"Please bring in your portfolio . . ."

[bwana]

So I received a request to bring in my portfolio to a potential client next week and, since it's in need of updating, I'm thinking that my iPad will do the trick.

I've used it in the past for spontaneous pitches and it certainly didn't hurt but I'm wondering if clients still expect to see one of the dead-tree variety. My plan is to also leave them with a pdf of the same portfolio to peruse again at their leisure.

Any thoughts? Has anyone experienced a negative response to using a tablet, or even a laptop?

 

[morkhans]

I happened across an article once that said that models were now running around with their portfolios on iPads rather than printed albums. So it certainly is the current trend.

 

[Gadget Man]

On your portfolio, use a "Go Green" logo ... something which says you support paperless. Look for a suitable one ... there must be hundreds around.

I wouldn't use a laptop for a portfolio. iPad is much better, and they will take to it better. Also shows that you are in with technology. A laptop creates a barrier between you and the Client if sitting across the table.

Leaving a copy of the portfolio behind is a must. PDF is fine and they can browse. Use a thumb drive for this, or better still create a Keynote / Powerpoint self play presentation or a self play PDF. If you use a "Go Green" logo, and they were thinking about the dead tree alternative, they will feel guilty when they see the logo. This is psychological and a must.

If you want to take it one step further, create a simple iWeb site and place some stuff online.

I don't think you would be disadvantaged.

 

[GTi]

I am investing in a Samsung Galaxy P7500 tab for this purpose, it was acceptable with my notebook so I don't see why not with the iPad or other tablets.

 

[bwana]

I happened across an article once that said that models were now running around with their portfolios on iPads rather than printed albums. So it certainly is the current trend.

Thanks.

On your portfolio, use a "Go Green" logo ... something which says you support paperless. Look for a suitable one ... there must be hundreds around.

I wouldn't use a laptop for a portfolio. iPad is much better, and they will take to it better. Also shows that you are in with technology. A laptop creates a barrier between you and the Client if sitting across the table.

Leaving a copy of the portfolio behind is a must. PDF is fine and they can browse. Use a thumb drive for this, or better still create a Keynote / Powerpoint self play presentation or a self play PDF. If you use a "Go Green" logo, and they were thinking about the dead tree alternative, they will feel guilty when they see the logo. This is psychological and a must.

If you want to take it one step further, create a simple iWeb site and place some stuff online.

I don't think you would be disadvantaged.

Some awesome tips there - I wouldn't have thought of the Go Green logo idea and I like it

 

[biena]

It could be a disadvantage, have different proposals to choose from spread in front of me, and 1 electronic one, will you now go through all the paper ones and then remember or even care that you still have an electronic one also.

When comparing proposals I want everything in the same format, make it easier for me to compare.

 

[LandyMan]

It could be a disadvantage, have different proposals to choose from spread in front of me, and 1 electronic one, will you now go through all the paper ones and then remember or even care that you still have an electronic one also.

When comparing proposals I want everything in the same format, make it easier for me to compare.

In the normal sense of proposals possibly, but when it comes to photographic portfolios (nothing really to read just pretty pictures) I would definitely go with the iPad ... bwana, just make sure you wipe all the finger smudges off that nice HD screen beforehand

 

[Gadget Man]

If you want to leave a lasting impression ... do this rather.

Keep to your electronic portfolio.

Select one of your best images ... print it to a suitable size and frame it. Leave behind that framed image for them to use in their offices (make sure the image and frame goes with their theme). They can't throw away the frame, or the picture and their only choice is to find somewhere to hang it. Make sure it is your best image ... and every time they see it, they will remember you. Make sure you leave your contact details on the image, inside the frame behind the glass. It's an expensive option, but worth it in the long run. If they are comparing printed portfolios, they only need to look at your one image to re-create the memory of you and of your iPad portfolio presentation.

The frame will always serve as a reminder that you exist as an artist.

If you don't get work this time around ... they will eventually give you a call.

 

[Jabberwocky]

Put a photo next to the display and check which looks the best... its about the subject matter

I`d think
Indoors - Electronic Display - better contrast
Outdoors - Paper - less glare

 

[DGremlin]

The truth is paper can have a greater impact, as the person looking interacts with the photo in a manner of speaking. The responses I have had from people when they see my work in a photobook or photo is far greater than when they see it on an electonic medium.
That said if the client is vibrant and young, then electronic may help ... personally I say plant a tree and make sure it grows as you print those photos.

 

[koffiejunkie]

I would say have both. Give them the iPad to look and and mention that you have a printed copy if they want. And remember two wipe the screen!

On your portfolio, use a "Go Green" logo ... something which says you support paperless.

I wouldn't do this. Chances are the prospective client might rely heavily on print for their income.

 

[bwana]

I would say have both. Give them the iPad to look and and mention that you have a printed copy if they want. And remember two wipe the screen!

Having both would defeat the purpose, wouldn't it? It's also a little late in the day to start printing and mounting.

And yes, I'll be giving the screen a good clean first.

 

[MadMailMan]

I would think it depends on the type of client. Is it for some sort of printed media or electronic? What do they plan on using your shots for? Mags, printed pamphlets, electronic pamphlets, web???

Ah well, just my 2c. Good luck though!

 

[bwana]

Well, I wasnt too keen on Photos to present my portfolio with but as it happens there's an app for that and I finally settled on Foliobook at about 23:30 last night. All worked out pretty well. I let them play with the portfolio app, explaining how I've integrated the iPad itself into my workflow, and they seemed to enjoy the experience.

Score one for the wow factor.