A graphic design portfolio is an essential tool for any professional graphic designer. It showcases their work, skills and experience, and helps potential clients or employers get a better understanding of what they can do. However, there is no hard and fast rule on how many items should be included in a portfolio, as it largely depends on the individual’s level of experience and the nature of the job they are applying for.
For Beginners – For people just starting out in the industry, it is best to include a smaller number of pieces in their portfolio. This will give them an opportunity to focus on quality over quantity and ensure that each piece shows off their best work.
They should also aim to include a wide range of projects that show off different skills or techniques that they have mastered. Additionally, it’s important for beginners to include some personal projects, as this will demonstrate their creative abilities and show potential employers that they are passionate about graphic design.
For Experienced Designers – For those with more experience in the field, portfolios should be more comprehensive and include more pieces. This will give potential employers an opportunity to get a better understanding of their range of skills and capabilities.
Experienced designers should aim to showcase a variety of projects, including both client-based work as well as personal projects that demonstrate their creative flair. Additionally, experienced designers should also consider including some research or case studies demonstrating how they have used innovative approaches to solve problems or create effective designs for their clients.
Conclusion
The number of items included in a graphic design portfolio largely depends on the individual’s level of experience and the nature of the job they are applying for. Beginners should focus on quality over quantity by including a smaller number of pieces that show off different skills or techniques they have mastered while experienced designers should aim to create comprehensive portfolios with a variety of projects and research that demonstrate their range of capabilities.