You could go around telling people how awesome you are, but usually they want to see it. So a miraculous invention was made. The portfolio!

I don’t know what the magic number of pieces in your portfolio is, but it should be your best work. Don’t judge your portfolio on the best work in it, but the worst. Remember to gear your portfolio towards the type of work you want to get. If you want to do children’s portraits, then there should probably be some children’s portraits in your portfolio. I’ve had people hire me to draw a cow, just because I had a cow illustration in my portfolio. Art directors and clients don’t like surprises. They want to see what they’re getting before they order it.

You should have a portable copy of your portfolio that you can take to interviews and meetings, but it is also essential to have a web page. If you don’t know how to build a web page, then you may want to hire someone. Remember, you are running a business, so make it professional looking.

If you are going to meet with clients frequently, then it is also a good idea to have something to leave behind with clients. No, I’m not talking about a locke of your hair or some skin flakes. I’m talking about a business card or promotional postcard.

This post was written on IllustrationInfo.com Content copyright 2007 Cory Thoman.