Where Should I Build My Archviz 3D Portfolio?

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Portfolios; every 3D artist needs one, but where should you be building it in 2022? Here we’ll dive into the three main categories of portfolio options available to you nowadays...and which one hiring managers prefer.

Option 1: Custom portfolio website

The first option offers the most freedom in terms of design, structure, and functionality…but only if you’re willing (and able) to put in the time and money they require. 

Done well, a custom website can show that you have an impressive mix of technical and creative skills, as you are able to execute custom layouts, page designs, multimedia galleries and user experiences that are limited with other options. However, done poorly, it will overshadow any 3D skills you’re trying to showcase.

Pros:

  • High level of customization available for your portfolio structure and design

  • Basic website builders (listed below) are fairly user-friendly 

Cons:

  • You will have to pay yearly fees for your website and domain, so this is an ongoing financial investment

  • UX skills are important for pulling this off; if hiring managers can’t find what they’re looking for (and quickly) they won’t ask, they’ll just close the tab

  • You’re in charge of getting the word out and bringing visitors to your site (unlike a portfolio platform)


Popular website builders with a low-barrier of entry:

Option 2: Social media

The second option is probably the most accessible…but also the least customizable.

But in terms of ease, platforms like Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn can’t be beat.

Pros:

  • Free

  • Easy to use

  • Social networking opportunities are high

  • Opportunity to reach a wider audience through discovery

Cons:

  • You can’t customize the structure or design (though viewers might consider that a pro)

  • Limited technical features

  • Can seem a little “amateur” to potential clients or hiring managers

  • You’ll have to work on your visibility to get your portfolio seen by the right people, as social media is used for multiple reasons and industries


Popular social media sites for 3D archviz portfolios:

Option 3: Portfolio platforms (Behance & Artstation)

Purpose-built portfolio platforms are a great middle-ground between the high usability of social media and the customization of personal websites. As such, this is the option we recommend.

Unlike social media which serves many needs, portfolio sites were designed for showcasing work. This makes them ideal for building a portfolio and reaching the right audience.

Pros:

  • Free

  • Simple to use, but with most of the features you’ll ever need

  • Portfolio platforms are regularly used by hiring managers and clients seeking 3D professionals, making it easier for you to be found and hired.

Cons:

  • Limited customization (though some offer paid plans with increased customization)


Popular 3D portfolio platform sites:

  • Behance - Best for archviz, advertising and design audiences

  • ArtStation - Best for games, animation and technical audiences

So there you have it! While each option offers its advantages and drawbacks, we hope we’ve given you enough insight to choose which one best suits your needs.

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Need any more support with your 3D portfolio? Check out the next step in our complete how-to guide to creating a portfolio from scratch, with step-by-step advice on image selection, project descriptions and more:

> Step 2: Which projects should I showcase in my portfolio?
>> Step 3: How do I choose which project images to include in my portfolio?
>>> Step 4: What should I write in my portfolio project descriptions?