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Olivia Chenier

Stand Out and Shine: Must haves for your portfolio

Updated: Jul 22

A canvas with a light illustration of two life studies. On top of the canvas it reads "I made this do you love it???" with gold star stickers surr

Creating a standout graphic design portfolio is about more than just compiling your work—it's about showcasing your versatility, quality, and unique style. Whether you specialize in one area or have a diverse skill set, your portfolio should highlight your best work and demonstrate your adaptability. Emphasize your personal brand, include case studies, and don't shy away from sharing personal projects that reveal your creative passions. I have compiled some insight for these tips, keep reading!


  1. Diverse Range of Work (but you don't have to be a "generalist either) Showcase a variety of projects that highlight your versatility. This doesn't mean you have to be a "graphic generalist". You can specialize in one field of design, but just make sure you include high quality examples of your versatility in style! What clients and employers like to see is how mutable your work can be with your bright mind and edge of creativity. But if you are a generalist, include different types of design work such as branding, web design, illustrations, print materials, and any other relevant categories. This diversity demonstrates your ability to adapt to various design needs and challenges.


  2. Quality Over Quantity It’s better to have a few exceptional pieces than a multitude of mediocre ones. Curate your portfolio that represents your best work, work that represents what you love and are best at. Each piece should showcase your skills and creativity, leaving a strong impression.

  3. Personal Branding Depending on what kind of designer you are, this is either significantly neglected, or your brain child. Your portfolio should reflect your personal brand. It doesn't have to be exactly the same branding as your own (especially if you do logos and branding) BUT taking me as an example, my work is always fun, and energetic. This is seen in almost everything I do. So feel free to include your logo, color scheme, typography, and overall aesthetic. Maybe even make a branding booklet, that is a way to show you understand what to give a client as a deliverable. Consistency in your branding helps to create a cohesive and professional look that makes you memorable. Let your personality shine!

  4. Detailed Case Studies This is something I need to work on, I am always nervous to post any work in progress photos, especially the rough Idea sketches on my notepad. But those are invaluable to clients. For each project, provide context and details. Include the project brief, your role, the design process, and the final outcome. Show before-and-after images, sketches, and other elements that illustrate your creative process and problem-solving skills. Case studies give insight into how you think and work; you are essentially giving a potential employer insight on how you work, and where your bright ideas come to life.

  5. Personal Projects & Passion Work Include personal projects and passion work to show your interests and what drives you creatively. This will prove well and enable you to do what you love in the future. You never know, maybe you're a graphic designer but you create more illustrations (because you love it!!!) someone will adore them and want you on the team. Your passion work could become YOUR WORK! These projects often highlight your unique style and can differentiate you from other designers. They also demonstrate your dedication and enthusiasm for design outside of professional assignments. Get yourself that dream job!

  6. Consistency (in your timing) Your portfolio is not a static document—it should evolve as you do. Regularly update your portfolio with new projects and remove outdated work. Keeping your portfolio fresh and current demonstrates that you are actively working and continuously improving. It can be so hard, especially if you spend all day already doing work in your field. I know I have had about 9 month hiatus's from personal work before. But if you ever find yourself in a rut, learn a new skill, a new tool, or even go back into yourself about what makes you feel purposed. such as activism, teaching, higher power, whatever brings you a sense of impact in this world. You will get back to it, with work you are excited about and proud for creating!


Creating a standout graphic design portfolio involves showcasing a diverse range of work that highlights your versatility. Focus on quality over quantity by curating your best pieces that reflect your skills and passion. Personal branding is crucial, so let your unique style and personality shine through your portfolio. Include detailed case studies to provide context and insight into your creative process, and don't forget to feature personal projects and passion work to demonstrate your enthusiasm and unique style. Lastly, keep your portfolio updated regularly to show continuous improvement and dedication to your craft.


And to anyone reading this who would like any critique, I love to help out fellow designers! Please reach out to my email!

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