Portfolio guide
What should I include in a beginner portfolio for freelance graphic design?
Goal: List 5 key components: bio, sample projects, testimonials, tools used, and contact form—with layout tips.
Great goal! A strong beginner portfolio helps you land freelance gigs by showing your potential, even if you’re just starting out. Here’s a breakdown of the 5 key components to include, plus layout tips for each:
1. Bio (About Me Section)
What to Include:
- A short, friendly intro (1–2 paragraphs)
- Your design interests or specialties (e.g., branding, social media, posters)
- Why you love graphic design or how you got started
Layout Tip:
Use a photo of yourself and clean, readable fonts. Place this near the top of the page—it’s your “digital handshake.”
2. Sample Projects
What to Include:
- 3–6 examples of your work (can be personal, school, or volunteer projects)
- Each project should have a short description (the brief, your role, tools used, and outcome)
Layout Tip:
Use a grid or carousel layout with large thumbnails. Make it visually scrollable—this is your main showcase!
3. Testimonials (Social Proof)
What to Include:
- Quotes from classmates, clients, or teachers praising your work ethic, creativity, or results
- Even one or two testimonials can build trust
Layout Tip:
Use stylized quote blocks or small cards. Place them near the sample projects or at the bottom of the homepage.
4. Tools & Skills Used
What to Include:
- Design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva, Figma)
- Any special techniques (e.g., vector art, typography, photo editing)
Layout Tip:
Icons or badges for tools are visually effective. Consider a skills meter or simple list to keep it digestible.
5. Contact Form
What to Include:
- Name, email, message box
- Optional: links to your social media or LinkedIn
Layout Tip:
Keep it short and easy to use—ideally in the footer or a dedicated “Contact” page. Use a friendly CTA like “Let’s Work Together!”
Would you like help creating a template or mockup for your portfolio? I can also recommend a free platform like Behance, Notion, or Wix to start building it.
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