Photojournalism

PRE-320/JRN-320 – Dr. Anthony Curtis

Packaging Your Portfolio

People judge books by their covers. Just as a book's jacket attracts a consumer to purchase a book, your CD or DVD package should invite employers or reviewers to look at your portfolio.

Instead of sending out discs in little paper jackets with your name scribbled on them with a Sharpie marker, you should create attractive packaging that excites employers or reviewers to see what's on the disc.

After all, you are smart and articulate. You dress up for interviews. Why then hand over a scratched CD in a broken jewel case? You're presenting your best work – the creations you hold dearest to your heart. A well-designed package is a reflection of the quality of work you are showing in your portfolio.

Designing a package isn't a big job. To create a simple case, purchase some empty CD jewel boxes or empty DVD cases at a discount store, office supply store, book store or other retail outlet.

One advantage to a DVD case: it won't break as easily as a CD jewel case.

Use the generic label from inside one of the boxes or cases as a physical template. In computer, make a one-color custom label showing your name, telling what the box or case contains, and displaying a small sample of one of your best photos.

Print a one-color copy of the label, trim it to size, and insert it into the CD jewel box or DVD case. If necessary for fit, tweak your label design and print the improved version.

Next, create a small booklet with a reduced-size sample of more of your photos and your rÈsumÈ. Place the booklet inside the front of the jewel box or case.

This is a simple, clean solution for packaging your portfolio for that professional look.