Making a Working Building Design Portfolios: Innovative Concepts for Presenting your Work (Design Field Guide)
By Sara Eisenman
Introduction
- There are many different presentation forms for showcasing your portfolio but they all have some similarities
- In the past, most designers were printers so they displayed their portfolios as specimen books that displayed different typefaces and ornamentation
- The earliest examples of these type samples is from 1526
- Most print shops were very distinctive and had elaborate and extensive type designs
- Designers started operating separately from printers by the early 20th century
- Companies and governments began to hire staff designers or give freelance jobs to highly respected artist and engravers
- By the mid-20th century, colleges were offering graphic design courses rather than students learning from apprenticeships
- There is not a perfect presentation style, but there are many elements that will remain consistent and coordinated
- Self promotion should not take up, or look like it took up, all of your time. Do not make it elaborate or self-indulgent
- The best system to represent yourself is one that showcases your interests, design skills, and is a reflection of your unique creativity
