Your portfolio should be considered a piece into and of itself. Its more than a collection of samples, it IS a sample. It speaks volumes of your organization, production and presentation skills. It should include only your best work, printed or not. Remember this: you’re only as good as your worst piece, so keep it simple - 6 well-designed pieces will be better than 12 if half aren’t very good.
As for the case itself, unique is usually better than generic, but there are plenty of quality, off the shelf books to choose from. The case makes a nice first impression to be sure, but once it’s open, the work has to shine. An interviewer needs to get through it smoothly and you need to be able to update it easily. This is true for traditional page portfolios, hard cases with mounted boards, digital media, even your website or blog. Whatever you choose, be sure to present your work professionally. This is your first, and best, opportunity to demonstrate not only your talent as a designer, but your production, organization and communication skills as well. Take advantage.
KEY POINTS
1. Your portfolio is a portfolio piece
2. Be creative, but be professional
3. Make it count