How to Create a Stunning Student Photography Portfolio

Unsure if your portfolio is needed for your next interview, or if you're simply compiling your student work at the end of a course? Here are some key points to consider:

The Quality of Your Photography

Obviously, Quality Matters: You need a selection of high-quality photographs that showcase a variety of skills. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or an advanced photographer, take a moment to assess your skills and align them with your goals. If you are new to photography, it is essential to invest in learning the basics and mastering them before advancing.

Choosing the Right Subject

A Good Subject Doesn't Always Equal a Good Photo: Being objective is crucial. Avoid being too emotionally involved with your photos. While it might be incredible that you captured an animal yawning with its mouth open, ask yourself: Is it a good photo? What is your exposure like? How is your composition? Don’t get too caught up in the awesomeness of your captures. Consider whether it is already at the top of your portfolio.

Telling Your Story

Try to Tell a Story: I photograph from the heart and like to build my edits in this way too. Think of your flow of images as a story, even if they weren’t taken at the same time or in the same place! It is about creating an edit that flows seamlessly. Take, for example, the following photos:

This first photo is made up of 4 excellent photos that each show off different skills. The compositions tick all the boxes, and the exposures are good. However, together they look a bit messy! Instead, find photos that showcase skills of equal value but fit together harmoniously as a series, even if they aren’t taken in the same place or at the same time. Things that can link your images could be color tone, subject, season, or something else.

The 4 photos above were taken in different locations during the UK:

Cornwall in 2013 Devon in 2009 Back garden in 2019 Bushy Park in 2011

When put together, they all have a similar tone. I linked two with similar compositions and depth of field, and they all have a ‘country walk’ vibe.

By doing this, you are adding a story to your style, and your portfolio viewer can easily immerse themselves in your flow of images without feeling jilted between pages. This helps you define your style, too. I wish someone had told me this at University!

Picking Your Portfolio Style

Pick Your Portfolio Style: There are so many ways to present your portfolio. It could be in a book, a box of prints, a website, or something totally unconventional! Consider your style and what medium would best suit your images. This will help you stand out to your target audience.

Additional Resources and Support

I hope this advice helps you start curating an amazing student profile. If you are new to photography and want further assistance, visit my photo school link in the bio for some free resources and beta access to a beginner photography course. This course covers all the basic principles of photography and includes project ideas to help you build your portfolio for interview or employment.

Best of luck!