How to create a professional photography portfolio

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your photography journey having an up-to-date and concise photography portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills and experience in your chosen field. Follow these top tips in building your portfolio.

1. Clearly define the purpose of your photography portfolio.

Is it to land clients, showcase your skills for job applications, or to attract potential collaborators? Understanding the goal of your photography portfolio is essential to make a start. You may even want to create multiple portfolios to suit different needs.

2. Quality over quantity.

Choose a selection of your best photography work that aligns with your goals. Aim for diversity to demonstrate a range of skills and styles and don’t show too much of the same project – select the best 2-5 examples per photography project. If you are a beginner photographer you may only have a handful of pictures to show off, this is ok and you will add to your portfolio as you take on more photography projects. It’s much more productive to show a few of your strongest work than lots of average photography.

It is also important to ensure your portfolio flows and tells a story throughout rather than just putting images in any order. Have a look at some examples of great photography portfolios put together from Format here:

https://www.format.com/online-portfolio-website/photography/best

3. How to present your photography portfolio.

The easiest and most accessible way to present your photography portfolio is digitally. There are various platforms that can be used to create a visually stunning portfolio. Our top picks are:

• Adobe Portfolio
• Format
• Portfoliobox
• Zenfolio
• Flickr

You may want to have more control over how your portfolio is curated by creating your own website where your portfolio is the main aspect. Having your own website with your own domain can also help you look more established and professional and help you stand our to competitors. Website builders that are great for beginners are:

• WordPress
• Wix
• Squarespace

You may want to create a printed version of your photography portfolio to wow potential clients face to face. In a primarily digital world, you will stand out with a printed version of your portfolio. The downside is, it will be more expensive and you will have to create a new portfolio each time you update. A printed photography portfolio is a great idea for one off presentations to potential clients who you really want to impress by showing something special in addition to your digital portfolio. Sites we recommend for creating a printed portfolio are:

• Canva
• Lulu
• Blurb

Whether you create your portfolio online via a website, via a digital portfolio site, or in print, pay attention to the portfolio design and layout. Use high-quality images only, and ensure the overall presentation is visually appealing. If it is a digital portfolio or web link, is it optimised for both desktop and mobile. Second opinions are always useful, ask friends for a review and feedback.

3. Include contact information.

No matter what your other aims for creating your photography portfolio, the most important one will be to secure photography bookings. Make it easy for potential clients or collaborators to reach you. Include your professional email, social media links, website and any other relevant contact information.

4. Include client testimonials.

Positive feedback and good references add credibility to your work. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback whenever you have worked with someone, be it a client or a collaboration and add this to your website or as an addition to your portfolio.

5. Regularly update your portfolio.

Your photography portfolio should include your latest and best work. An outdated portfolio might not accurately represent your current skill level. You may also want to tailor your portfolio to suit your current aims and goals.

In conclusion, your photography portfolio is a constantly evolving reflection of your best work. Regular reviews are important, and do not be afraid to be selective! Use high-quality images only, and ensure the overall presentation is visually appealing. If it is a digital portfolio or website, ensure is it optimised for both desktop and mobile. Second opinions are always useful, ask friends for a review and feedback.

Now you are ready with your photography portfolio, you will want to find ways to get it out there and start attracting more clients – click to read our blog post all about ‘marketing basics for photographers’ and ‘the importance of networking as a photographer’.