<p>If a student is going to submit a photography supplement on the Common App, would it be better for them to keep the pictures from one theme (which tells a story of sorts) or is it better to submit photos from a variety of genres?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>Is there a better forum to get this question answered?</p>
<p>It’s just a complicated question, I think, because nobody on CC is familiar with your work. I’ve taught high-school photography for over 25 years and have helped a lot of kids prepare portfolios for college applications–they all have been putting together small portfolios on a regular basis for at least a couple of years before they do this. But my usual starting point is to have them pick out what they think are their most representative pieces. We look for a through-line but also for pictures that reflect growth, flexibility, and a command of different techniques. Your distinctive voice is what should shine through, and that may be reflected in a sequential/narrative portfolio or in a more “sketchbook” approach–it really depends on what best conveys your vision. I hope that makes sense. Please feel free to PM me if you would like to ask other more specific questions. Are you working with a photography teacher?</p>
<p>When my son did his film portfolio (on DVD), he started out with a clip from a film he made when he was 9 years old, then one a few years later, then HS ones. The point was to show how long he had been in love with making films, and also how he had grown in the craft. I’ve often wondered if art/photography portfolios did the same. Do you try to include all your best work, or do you show how you’ve progressed over the years?</p>
<p>Not sure about photography portfolios, but the advice my D is getting re: fine art portfolios is generally–show your best work and nothing more than 2 years old. </p>
<p>I can see the attraction of the age-progression w/ the video portfolio, as it would be explained/obvious that some were done long ago. I’d be afraid to put anything very old in an art or photo portfolio unless it was truly outstanding.</p>
<p>D’s art teacher says many schools like to see a few series/connected pieces in a portfolio, so I think if you have a short series or two–great. But show some variety too.</p>