Photography portfolio

 Everyone was there once. Fruitful inspiration. Plenty of photos, but no idea on how to create a portfolio.

And if you’re just like all the other photographers, you put off this moment for as long as you could. But with no portfolio to present your work, there are no clients interested in hiring you. For a passionate photographer, the thought of creating a professional portfolio is overwhelming. Where do you start? What photos are worthy? What theme to pick?

When your current marketing strategy doesn’t deliver the expected results, building a portfolio is vital because it helps the public see the value of your work. Yes, expect the process to be intensive, but having  a well-put-together portfolio is rewarding.

Let’s dive in together. With a little bit of help, you can make it work.

It all starts online

These days people are connected to their mobile devices, and if you’re hoping to attract clients, you can do it only if you have a robust online presence. And while many artists prefer Instagram and Pinterest to share their creations, not everyone loves social media. When looking for photographs, people use search engines to check for reviews, feedback, rates, and (you guessed it) portfolios. It makes a difference to have a dedicated website to post your work and connect with your public. It’s simple to create a sharp-looking online portfolio with a website like PhotoShelter, Format, Pixpa, or Wix.
In the digital world, prints still rule (at least in photography)

The idea of printing your photos and carrying them around may not sound too thrilling, especially if you are an eco-activist. Why should you print pictures when all transactions are made online? Well, it doesn’t hurt to have a hardcopy of your portfolio when you meet a client in person. They want to inspect the photos in details and see them in all their glory printed on high-quality paper easily convinces them you’re the right choice.

A hardcover portfolio with a decorative cover and superior paper would impress even the pickiest client. Also, if you want to work with magazine editors, it’s best to show your printed work, to help them envision how the photos appear when they publish them.

Make sure your portfolio passes the “so-what” test

So what? Why should I hire you?

This is the question your clients ask themselves when they come across your work. You’re working in a saturated domain, and people have plenty of options from which to choose. So, when someone comes across your portfolio (printed or online), it has to solve one of their burning problems and meet their requirements.

Don’t be shy. Take a look at your competitors, and you’ll probably notice their portfolios present them. The photos they picked showcase their quality services, skills, and passion. Your goal is to convince people to choose you, and buy what you’re selling.

Prospective clients don’t care if you’re a great artist. They want to know what you can do for them. When picking photos for your portfolio, select the ones that show clients what you offer them. Don’t just tell them you take wedding pictures. Show them the best wedding shots you took until now.