Im working on building up my graphic portfolio and need some suggestions...

[ZappaFan]

Does anyone have any suggestions on themes or ideas for my portfolio? I havent really done anything recently, partially because Im not sure what to make. Im using several different graphic programs, but I use Illustrator more than anything. Im fairly confident with it, but I still have lots to learn about all the features the program has to offer.

[ZappaFan]

By the way, here is some of my work. I do have ALOT more, but Im reluctant to post them because they have personal informaion.

[moron]

Originally Posted by ZappaFan

Does anyone have any suggestions on themes or ideas for my portfolio? I havent really done anything recently, partially because Im not sure what to make.

If you have to ask for themes or ideas you're not cut out to be a graphic designer. Your job would literally be coming up with those themes and ideas.

The best suggestion I can give you is figure out what you like and start cranking shit out- the best way to learn is to do.

You play bass right? Maybe try making fake concert posters for bands you like, maybe wooten or someone...

[ZappaFan]

Originally Posted by moron

If you have to ask for themes or ideas you're not cut out to be a graphic designer. Your job would literally be coming up with those themes and ideas.

The best suggestion I can give you is figure out what you like and start cranking shit out- the best way to learn is to do.

You play bass right? Maybe try making fake concert posters for bands you like, maybe wooten or someone...

Ive done like 10-15 bass/music related images already. Ive done pretty much everything I am interested in. Ive also done a bunch of flyers and logos for companies, events, soda can designs, environmental issues, political stuff, and a bunch of other random things. Im just looking for possible suggestions than I may not have thought about.

[constantinople]

t-shirt designs.

[Zok Jr.]

I'd say don't quit your day job bud. Either that or devote a whole lot more time to practicing.

[chilldo]

not to sound like a dick but other than your ability to use software, it doesnt look like you know anything about graphic design.
some of this stuff looks like something a soccer mom made in MS paint.

for starters you should probably:

1. stop using cheesy Photoshop filters to rip off other peoples photographs and illustrations
2. learn about basic layout and composition (including colour composition)
3. learn about classic font faces
4. look into basic principles of typography and graphic design. especially 'readability'
5. a good way to start is by looking at existing posters and layouts to see what they're doing and copy them / copy elements from them. alot of designers say its impossible to design in a vacuum.

[Skittles]

Originally Posted by chilldo

not to sound like a dick but other than your ability to use software, it doesnt look like you know anything about graphic design.
some of this stuff looks like something a soccer mom made in MS paint.

for starters you should probably:

1. stop using cheesy Photoshop filters to rip off other peoples photographs and illustrations
2. learn about basic layout and composition (including colour composition)
3. learn about classic font faces
4. look into basic principles of typography and graphic design. especially 'readability'
5. a good way to start is by looking at existing posters and layouts to see what they're doing and copy them / copy elements from them. alot of designers say its impossible to design in a vacuum.

QFT

You need to work on your design skills.

The main thing id say would be improve your type. Try not to use very easily recognized fonts (i.e. system defaults) as jokerman and papyrus makes it look like you've created it in Word. Start with classics as chilldo said, then have a look at more popular fonts on www.myfonts.com, or free alternative www.dafont.com. Being good at typography is an essential part of being a good designer.

[Taco]

Originally Posted by Skittles

QFT

You need to work on your design skills.

The main thing id say would be improve your type. Try not to use very easily recognized fonts (i.e. system defaults) as jokerman and papyrus makes it look like you've created it in Word. Start with classics as chilldo said, then have a look at more popular fonts on www.myfonts.com, or free alternative www.dafont.com. Being good at typography is an essential part of being a good designer.

This.This.This! x 10

Typography can make and break an illustration, I like to see creativity, and you my friend are lacking.

Did you go to school for this? orr you be freelancing ?