Getting my first portfolio together. Need some advice.

I graduated from school two years ago in Graphic Design and am just deciding I want to get into the field after getting married and having a baby. To tell you the honest truth, that portfolio class I took has seemed to escape me. I've not had a chance to do real projects for anyone. I'm mostly going to rely on things I've made up to fill the pages. So, please excuse me as I ask away.

1. Logos: Is it ok to have more than one logo concept of the same company? Not to fill up pages, of course, but on the same page? I think it shows the different directions you are able to go with an idea. Or should I go with one to show that I found a solution? I'm just not sure which would be best.

2. Logos: Is it ok to have more than one logo from differnt companies on the same page?

3. Pages: What is the best way to lay it out? Should I lay it out on the computer, print and stick the page in? Is it better to mat the pieces onto another piece of paper? Seems normal paper just won't cut it. Something with a heavier weight perhaps?

4. Case: What do I put it in? 3-ring binder? Does that look amateur?

Thanks for any advice anyone can give me.

Thanks,
HeatherDawn

I think it's fine to gang up similar logo designs on a single page if you're trying to demonstrate a particular concept or technique.

Personally, I have my portfolio on loose black matte boards, approximately 11x16 in size (I don't remember the exact dimension at the moment, sorry) and I carry them in a simple black art case (like a briefcase without all the interior pockets)

When interviewing, I will take the stack of samples out (I recommend 10) and hold up each one and say something about it, and then pass it to the interviewer so they can examine it closely.

As always, neatness counts, so make sure your matte board is cut clean and straight, and if you have a ragged edge or corner, get some sandpaper and smooth it out. Make sure you don't have extra glue or smudges on your boards. Kneadable erasers are good for removing many kinds of smudges.

That's all I can think of at the moment. Good luck.

Thanks for the reply Marcos. I was beginning to think no one around had any graphic desgin experience. Another question, though. What to do about a mailable portfolio? What's the etiquette with those?

If you have several logos of the same company, maybe considering placing those in as "ideas" on loose paper, then having the final one (chosen by you, not necessarily the client) as the finished piece all nice and matted.

Also, have you thought about a digital portfolio? You can't take it with you on interviews, but it might be nice to have the URL on your resume.

BTW Marcos, I love your forum icon! I just watched it five times and laughed at every one.