portfolio website feedback please?

susy

Hello,

I just finished putting together my website, and I was hoping anyone would be willing to offer some feedback on it for me. I just finished an Msc in Multimedia, just to put me in context. I'm applying for graphic/web design positions in general so if there's anything you think I should leave out/work towards putting in, suggestions would be great. I know the code probably isnt perfect, and Im sure I have a million things wrong that I dont even know about, so sorry in advance.....

The site is here http://www.aparadatairada.com

Thanks a million!

p

Overall, I think you've got potential, but you need to work on some things to get to the level you need to have the best chance at getting a job in this market.

I'd try focus on web or graphic work if possible. If you're going for web (which is my area) then you need to work on your HTML & CSS. Make sure you can write valid code by hand and can turn any design into a proper HTML template. There's work out there for junior designers who are willing to do that type of work. Also, I'd try build up more work in your portfolio. The stuff you have there is a bit generic and quite random. You need to have more websites, or example websites in there, both to sell your skills and improve them. Overall, I think you need to work on many of your basic skills like layout, typography, colour choice in order to keep improving.

Hope that's constructive - all the best.

susy

Hi p,

Thanks very much for taking the time to get back to me. Ill definitely take your advice on board, especially about getting back to the fundamentals, I knew typography was definitely something I needed to work on, and I'll chase up other basics too.

Thanks!

p

Also, just to add one thing. Use sites like creativeireland.com, stylegala.com, cssbeauty.com to get critiques and look at good examples of design. Developing a critical eye about other's work and your own is key.

susy

Great, thanks a million will do!

Kila

Hi,

Just a few bits.

If you're going to try to offer both web and graphic design type services, I would consider splitting your portfolio section into two, with one section focussing on the graphic elements, and the other on the web design elements. That way, you have more room to display and discuss your work without feeling like the portfolio section is too large.

In terms of the websites, I would consider writing a little blurb about each and displaying a screen shot alongside (which can then link to the url if you desire). A brief explanation of technologies used, highlighting any particularly cool things that the site does as a result of you designing it (e.g. are there forms, do they do anything fancy? Interactive sections? etc.).

The more examples of your work that you have, the better. It allows you to pick and choose the very best of what you've done to display in your portfolio. So to that end, I'd look at getting a few more sites under your belt to display. Maybe local clubs or businesses might be interested in having a website? You could do it at a low cost to them, and use it as a portfolio piece.

S.M.B.

This recent article from smashing magazine is well worth a read.

10 Steps to the Perfect Portfolio Website

susy

Thanks so much for all the replies, really helpful!