Your portfolio is a collection of your best achievements. It is a visual tool that can help portray who you are and what you do in a visually appealing, story-like format.

So, whether you're a budding photographer looking to expand your client base or a project manager seeking funding for your next big idea, a well-presented portfolio can have a big impact — but where do you begin?

How do you select photos? What software options and tools are available to streamline this process so your creativity can shine?

Here's how to make an eye-catching photo collection, plus simple tips for creating a photo portfolio.

How to Create a Captivating Photo Portfolio

Making your photo album stand out in a way that showcases your best works or pieces can be tricky. Knowing what to include can be the biggest obstacle. However, if you think of your portfolio as your "greatest hits," it can make the process simpler.

Are there pieces that have earned you awards or extra attention as an artist or designer? If so, these works should include a quick blurb explaining their significance to your career or journey. If nothing stands out, focus on your most creative or unique work — something that makes you stand out as a trendsetter.

Here are some tips that can be applied to any portfolio, regardless of what you wish to highlight.

Include Variety While Creating Cohesion

If you can, showcase the variety in your collection while creating a cohesive look. Present projects that showcase varying elements and techniques while maintaining a consistent style. Your portfolio is an opportunity to show who you are as a brand, so consider the overall appearance from one page to the next.

For your layout, less is often more. Keep your design simple, using a consistent color scheme. To simplify this step, use a platform such as Mixbook. Appropriate themes might include White Minimalist or Modern Portfolio.

Looking to Get Hired?

Are you using your portfolio to seek job opportunities? If so, don't just include examples of your work — add info about who you are and how that relates to your journey. Include a brief story highlighting your background, achievements, goals, etc. Think of this like a website's "about me" page.

Use high-quality photos to ensure a professional look — especially if you create a photography portfolio. Select your top 10-20 photos and develop an engaging story using these images. This selection will determine the layout of your portfolio.

Additional Considerations

Don't underestimate the importance of the production process. If you print your portfolio, the quality of the cover and paper matters.

After printing, be sure to save and back up your work so that you can keep your portfolio current. Add them to your backup as you complete projects or create new works. If you print your portfolio, you can order new copies annually — or whenever it makes sense based on the portfolio's progression.

What Tools Should I Use for My Photo Collection?

Lean on the available tools and software options for easy ways to organize and present photos. Enhance your photos using photo editing tools like Photoshop. If you're a photographer, this software is likely already in your toolbox. There are also plenty of free apps with easy-to-use interfaces, like Snapseed.

Here are some top recommendations when creating a photo portfolio:

Fotor is a free photo editing tool with an optional paid plan. This editor focuses on portrait photos, offering blur, fix, and patch tools. However, it is a powerful option for all portfolio photos, including product or progress shots.
Mixbook is the easiest way to create photo books, allowing you to customize every step. Print the finished product to create a more immersive experience, and save your work to expand your portfolio as it grows. Browse some of Mixbook's professional photo book designs and learn more about unique features, like custom stickers and free backgrounds.

Mixbook Simplifies the Portfolio Creation Process

Want to quickly and easily create a portfolio or photo book collection without sacrificing quality? Mixbook offers themes and features for making your photo album stand out. Play with layouts, orientations, and arrangements, customize backgrounds, add stickers, and much more.

Get inspired by what other Mixbookers have been up to and select the perfect photo book design for your growing portfolio today!