Starting out is such an exciting time in your career.

Especially when it comes to your portfolio.

This is the one time when nobody expects you to have produced “real” work in your folio.

You can do anything, for any brand.

As long as it’s great.

No restrictions. No client to say “no.” Anything goes.

Bonus points if you pick challenging brands to do spec ads for.

And Eric has.  He’s resisted the temptation to do all-to-common and easy ads for condoms, hot sauce, and beer.

Which I applaud, but some of the ideas feel like first thoughts rather than deep creative explorations.

And there aren’t that many of them.

I’d suggest aiming for around 12 pieces at a minimum in your folio. As long as all of them are great.

I really like Eric’s willingness to put himself out there with regard to all the personal info he shares on his site.

I think it’s important to present your work in a way that helps people get a sense of who you are.

But it’s also possible to overdo it and confuse your message and personal brand as a result.

If someone is looking at your site, it’s because they want to see your work first.

And decide if they like you second.

So my advice is to lead with the work, not the bio.

Unless the bio relates directly to why you do what you do.

Thanks for sharing your portfolio!