PORTFOLIO REVIEW(ish) 04 - SAM
A freelance designer based in Bee Hive Lofts in Manchester, Sam Bloomfield, gave me more advice on my portfolio making rather than looking through my stuff.
1. The line between confidence and employable
Sam and I disucssed how to present a portfolio. I asked him “Where do you cross the line of looking like yourself and looking employable?” Portfolios depend on whether you want to show your personality confidently or whether you want to be safe. It’s best to show work that you’re both proud of and believe is showing what you can do.
2. Don’t lose your creativity
Sam talked about how easy it is to fall into doing nothing but standard stuff to make a client happy. A Sam put it, “Clients are mysterious creatures”, as it’s a rare occurrence for a client to pick your brain and want your work. To tackle this, don’t forget to work on your own stuff. Even if it is just a challenge for yourself (A series of posters using only certain colours). As well as distressing your mind, it can also build a stronger portfolio as it shows enthusiasm for design.
3. Hint what you can do
Myself and Sam debated whether to show personal work and client work together. Sam replied that he puts a link in his website that shows all his personal styles and independent work which hasn’t got much context. Again, this can imply you are excited for art and design.