Where to get templates for a portfolio
Published: 13.08.2021
Portfolio is the main working tool of a photographer. The response of clients, success, and earnings depend on how professionally the works are presented. It may seem that creating a portfolio is easier for a photographer than for others, as there is no need to search for images and order photo shoots, just upload ready-made works. However, at the same time, the requirements for a photographer's portfolio are higher, as it is necessary to choose the right design and provide images of the best quality. Let's consider where to find templates for a photographer's portfolio and what needs to be taken into account when creating it.
What are the types of portfolio templates and where to download them?
A photographer's portfolio can be in the form of a printed album or book and digital. Ideally, a photographer should have both types of portfolios. The printed portfolio allows for showcasing their skills in person, while the digital one can be sent to clients in different cities and countries. Order a printed portfolio at Mapi7.
Modern equipment accurately reproduces the full range of colors in photographs. Photo books look solid, attractive, and impress even the most demanding clients. You can create a portfolio design using templates and a convenient editor. The website offers many templates for creating albums and photo books, allowing you to make an original presentation of a photographer's work. Here you will find design options for family, wedding, children's, and school photos. Layouts for landscape photo books, travel, Love Story, and so on are also available.
When choosing the design of a printed portfolio, consider the following parameters:
- Photo book formats. Mapi7 offers 3 photo book formats: horizontal, square, and vertical. The first two are more suitable for panoramic photos, while the last option can accommodate more photographs.
- Cover material. The standard cover is made of thick paper with digital printing and lamination. It is also possible to order more expensive options made of leather and faux leather.
- Printing method. For a portfolio, a photographer can order the printing of a photo book using either a lithographic or photomechanical method.
Type of photobook. For a small portfolio, the "Classic" photobook is suitable. It contains photos with a thick cardboard layer between the pages. If you need to place a large number of photos, it is better to choose the "Prestige" photobook. It is printed on thick sheets, but does not have a cardboard layer, which allows you to fit more works.
Try out several themes and templates for your portfolio. Your taste and the tastes of your clients may not necessarily align. Ask acquaintances which design option they prefer. Your portfolio is your business card, so approach its creation and the selection of the right template responsibly.
"What should be considered in order to create a high-quality portfolio"
A photographer's portfolio should include examples of their work and provide potential clients with comprehensive information. Even if your portfolio features very attractive photos, if the client cannot find answers to their questions, there is a high likelihood that they will not call back. Therefore, the portfolio should include contact information, terms, location, types of photography, and additional services offered by the photographer. This may include styling assistance, costume rental, hair and makeup services, studio rental, and more. List all the services you can provide. Although the price for a photoshoot is usually determined on an individual basis, clients still want to know at least an approximate amount they will need for creating the photos. You can mention a starting price from which you are willing to conduct a photoshoot.
When creating a portfolio, consider the following recommendations:
- Do not overload your portfolio with a large number of photos. People will get tired of looking at them if there are too many images. Choose fewer works, but of higher quality. If you want to showcase your versatility, divide the photos into sections and structure them. This way, those interested in wedding photography will not waste time looking at landscapes, and vice versa.
- The photos in the portfolio should be of a large size, potential clients should be able to examine all the details. Make sure that all the images look presentable.
- Use diverse and most interesting works. Show the dynamics of the photo creation process. It can be photos before and after editing or photos using different types of lighting. Demonstrate those works where your skills are best showcased.
- Add descriptions to the photos. It is not always clear what the author wants to convey in their work, what idea to convey to the audience. Come up with captions for the photos, explain your vision or describe the story behind the image. Well-chosen words will help present the photos correctly.
- Regularly update your portfolio, add new and most successful photos. If updates constantly appear in the portfolio, it indicates growth and professional development of the photographer.
Take photos with professional equipment. Even if you have successful shots taken with a smartphone, it's better to showcase them on social media rather than in your portfolio. Use multiple lenses and take photos with different settings to give clients an idea of the capabilities of your equipment. You can also specify which camera was used to take each photo.
From the great photos that you will definitely get, create a Light album. You don't need to print the photos separately. We will print your photos directly on the pages of the Light album. Upload images to the free editor Mapi7 and create a thematic Light album. You can upload photos from your phone.
No matter how you create your portfolio and experiment with design templates, remember that you can't please everyone. You are not obligated to be liked by everyone, and there will always be critics. Try not to react negatively to bad reviews and comments. Listen to the opinions of those around you, as criticism helps to correct mistakes and grow. Learn, experiment, revise your portfolio, and improve it. Eventually, clients will surely find you and appreciate your work.
