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presentation of portfolio.. funky vs "professional"?
Hello peeps! I am planning to apply to M'Arch in 2012, after I finish my undergrad degree in Economics and Computer Science. And I am about to start working on different projects I can put into my portfolio in the summer.
Recently, I have been looking at portfolios on issuu for inspiration. I can't help but to notice that most, if not all, architectural portfolios use very minimalistic designs. On the other hand, the graphic design portfolios are a lot more colorful, lively, and (no offense) less boring. I mean, the minimalistic approach of the arch portfolios is nice and more professional looking, but I feel like the funkiness of the graphics portfolios are just more inviting to look at, and more suitable for my personal taste.
So my question is, if I do opt for the more funky presentation for my portfolio, will that make me stand out in a good way, or put me in major disadvantage? Say a guy applied to M.Arch with this portfolio (which I'm in love with), will he get a shot at all?
Thank you! :):)
The reason for the minimalist approach is to allow the work to stand out without having to compete with other graphics. If the projects themselves are strong, then it's best not to take away from them. That being said, if you don't already have a background in architecture with a collection of design projects to show, then I could see the graphic design of the portfolio itself being more important.
You have to be good a graphics (not just think you're good like most of us) to pull it off which is another reason most people use a minimal portfolio. Whatever route you choose show people your portfolio often to get opinions on whether the graphics are helping/hindering.
ya, it's all about the quality of the content and clarity of communication. the graphic design of an architectural portfolio should probably be at the service of the primary purpose of the portfolio -- showcasing the content. if "graphic design" is an important aspect of the content...ya, what tagalong said...
That portfolio is still pretty minimal - it is his graphic work that shouts out, not the layout/presentation. Make sure you can clearly see the difference. I only briefly flipped through it, but it looks like basic white pages, black text with variuos sizes of work. Again, though, it is the work that screams with color and design, not the layout.
You can be creative with your graphics, but be careful, you better be clear and have a solid idea and consistency.
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