Should I add text on pages in my portfolio?

kayleenartlover

Usually when watching Critique Arena, adding text seemed to be a no-no. (Obviously no comic-style dialogue.) If I make the illustrations show blank areas where text could be put, is that what publishers would expect to see? Or should I include actual text like some of Critique Arena's older prompts, like the one with Riley and her trashed garage?

Melissa_Bailey

@kayleenartlover the rule of thumb is no text in portfolios ... if there are any portfolio rules, that is! It seems that every time you can find a successful example or two of a broken "rule".

The reason most say to leave text off your portfolio illustrations is that it could actually end up being distracting rather than helpful. Book design and text placement is a skill in itself, and many illustrators haven't learned that skill yet.

So if you want to play it safe, leave text off of your portfolio illustrations. Leaving a space for text is enough.

carlianne

@kayleenartlover if you do text I would make sure it is well designed and placed. (Easy to read for example).

I would remove it if it doesn't add to the illustration. For example, if the text and illustration are saying the same thing I don't think you need it. But if the text adds a layer of story telling you should keep it. For example in my illustration the poster says "the untamable" with a ferocious lion but then we see how the bunny was able to tame the lion with a simple ball and string.

If the text is a part of the design and you're showing off typography skill I'd keep it. Like the way I used "Achoo!"

So basically it really depends, but as with anything in your portfolio only show your best work so if you aren't strong with text don't add it.

kirsten-mcg

@Melissa_Bailey and @carlianne thanks for your insights on this! I’ve got some portfolio images with text on them, and now I’m thinking it would be better to remove it.

Melissa_Bailey

@kirsten-mcg you're welcome! Glad we could help!

kayleenartlover

@carlianne Thanks for sharing! The image examples you added were useful too.

kayleenartlover

@Melissa_Bailey Okay cool! Hearing someone else say it was reassuring and I feel more confident on how I want to handle my portfolio moving forward. Thank you for sharing!

carlianne

@kayleenartlover happy to help! ️