18: How to Prepare for a Portfolio Review with bob Soltys
Jan 19, 2017
auto_awesome
Photographer Bob Soltys shares tips and advice on portfolio reviews, including making a good impression, handling rejection, and improving for future reviews. Prepare your portfolio with physical prints and professional presentation. Handle criticism and believe in yourself. Choose arresting images and strong composition for sequencing. Prepare for second chances and support the show.
Preparing for a portfolio review requires presenting oneself professionally and confidently, focusing on the positive aspects of one's work, and having a backup project in case the first one doesn't resonate with the reviewer.
Handling rejection in the portfolio review process involves staying positive, believing in oneself and the work being presented, and utilizing negative feedback as an opportunity to learn, refine, and explore alternative avenues to showcase the work.
Deep dives
Preparing for Portfolio Reviews
When preparing for a portfolio review, it is important to not only gather good pictures and present them properly, but also to prepare oneself. This includes making a good first impression by being professionally presented, properly attired, and confident. It is crucial to focus on the positive aspects of one's work and be concise in describing it. The reviewer's time should be respected, so it is advisable to have a backup project in case the first one doesn't resonate with them. Believing in oneself and staying true to one's own style is essential, as trying to imitate others or fit a certain expectation may result in inconsistency and loss of authenticity.
Dealing with Rejection
Rejection is a common part of the portfolio review process, but it is important to handle it in a positive manner. Believing in oneself and the work being presented is crucial. One should not be discouraged by negative feedback or harsh criticism. Instead, it is an opportunity to learn and grow as a photographer. Rejection should be seen as a chance to refine the work, find a better market fit, or discover alternative avenues to showcase the work and connect with people who appreciate it.
Tips for a Successful Portfolio Review
To successfully navigate a portfolio review, it is important to be prepared and professional. This includes researching the reviewers or institutions beforehand, respecting their boundaries, being punctual, and presenting the work effectively. Bringing a backup project is a good idea, and starting with a strong and arresting image can make a powerful first impression. Additionally, it is valuable to practice the presentation and visualize success. Remembering to believe in oneself, stay true to one's style, and be open to learning and opportunities is key.
The Purpose of Portfolio Reviews
Portfolio reviews serve various purposes beyond just showing work and pursuing gallery shows or publications. They offer opportunities to grow as a photographer, learn from experts, and connect with professionals in the industry. They can provide valuable feedback and guidance, help refine projects, and expose work to new markets or outlets. It is important to approach portfolio reviews with an open mind, an eagerness to learn, and a focus on sharing one's vision and passion.
This week, photographer Bob Soltys is on the show to talk about portfolio reviews, how to prepare for them, how to make a good first impression, how to deal with rejections and how to do better next time. Visit Bob's website: Bob’s website: www.bobsoltys.com
See the show notes at www.valeriejardinphotography.com/podcast
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode