Your design portfolio is your creative calling card: craft it cleverly and it could catapult your career to the next level. But what should you include? What should you leave out? And how can you ensure more of the right people see your work?
This special issue from the makers of Computer Arts explains how to transform a quick browse of your design portfolio into your dream job or a paying commission.
Whether you’re looking to land new work, climb the career ladder or raise your professional standing, The Portfolio Handbook brings you everything you need to know to assemble the perfect design portfolio. And it's on sale now.
You’ll find the print version of The Portfolio Handbook here, and the digital edition on Apple Newsstand (UK edition or US edition).
Scroll down for a glimpse of what's inside...
Inside The Portfolio Handbook...
1. Golden rules
Chapter one delivers portfolio strategy – the golden rules you need to know to compile the perfect design portfolio every time, whether your folio is digital or physical.
2. Effective digital folios
Work your digital portfolio harder and stand out online with the expert advice found in chapter two, including: a UX masterclass, how to make an impression on the move and exclusive insight from Behance’s head community manager Sarah Rapp, who reveals how to make a splash on the portfolio platform.
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3. Impress in print
Computer Arts' indispensable guide to producing your print portfolio, whatever your budget; and ilovedust’s Johnny Winslade divulges what the boutique studio looks for in print portfolios.
4. Craft a killer showreel
Professional advice for crafting a killer showreel, with top tips from Framestore’s Anna Swift for how to impress your dream studio.
5. Student advice
Stand out from the ocean of other graduates with a smashing first portfolio – this chapter brings you everything you need to know to transform all those hours of study into employment.
6. Get your work seen
From increasing your visibility online to making sure your design portfolio is seen by the right people and receives the attention it deserves, chapter six is packed full of pro advice for promoting your work.
7. Present your portfolio
How to pull off the perfect presentation: nail every interview with the pro tips and tricks found inside chapter sven. Plus: Pentagram's Angus Hylan reveals how to grab his attention – in a good way – during an interview.
8. Essential resources
All the books and online resources you need to ensure your design portfolio stands out from the rest, and a handy list of recruitment websites to keep an eye on.
Other mags in our Computer Arts Presents series...
The Design Studio Handbook delivers all the information, advice and support you need to ensure studio success.
Don't miss The Self-Promo Handbook: your definitive guide to standing out from the crowd ad winning more work – covering everything from harnessing the power of word of mouth to developing a digital following, and much more.
If you’re thinking about going freelance – or are a seasoned freelance pro looking to crank your career up a notch – pick up a copy of The Freelance Handbook: 116 pages of practical tips and essential advice for being your own boss, from setting your rates and managing your time to getting noticed, winning work and more.
And if you're a design or illustration student, check out The Design Student Handbook – your definitive guide to breaking into the creative industry.
