Preparing a smart, attention-catching portfolio is every art student's first important step before entering the job market. This comprehensive guidebook presents hundreds of demonstrative color illustrations, lists of do's and don'ts, and a wealth of sound advice on how to create a portfolio that will get beginners their all-important first job at an agency or studio. Each page of this book illustrates examples of effective portfolio design with captions that explain the thinking behind each design element. Some of the author's many suggested do's include-- Start with color and impact. Label your work succinctly and clearly. Agencies like concise captions describing problem-solving approaches. Evaluate the sequence of each example so that your portfolio tells a story Just a few of the don'ts include-- Don't put too many samples of your work in the portfolio. Choose quality over quantity Don't neglect to include samples that demonstrate skill with typography The author also advises on making the best impression at a job interview, and explains how working designers and illustrators make their sales pitch to get commissions. Every page of this informative book is filled with color illustrations.