Expert: Peter Gabany - 6/3/2009

Question
Dear Mr.Gabany,

I'm just starting out in advertising industry, with the intention of starting out as a copywriter. I am in the process of crystallising my spec ads and ideas, but I have not purchased a physical portfolio/folder to put my work into.

Please could you recommend a brand or type of portfolio that would look professional and last me some time? I want to be taken seriously

I have saved some money, and I think it is worth investing in - so please don't hold back on suggestions on account of expense.

Thank you in advance,

Carter

Answer
Ok here are some resources - http://www.brewer-cantelmo.com/ and http://www.lightimpressionsdirect.com/index.action and http://www.bookbindniagara.com/ This last one is very special. This is custom designed. He charges about $300 - $400cdn. We have seen a portfolio recently by him wich included a case bound book - the portfolio with logo mark in a step and repeat pattern for end papers, a slip cover on the book placed inside a nesting pocket of the portfolio box. Then an embossed mark (designers logo) on the cover flap.

Unfortunatly the portfolio was nicer than the content of the portfolio but only marginally. The applicants character made up for the lack of experience - each of the designers here were wowed by the presentation.

It is great to learn that a writer such as yourself is taking this step - please find a great designer to collaborate with and use things such as comped ads, letter forms, the alphabet for texture etc to pull off a stellar presentation. Oh and if you can afford it - search out letterpress for an even more personal touch.

Also don't rest your laurels with ad agencies only. There is a lot of work out there for writers to collaborate with web content developers and design agencies.

Let me know if this helps.

Pete