore as it allows for creative expression while still drawing a paycheck. If you are considering graphic design as a field, the most important thing to have is a portfolio.
First: Identify your strong points
In a market that is crowded with potential workers, you need to draw attention to the best you have to offer. As you learn your skills, you can discover that you enjoy some aspects of graphic design more than others. Some designers like to make logos, others prefer to lay out type in brochures or magazines. Lead your portfolio with the work you find most creatively satisfying, as it is also in all likelihood your strongest.
Second: Prioritize larger clients
As you start your career, many of your clients are probably not in major businesses. Most designers start with local businesses and work their way up. However, as you do larger jobs, make sure to give them priority placement in your portfolio. This reassures prospective employers that you can give them the service they deserve.
Third: Host it online
The days of paper portfolios are long over. Designers show their work online, and a dedicated website for your body of work pays dividends. There are a number of inexpensive template hosting solutions that work very well for this purpose, or you can build one yourself from scratch.
Fourth: Make it easy to contact you
Include contact information on every page of your online portfolio, and on every piece of promotional material you send out. You never know what piece might strike an art director's fancy, so make sure they have the tools to get in touch with you.