Pose yourself some questions to simplify the selection of suitable viewers:
- Of what kind/What type is my body of work? Artistic photography, documentary…?
- What do I expect from the viewing and what do I want to achieve?
- Inform yourself about the invited viewers and have their sector/field of profession in mind when you design your portfolio.
Your photographs should be carefully edited and presented adequately. Your briefcase, box or book has to be resistant enough to keep your work safe during transport and the sessions. Since your work will be touched by several people, it should be protected from fingerprints, creases and other damage.
Bring your business card. It is crucial that you can be easily reached in case someone shows interest in your work. Bring a notepad to write down any advice and contact.
Also have your work presented digitally on CD-Rom as it is the easiest way to hand it to interested viewers.
Be punctual! This way you can get the best out of the viewing time. Please don’t exceed the time limit, as otherwise all subsequent viewing will be delayed. Bear in mind that the actual conversation only takes 15 minutes.
Viewers are experts dealing with portfolios; therefore keep your presentation short and precise to save time for the feedback. Emphasise the way you would like to work with the reviewer to obtain useful advice. Exchange business cards and promotion material with interested viewers.
Keep in contact with interested viewers after the event while their memory is still fresh. Write to thank them, even if they could only give you advice. It could be a valuable contact for the future! For enabling us to improve our concept, please keep us informed on any successes and feedback resulting from FOTOBILD.
