A Dialogue to Hone Creative Futures: The Vogue Threads Portfolio Review

Creatives from various disciplines across fashion, photography, art and media gathered at the Portfolio Review, seeking feedback from industry leaders.

Photographers, stylists, multimedia artists, and fashion designers presented their work to a panel that included Vogue Philippines art director Jann Pascua, fashion director Pam Quiñones, fashion editor David Milan, photographer Mark Nicdao and producer Anz Hizon. After the two-day event at Vogue Threads Manila 2024, the Portfolio Review panelists reflect on their experiences and share what truly makes a great portfolio.

At the review, the strongest portfolios not only displayed technical skills but also demonstrated a personal narrative or unique artistic voice. “There are portfolios that are very consistent in how they translate creativity across different platforms. That, for me, makes a strong portfolio because it shows they know their creative core,” Pascua said. However, he also highlighted the value of versatility, adding, “If you’re diverse, it means you can be flexible as a creative. But for a portfolio review, it’s essential to present your authentic aesthetic and core ethos.”

Meanwhile, Hizon emphasized the importance of individuality and emotional resonance. “I value portfolios with a well-edited selection of images that reflect a strong sense of identity and clarity of vision,” he noted. “Technical knowledge is important, of course, but even more so is how they use their craft to either tell a story or evoke an emotion.”

If there was one thing that reverberated throughout the portfolio review, it was that this generation’s emerging creatives are pulling from diverse inspirations. “A lot of applicants showed works that were deeply personal, culling from their own experiences and capturing using resources available to them,” Quiñones noted.

Vogue Philippines producer Anz Hizon, fashion director Pam Quiñones, and photographer Mark Nicdao are panelists at the Portfolio Review. Photographed by Kim Santos

Hizon observed a clear influence on how creatives communicate their work, saying, “There’s a strong influence of digital culture and blending genres.” Pascua noticed that applicants have put an importance on sustainability, inclusivity and diversity. “It’s interesting that these are important to the young creatives now, seeing how things have evolved over the years.” It is fascinating to note that the interests of young creatives are reflective of the zeitgeist amidst a increasingly evolving natural world, and simultaneously, its rapidly innovating digital counterpart.

With all of these in mind, it was understandable for the applicants to feel nervous and uneasy about the review, as they’ve expressed while waiting for their turn to speak with their respective panelists. However, the panelists reiterate: There is nothing to be scared of. In providing feedback to the applicants, the panelists tailored their critiques by first understanding what the participants wanted guidance on. “Our approach was to guide them through their chosen path, and not impose techniques that deviate from their core creative values [by asking] what kind of guidance they were looking for,” Quiñones recalls. “Some would say to critique it from a fashion perspective, some would ask for career advice on how to expand their network, some would ask if they will make it on the pages of Vogue.”

“We offered actionable suggestions rather than just pointing out flaws and gave perspective on the creative process and the business side. More than a review, it was a discussion and exchange of ideas,” Hizon added.

Pascua, who had previously judged this year’s PhotoVogue, noticed that participants had different expectations about the review. “For me, a portfolio review isn’t just about critiquing work. Beyond evaluating their portfolios, I focus on where they need help to grow, whether it’s exposure, resources, or connections. I ask questions like where they see their creative journey in 10 years or what challenges they face, helping them think beyond their current work. My goal is to foster ongoing mentorship, which is why I share my contact information to stay accessible and continue supporting their progress.”

With an emphasis on communication and dialogue, the Vogue Threads Portfolio Review offers an optimistic glimpse into the future of Filipino creativity: a future that celebrates innovation, individuality, and the power of shared inspiration, creating a platform where emerging talent is not only recognized but truly nurtured. With initiatives like this, one can hope for even more opportunities to empower the next generation of Filipino creatives.

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