Presentation counts for a lot in this business, so your portfolio needs to make a brilliant first impression.It is a representation of you as an artist.
The book needs to be neat, well organized, and an accurate reflection of your aesthetic and personal style.Portfolio books themselves are available in a variety of sizes.
The two most popular sizes are 9" x 12" and 11" x 14". Art supply stores are a good source for portfolio books. Look for one that has plastic or acetate
pages into which you can slip your photos. You will also want at least one pocket (on the inside back cover) to hold a résumé, promotional cards, and
business cards. Include several of each so that whoever is looking at your book can take and keep a copy of your résumé and card. Some agencies
prefer receiving portfolios on a CD rather than in book form, so always have several electronic copies available.Keep one portfolio with all of your original photographs in it.
High-quality color copies are used in books intended for mailing. Tear sheets should be originals, so if a magazine prints your work, buy lots of copies
of it. Have at least two books ready to be sent out at any time. Consider having four or even five copies. It is also not a bad idea to carry a reduced
version with you in case an opportunity to show it presents itself.Promotional Cards
A promotional card is an essential addition to your promotional arsenal. These cards are postcard-size and have one to three photos of your work, as well as your
name and contact information. Also referred to as a comp card, a promo, or a leave-behind, these cards show your artistry and style. Both print and electronic
versions of the cards are necessary for self-promotion. Promo cards have four-color photographs on one side, and your contact information in black and white on
the other. As photographers own the rights to their photographs, you must obtain their written permission to use any photos and credit the photographers on the
card. You can send out the cards in the mail and have several in your portfolio for the editor, photographer, or agent to keep on file. That way, art directors and
fashion editors always have a sample of your work on hand. Also keep the card as a PDF file on your computer, or better yet on a flash drive. This will allow you
to e-mail a copy almost instantly, wherever you are, to potential employers. Carry several with you in your bag for those unexpected opportunities.
Web Sites
New artists are using the Web to promote their services. Make sure you hire a reputable Web designer to help you design and launch your site, or lease space on an
existing site that will help you build your own. Some makeup agencies offer such space to their artists. Remember that the quality and style of the site, not just the
content, directly reflect who you are as an artist.
On the Web site, include your promotional card and a PDF version of your résumé. Include current portfolio content. Determine how large you want the site
to be and how often you will want to update it. Consider how you want people to contact you and whether you want to include links on the site. Build a site that is
globally accessible.