How do you create a portfolio for traditional animation jobs?

1 Know your audience

Before you start working on your portfolio, you need to research your target employers and projects. What kind of animation style, genre, and tone are they looking for? What are their expectations and preferences? How can you align your portfolio with their vision and goals? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your portfolio to their needs and interests, and increase your chances of getting noticed.

2 Choose your best work

Your portfolio should include your best and most relevant work that demonstrates your range and versatility as a traditional animator. You should have at least 10-15 pieces of animation that showcase your skills in different aspects, such as character design, storyboarding, layout, background, timing, and expression. You should also include some personal work that reflects your passion and originality. Avoid including unfinished, outdated, or low-quality work that might undermine your professionalism and credibility.

3 Organize your portfolio

Your portfolio should be easy to navigate and view, both online and offline. You should create a website or a blog that showcases your work in a clear and attractive layout, with a simple and memorable URL. You should also have a PDF or a physical copy of your portfolio that you can send or bring to interviews. You should organize your portfolio by categories, such as short films, commercials, web series, etc., and provide some context and details for each piece, such as the title, the duration, the role, the software, and the link.

5 Promote your portfolio

Your portfolio is useless if no one sees it. You should promote your portfolio through various channels, such as social media, online platforms, networking events, festivals, and competitions. You should also reach out to potential employers and clients directly, and send them your portfolio along with a customized cover letter and resume. You should also follow up with them and thank them for their time and attention. Promoting your portfolio will increase your exposure, reputation, and opportunities in the traditional animation industry.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?