When it comes to starting your career after graduation, it may seem difficult to know where to begin. Typically, a resume takes precedence and is the quickest way to show off the skills you learned and the experiences you’ve gained in your video game design program. While this is a good first step for any new graduate, game designers have additional options they can use to further make them stand out to potential employers, including a portfolio.
The main purpose of a portfolio is similar to that of a resume in that it is meant to showcase the unique talent that only you can offer. Unlike a resume, however, a portfolio can incorporate visual, artistic and interactive examples of your work. It also gives you a chance to highlight your passion and personality as a designer. If you want to find out how to create a portfolio that can help you land your dream job, read on for a few helpful tips.
Breaking into a Video Game Designer Career Starts with the Basics
First and foremost, a portfolio gives you the opportunity to make a good first impression. In a competitive field like video game design, this can be a crucial aspect of getting a coveted interview. But before you start applying the finishing touches, you must begin with the basics.
Oxford College can help prepare graduates for the realities of working in a modern setting
How will you present your portfolio? It can be either a physical document or digitally hosted on a platform. While there are certain advantages and disadvantages to both, with the prevalence of technology in today’s society as well as the nature of video game design, a digital portfolio tells employers that you are utilizing the lessons and experience from your video game design program to stay updated and current with the industry. Additionally, a digital portfolio is easier to share to other departments within the company which may also be hiring.
Video Game Designers Know a Portfolio Should Showcase Their Best Work
Although brevity is best for your portfolio, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice who you are as a designer to win employers over. Companies want people who will add value, and one of the best ways of demonstrating that is putting your best work forward by including projects which summarize who you are as an artist and how that will benefit potential employers.
Game designers stand out by including different styles and personal touches in their portfolio
Game development companies are interested in working with someone who not only has a genuine passion but can demonstrate that passion in a clear and concise way. The best method to do that is to simply be yourself. It may sound cliché, but showcasing who you are as an artist by featuring what you consider to be your best work can help you get started down the right path to a successful video game designer career.
Incorporate Images and Videos into Your Design Portfolio
Whether you decide to go with a physical or digital portfolio, it’s important to include a visual component. This can be screenshots of your work, still images or videos from certain projects you want to feature. If you really want to make an impression, personalize your portfolio and include projects that are relevant to the company you’re applying to.
When designing a portfolio, it’s best to keep things simple, uncluttered and easy to read. Employers who are hiring often have very limited time, and your portfolio should be short, sweet and to the point. Catching their attention with a colourful, well-placed image can help you stand out as a candidate and may even lead you into the job you’ve dreamed of.
Are you interested in starting a rewarding game designer career?
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