Common Photography Portfolio Mistakes to Avoid

Whether you're looking to advance your career or simply improve your craft, the way you present your work speaks volumes. A polished portfolio distinguishes you from the amateurs, showing not only your technical skills but also your ability to curate. Understanding which shots to include—and more importantly, which to leave out—is a crucial step in this process.

Coming to you from Justin Mott, this insightful video discusses some of the biggest mistakes photographers make in their portfolios. Mott emphasizes the importance of curation. For instance, he points out the common tendency among amateurs to include photos that don’t really belong in a professional portfolio. Take, for example, the travel shots of kids staring directly into the camera. While these images might be cute and seem like they capture the moment, they often come across as snapshots rather than polished, professional work. Mott suggests that instead of settling for the easy shot, you should wait for a more natural, unposed moment to capture something truly compelling.

The video also highlights the pitfalls of including clichéd images, such as the overly familiar shot of an elderly person selling goods at a market. Mott argues that these kinds of images, while they might seem interesting at first glance, often lack depth and originality. Instead of settling for the obvious, he encourages you to engage with your subject, take your time, and think about how you can make the scene come alive. This might involve finding the perfect light, waiting for the right moment, or even framing the shot in a more creative way. The goal is to avoid images that feel awkward or staged and instead create something that feels authentic and powerful.

Another key point Mott discusses is the importance of technical precision. He stresses that unsharp images, overexposed highlights, or random building shots that don’t tell a story have no place in a professional portfolio. He reminds viewers that a pro's portfolio should be free of technical flaws. If an image isn’t sharp where it needs to be or if the exposure is off, it’s better left out. This might seem like basic advice, but it's a reminder that attention to detail is what separates the pros from the amateurs. Mott also cautions against redundancy. It’s easy to become attached to certain shots, especially if they were taken during a memorable trip or an exciting event. But filling your portfolio with multiple similar images can dilute the impact of your work. Instead, Mott advises selecting the strongest image and letting it stand on its own.

What stands out in this video is the emphasis on intentionality. Mott isn’t just sharing a list of dos and don’ts; he’s encouraging you to approach your portfolio with a critical eye, focusing on what each image adds to your overall narrative. A professional portfolio isn’t just about showcasing your best work—it’s about showing work that’s thoughtful, refined, and deliberate. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mott.