How to Curate a Professional Photography Portfolio 

A career in photography is a solid path to choose. You get to be creative, tell stories through your images, and work with all kinds of people. But, as with any career, there is a right way to go about it – and that includes having a professional portfolio. Your portfolio is essentially your CV – it’s a collection of your work that proves to potential clients that you’re the right photographer for the job. And if you’re just starting, there are certain steps you can take to put your best foot forward. Here’s a guide to curating a professional photography portfolio as a beginner.

Only Include Your Best Work

Your portfolio is the first impression potential clients get of you. So while that picture of your grandmother playing bingo with friends at a senior living facility may be your favorite, if the lighting is all wrong, the image is blurry, the subject is out of focus, etc don’t include it. 

Quality trumps quantity every time so cull through your images and select only your very best work. What if you’re not sure what your best work is? Get a second (or third) opinion from other photographers, friends, or family members. 

Consider Specialising

There are many different facets of photography; event photography, food photography, product photography, portraits, landscape… the list goes on. 

And while you may be a dab hand at all of them, it’s often best to focus your portfolio on one particular genre. This allows you to focus and better showcase your expertise.

For example,  let’s say you’re applying for a gig as an event photographer. You’re more likely to get the job if your portfolio only includes images from events that you’ve shot – weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, etc rather than a mix of different contrasting images. 

Tell a Story With the Arrangement  of Your Images 

The arrangement of your images is important. You want to tell a story with your portfolio, as it’ll make it stand out. 

For example, if you’re a wedding photographer, try to arrange your images chronologically – starting with the preparations, then the ceremony, followed by the reception. Or, if you’re a food photographer, arrange your images by dish – starters, main course, dessert, etc. 

This makes it easier for potential clients to see a complete story and get an idea of what it’s like to work with you. 

Create an Online Portfolio 

An online portfolio is a must in today’s digital age. Having an online portfolio in addition to a physical one significantly increases your chances of reaching a wider audience and getting more work. 

There are many different platforms on which you can create an online portfolio. WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix are all popular options. Just make sure to choose a platform that’s easy for you to use, within your budget, and with features that will allow you to showcase your work in the best light possible. 

These are just a few tips to help you curate a professional photography portfolio. Remember, your portfolio is your first impression, so make it count.

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