Portfolio picture sizes

[Rizzella Bella]

I want to make a portfolio of my work for people to look at.
What is the "correct" size for portfolio pictures?

I was going to do a simple 4x6 portfolio but my husband suggested at least a 5x7 portfolio.
Also, how many pictures do I need? 5? 15?

Thanks!

[srwatters]

I'm planning on 8x12 (9x13 book) for a 'standard' portfolio, but even larger for my marquis images as I gather them. My current book has 10 images, but I am going to expand that to 16 with the images I made at the workshop :)
Here are some tips I picked up from Rolando Gomez last weekend at his workshop:
There are standard sizes with most model portfolios at 8x12 images in a slightly larger book. All should be printed borderless then mouted on the paper separator using it for a border if necessary. Just like a book, all people photographs should have the model either looking at the reader, or into the spine of the book. Take care that the flow of the images directs the reader into the book and not out to the edge of the page. Your first, middle and last images should convey the most 'power' or be your 'best' work. Don't be cheap. Buy a nice leather book with internal screws to hold the book together, not the ring binder style. An imbossed monogram with your or your business' name completes the package. His biggest point is that this is your work and calling card. Present your best work in the best way possible to be successful.

[Rizzella Bella]

Thanks for the tips!
Now...........where can I get a nice book? :?

[srwatters]

This was a topic on Garage Glamour last week. I have no experience with these companies.

http://www.houseofportfolios.com/
http://www.model-shop.com/
http://www.models-mart.com/Portfolios.html

[Collins]

Doesn't the aspect ration of your portfolio images depend on the type of photography you do?

For glamour and the like 8x12 may be a standard size, but what about other specialties? Landscape, photojournalism, editorial, commercial?

The reason I ask is that I've heard conflicting things...I suppose it depends on what aspect ratio(s) is/are prevalent in the field you choose.

For example, I've heard that many commercial photographers shooting 6x6 (2¼) medium format present their portfolios with 7x7" images on 8x10 paper.

Good topic, I'm interested in this myself...

[brad]

Not that I'm any kind of expert, but I'm currently displaying my best portraits as 8x10s in a nice photo album.. one page per picture.

[Rizzella Bella]

Scott,
Thanks for the info. I took a quick look at those sites and it looks like there are a lot to choose from.

Brad,
How many pictures do you have in your portfolio?

[viet_nguyen]

Shelley - I went through the process about a month ago - 8x10 and 11x14 are common though some architecture photographers have larger book. it also depends on the target viewers. If you're into commercial work where you have to mail your book to magazines, art directors, etc 11x14 or smaller portfolios would be easier to ship.
Recommended number of images range something between 10-25. There are other image layout options in addition to the usual one-image-per-page.

I personally use 11x14 portfolio from Lost Luggage (http://www.lost-luggage.com/) They're based in Seattle,WA - order usually takes 5-7 days

I've seen porfolios of pro fashion photographers in NYC - they use the generic black leather kind (see Scott post for links).

a good book on this subject is "Portfolios that Sell" by Selina Oppenheim. though written for commercial photographers I find it very useful.

good luck

[triangle]

Hey Shelly, I am in your area! I suggest using an 8x10, it allows your viewers to see the full richness of your work. Also, it may make you a sale for larger prints. Tonight my wife was showing my book and sold an 8x10 right out of my portfolio.