I just found this forum and I wanted to ask a few questions.  I am applying for a first professional MLA degree  at a variety of schools for the Fall of 2012.  This is a major career shift as I've been working in NYC as a stagehand in lighting installations and production.  What I would like to ask from the forum is this...

I am seeking advice on how to compile a portfolio for someone who has no real landscape drawings.  I would call myself a semi-professional photographer (I've had a few paying gigs), I've done some lighting design, ikebana floral design, and  some community and volunteer gardening projects.  I've played around in google sketch-up and have a few designs.  Are these subjects the type of things a MLA program would be looking for in a portfolio?

Also, in terms of presentation should I include captions for every piece, or, provide some type of written narration of the portfolio in my statement of purpose. 

Finally does anyone have recommendations for binding styles for this type of mailing?

I have a lot of anxiety since I find most of the descriptions for portfolio requirements are vague. I'm applying locally to CUNY and SUNY, plus a few other schools outside the state.

 Thanks!