In order to do some more research into how best to present my portfolio, I chanced upon these top tips from Todd Owyoung. Todd Owyoung is an internationally published music photographer specializing in concert photography and band portraits.
Some of the information is not totally relevant to where I am in the stage of the programme, as I have now decided on the content of my portfolio; but tips like 4 and 5 (Start Strong - Finish Strong) are especially relevant as to where to insert the images in the running order.
All in all, it is useful to see how others think when creating their work. Anyhow, enough of me - let's see what Todd has to say.
Creating a portfolio of one’s own work can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential part of presenting oneself as a photographer. A top notch book is one of the best ways communicate one’s ability and vision, especially when it can be viewed online and around the world.
Here are eight ways to make yourself look good.
- Keep it short and sweet
- Show quality
- Show range
- Start strong
- End strong
- Put the rest in the middle
- Don’t put it to popular vote
- Keep it fresh
1) Keep It Short & Sweet
With a portfolio, quantity counts for nothing. If the viewer wants to see more, they’ll look for it. And if they can’t find it, they’ll ask. Both of these consequences are good. I usually aim to include 12-20 images in a photography portfolio.
2) Show Quality
Following up to the first tip, only the best images should go into the portfolio. Consistency and distinction in your images should be a key takeaway. Showing anything but the best is often a waste of time; when you have someone’s attention, make every image count.
3) Show Range
And aside from quality, each image should speak to some aspect of your vision and ability. In choosing images, ask, “What does this image say about me as a photographer?” If multiple images are competing for the same specific message, consider paring down for the sake of efficiency. Expressing range, however, should not be confused with a lack of focus. Every image should work toward a singular goal of expressing your eye and capabilities as a photographer.
4) Start Strong
Start out with a bang. You want to put your second to best shot up front to catch the viewer’s attention. Why the second best? Keep reading.
5) End Strong
With your last image, you want to reinforce everything that has come before and end with the impression of excellence. This position is where your standout image goes, since it’s the last image in the set that the viewer will see.With the last piece, your goal is to leave a mark. The viewer made it to the end, so go for the knock out punch.
6) Put The Rest In The Middle
There is no filler in a portfolio, but everything that isn’t your absolute best should go in the middle. After the lead off image, gradually decrease in image impact until you get to the middle of the series, and then ramp back up for the strong finish.In other words, the highest impact images should be book ends to the images that establish the tone of your work.
7) Don’t Put It To Popular Vote
Bless your friends and family, but portfolios should not be decided by committee; what is popular is not always what makes your eye or execution unique.If need be, I’d suggest paring down a selection of your best images as well as you can and then enlist the keen eye of someone whose taste you trust to make the final selection.
8) Keep It Fresh
Just like seafood, it’s better fresh. Once you’ve established your book, keep it as up to date as possible. Aside from assembling it in the first place, this task is one of the biggest challenges of a great portfolio. As you develop as a photographer and add different elements to your style (or polish it), don’t neglect to reflect that growth in the portfolio.
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