A Small Guide to a Photographer’s Portfolio Review
Getting feedback from fellow photographers isn’t a requirement, but it’s definitely something to consider—no matter your experience level.
Attending art school was great; I had professors and classmates to critique my work and help guide my craft. But post-college was a different story. My college friends were scattered across the globe, and finding time to catch up and discuss our work was a challenge. I had to seek out other photographers for guidance and mentorship.
Portfolio reviews became a gateway to refining my craft, allowing me to connect with more established photographers and learn from their insights. I joined APA and signed up for a portfolio review, but when I searched for advice on how to prepare, I found little to no guidance. So, here’s what I’ve learned from my own experiences.
Preparing for a Portfolio Review
Who Is Your Reviewer?
Consider who will be looking at your work. Are you presenting to a creative director from a specific brand you want to work with? A photographer whose career path you admire? Or a gallery director from a space where you hope to exhibit?
Tailor your portfolio to your audience. If you're pitching to a brand, showcase work that aligns with their aesthetic and values. If it's a fellow photographer, include images that reflect your abilities. For a gallery director, focus on a cohesive body of work that tells a compelling story.
Understanding your reviewer’s perspective will help you present your work in the most impactful way.
Presentation Matters
Don’t half-ass your presentation—especially for virtual reviews. Start by asking yourself: What do I want to photograph? The work you present should reflect that. Your first image should be the most eye-catching, drawing the viewer in. I typically aim for 15 to 20 images, making sure that they are my strongest pieces. Have a website or an additional set of images ready in case your reviewer asks to see more, but avoid overwhelming them upfront as this could taint the review.
Towards the end of your presentation, consider including a few “out-of-the-box” images—work that shows what else you’re interested in or capable of photographing. At the very end, you can present a thumbnail grid of all your images as a reference.
Have a Backup Plan
Technical issues happen, so always have a backup way to present your work. Bring an extra iPad, laptop, or even high-quality prints. If you opt for prints, consider creating a take-away book and bring white gloves to protect your images as you flip through them.
Bring the Essentials
Pack a notebook and pen for jotting down feedback, and bring water—you’ll be talking a lot.
Navigating the Review
Some reviewers prefer to hear you talk through your work as they view it, while others like to absorb the images first before discussing. Be adaptable and take cues from your reviewer.
Follow Up
At the end of the review, thank them for their time. Leave a business card or, better yet, follow up with a thank-you email within a few days to express your appreciation for their feedback.