Creating an online portfolio in today's digital age is not only daunting but really challenging with no guidance. I have received numerous requests to really break down the online portfolio. But first, I just want to start off presenting 5 steps and tips that really helped me navigate the online world!
I also did post a video about this topic on my YouTube channel. If you want to check it out, the video is linked below.
Selecting a Website Platform
Selecting a website platform is really step number 1. There are so many options for creatives to host their portfolio on. I personally host this website with Wix!! Click here to get started: www.wix.com/unravelingarchitecture
"There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all portfolio" - Barry Ritholtz
I have also posted a full PDF version on the website ISSUU before! This is great because a PDF not only functions on every device you use, but it also has a great workflow! I can create a portfolio using Adobe InDesign and quickly export my work as a PDF and upload it to ISSUU! Using Adobe InDesign to create your portfolio really grants more creative freedom to the designer. It also gives the creative the best opportunity to show off some great graphic design skills.
If you are submitting a portfolio for college admission, you will most likely be using a platform known as SlideRoom. SlideRoom, similar to ISSUU, allows creatives to upload a PDF. So, the designer has complete control over his or her portfolio in Adobe InDesign.
Select the Content of your Portfolio
This may be the hardest step for many! But it does not have to be. Here is what I recommend: Look at all of your work you have completed so far in your career. If you are designing this online digital portfolio for admission into graduate schools, I would recommend sorting through any visual presentation materials you made in school. Your final review boards and final images are a great starting spot!
Lay everything out and be very critical of your work. Say yes to your strongest projects that got the most positive feedback. And for the projects that did not perform well in front of a juried review, perhaps just keep them out of this portfolio. Please understand that less is more in this particular instance!
Side note: please include team / partner projects! If you are a student, and can show that you work well in groups, that is great to tell admissions boards! By showing group work, you inform others that you work well with others! Only in a rare instance does an architect work solo on a project. Therefore, collaboration is critical in the field.
"Less is more." - Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe
Organize Your Content
Like I mentioned earlier, simplicity is key. Focus all of your attention on the user experience and how one views your online portfolio. An excellent portfolio is able to show a creative's skillset. So, aim to show your rendering style. Try to include hand drawn images, showing that you can sketch! Attempt to convey a line of thought. Don't hesitate to blend multiple types of media together. Put a render next to a plan. Place a model photograph next to a parti diagram. Make it very exciting and engaging. Mixing several types of these components together makes the portfolio more visually appealing.
Regarding ordering your content, I do not recommend putting content in chronological order. Sure, you may defend doing this on the basis that it shows your progression in skills. However, instead, I would recommend going back to previous projects, sprucing the drawings up to your current skill level, and polishing all images in the portfolio.
I also recommend on an online portfolio to include keywords in the captions and descriptions. With online portfolios, search engines cannot read images well to convey their deeper meaning behind them. And, by including keywords, it makes your portfolio more searchable and discoverable by many!
Fonts are also very important with a portfolio. But, please promise me you will not use Comic Sans. I can make another post on fonts if you are interested!
Add Your Personality and Style!
The intent of a portfolio is to convey your view on a project prompt and how you see a solution. As a creative, it is your responsibility to also convey your personal, unique style within your portfolio. What do you bring to the table? How do you approach a problem? Why are you a great addition to a university you are applying to? Why should a prospective client select you to do their design work needed over other prospective architects?
Now is a critical time to show your passion and creativity within your portfolio!
Visually speaking, I recommend going for the "Less is more" approach. Simplicity is still key when it comes to making a portfolio. White space is essential, as it gives the eyes a rest!
Update the Portfolio Frequently
Because your portfolio is hosted online, the internet is always changing and getting updated. Refreshing your portfolio is a must! As you progress through school, I recommend updating your portfolio at the conclusion of each quarter and/or semester. If you are a number-oriented person: aim to update your online portfolio every 6 months!
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