What do you do if your video production portfolio needs a post-layoff makeover?

1 Assess Damage

Begin by objectively assessing your current portfolio. Scrutinize each piece, asking yourself whether it reflects your highest quality work and if it's relevant to the direction you want to move in. Remove outdated or less impressive pieces that don't contribute to your professional narrative. This critical evaluation will help you identify gaps in your portfolio that need filling. Remember, quality trumps quantity. Your portfolio should be a carefully curated collection that highlights your versatility, technical skills, and creative vision.

2 Update Reel

Your demo reel is often the first impression you make on a prospective employer or client. Update it with your latest and most impressive work. Ensure the reel is concise, ideally around two minutes, and showcases a variety of styles and skills. If your recent projects were collaborative, highlight your specific contributions to avoid any confusion about your role. A fresh, engaging demo reel can reignite interest in your capabilities and help you stand out from the competition.

3 New Projects

Now is the time to start new projects to fill any gaps in your portfolio. These can be self-initiated or collaborative works that demonstrate your current skills and artistic direction. Consider creating content that is on-trend or showcases emerging technologies in video production. These projects don't have to be large-scale; even short, well-executed pieces can be powerful additions to your portfolio, showing your initiative and passion for the craft.

6 Continuous Learning

Lastly, invest in continuous learning to ensure your skills remain relevant and competitive. Explore new software, techniques, or genres within video production. Online courses, workshops, and tutorials can help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies. This commitment to growth not only improves your craft but also demonstrates to potential employers or clients that you're a lifelong learner dedicated to excellence in video production.

7 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?