Need help making a first time portfolio

[Adam G]

Finally have enough to start putting together a portfolio. Been trying to investigate online-but seems really hazy.
I will have about 15 to 20 photos max
all portrait format
would like to go 8 x 10
the real question is - do I go easy way out and use the non glare sheet protectors I see sold with the ports?
-Or_
(what I would like to do... )mount them somehow on card stock and make it look a little more pro. if i did that I would have to get smaller prints or cut them down...dont like that idea much though...

The problem is I cant see anyone's port to see how it is put together. I do not want to try to re-invent the wheel-or do something that "nobody does that in this industry" type of mistake. Any ideas, help, links etc? Thanks in advance.

[HotHolly]

I wouldnt use the sleeves. The plastic over the image makes it look and feel cheap. When reviewing interns ports, the sleeves have always distracted from their work. I want to pull them all out so I can see them better. The sleeves either feel gross, or have issues with sheen (even the non glare).

If the portfolio is to present to clients I would suggest putting the images in a presentation album you would normally sell. We have a couple of albums that hold 8x10s, 5x7s, and 5x5s. They look nice, feel nice, there is no sheen or weird feeling/smelling acetate, and best of all - they want to buy the products they handle. I also have an image box that holds 5x5s and they can pull out the individual mounted mats. The purchasing experience is very tactile. Make sure some of your work can be held (in album, mats, etc).

Im sure others use the photog portfolios and like them. Personally, I think why not promote yourself, your work, and your products at the same time? I cant tell you how many baby sessions I have booked b/c of the combination of the products AND my work. Cute products coupled with cute images, and BAM its too cute to not buy a session!

The presentation is a BIG deal when fishing for clients with a sea of photographers to choose from.

[Adam G]

Thanks for the tips!