Interview with Nomi Altabef

Q. A portfolio can be an artistic statement in itself. What defines a good portfolio in your mind?

Nomi: An effective portfolio accurately represents the designer's abilities and skills in the best possible light. This means that it is clean and well put-together, and while it's nice to try to be a little different, a portfolio should not look gimmicky. The viewer should be more aware of the work than the portfolio itself. An effective portfolio illustrates the designer's self-presentation and communication abilities as well as showcasing the work.

Q. When you're starting to learn design, it's tempting to stuff your portfolio with everything and the kitchen sink. What defines a "portfolio piece?"

Nomi: For a design student, the more in-depth the project, the more chance it has of becoming a good portfolio piece. A piece that clearly shows the ability to research a project and also exhibits skill with typography, color, composition, and technical issues will say a lot about the designer in a small space. A prospective employer will be going rapidly going through your work, and so you have limited spaces to fill in a portfolio.

Q. Sounds like you need a clear picture of your work's strengths and weaknesses. How it important is it to get a second opinion about your body of work as a whole?

Nomi: Getting a second opinion is super-helpful. It's very difficult to self-edit, especially when you're putting together your first portfolio. You may be really attached to a certain piece of work that just doesn't fit in with the rest of your book, and it really should be taken out. Without a second opinion, it's difficult to see that.