Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
issuu.com/gracefulspoon/docs/080206_arch_portfolio
Issuu provides three viewing options for your work: as a flat
PDF file, as a presentation, and this version, magazine format,
which mimics the look and shadow effects of a bound book.
Paid and invitation-only sites, on the other hand, are a more upscale version of
the concept. With a barrier to entry, they're more likely to contain professionals rath-
er than hobbyists. As with self-publishing sites, friends, members of circles, and casu-
al viewers leave comments about the work. What's most telling is that in a profession-
al site, those comments go beyond the “way cool” level. Most are informed, some are
critical, and the people behind them often carry the weight of reputation. A portfolio
that surfaces to the top in a professional site can easily lead to contacts and a career.
Among the well-established portfolio sites for professionals, are the AIGA mem-
bers-only portfolio site (
www.aiga.org),
and Communication Arts' Creative Hotlist
(
www.creativehotlist.com),
which offers an inexpensive six-month subscription that
allows you to post a PDF and a small online portfolio.
The relative newcomer, with an unusual combination of social network publish-
ing and exclusive access is Behance (
www.behance.net).
It doesn't charge a fee, but
you can only join if you are invited by another member, or if you petition the site
editors with a detailed description of your creative work or involvement in the profes-
sional creative process. There is no way to buy yourself into a featured position.
