How to Make a Slide Portfolio

Many art schools require applicants to submit a slide portfolio of their best work when applying for admission. Color slides, which are portable and relatively inexpensive, are the most efficient method for admissions committees to review the work of dozens, or even hundreds, of art students from around the world.

Applicants can create a slide portfolio by photographing their work with a 35mm camera and sending the film to a developer. By following a few simple rules of basic photography, artists can capture the best view of their work and strengthen the chances of receiving an acceptance letter.

Things You'll Need

  • Table (optional)
  • Chair (optional)
  • Plywood (optional)
  • White illustration board
  • Black poster board (optional)
  • 35mm camera
  • Tripod
  • 35mm color daylight film
  • Macro focus lens
  • Masking tape
  • Easel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create the platform for photographing your three dimensional artwork. Set up either a table or a chair with a flat piece of plywood on it, outside where it will receive direct sunlight. Determine upon which side of the object the sunlight is shining. On the opposite side of the object, position a large white illustration board to reflect the light back on the object. Behind the artwork you are photographing, place a dark background such as black poster board.

    • 2

      Set up your camera. The camera should sit on a tripod. Position the camera so it focuses on the most important aspect of the three dimensional object. Ideally the sun should be behind photographer. When photographing a two dimensional piece, position the camera so the lens is parallel with the surface of the artwork. Be sure to use color daylight film.

    • 3

      Photograph your artwork. Start with the three dimensional pieces. The Rochester Institute of Technology's guide on photographing artwork suggests you adjust the lens so the entire object is within the camera’s depth of field. That is, no part of the object should be blurry. When photographing both two dimensional and three dimensional pieces, use a macro focus lens to take detailed photos of the most important parts of the work.

    • 4

      Mount two dimensional artwork. Affix masking tape to the backside of the artwork and then place the artwork on a dark piece of poster board. Set the poster board upright on the easel. Repeat Step 2 and Step 3.

    • 5

      Send the film to a photo lab that offers slide services. Color slides are single frames of color film mounted in a small cardboard or plastic window. The slides are loaded in the carousel of a slide projector and the image is projected on a large screen or even a blank wall.

      After a few days, pick up your slides. Hold each one up to a light to ensure they are your slides and that they have come out to your satisfaction.

    • 6

      Send the slides to your preferred school's admission committee. Review any published guidelines by the school regarding required types of artwork or maximum number of slides.

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