Artist Looking for Feedback

[NothingLikeit]

Hello,

I am putting together an Early working portfolio of game design work I've done so far. I am looking for feedback on the site layout, and in general my work. Keep in mind it is a work in progress. But if you check it out please be honest and critical. I appreciate any insight you forum members can provide.

Thanks,

Marvin H
http://marvinhawkins.weebly.com

[kevintrepanier]

Hi Marvin,

Your website's layout is nice and looks professional. However, you should shrink down your work selection to only the very best. You have too much sections that go in different directions. If you want to get artist work, then remove "level design", "scripting" and "design doc" from your portfolio. Concentrate on your strenght and on the strenght you actually want to develop and / or sell.

Starting out in game business is not easy! Work hard on your own stuffs and never give up. :)

[NothingLikeit]

Thanks Kevin,

I'm trying to get a job in game design if I can. Specifically levels or any other entry level position. My thing though is I can do art and script. I just wanted to show that I can do more than just have an idea or write a design doc. Is there a better way to show this?

[Game Producer]

I'd put something else in the reel's first pic (for example this one (http://marvinhawkins.weebly.com/uploads/1/9/4/9/1949152/9558663.jpg))... to ensure it really catches attention.

[kevintrepanier]

That's a good suggestion from GameProducer.

I've been a game designer myself for a short time (didnt like the company for which I worked for) and I had to start as a game tester before climbing my way there. Of course I had a very general formation which didnt gave me enough strength in either art or programming to get a specialised job so I got down to be a tester for almost two years, during which I got to read a dang lot of books on game design and practice with Flash prototyping. I've built a portfolio too, but it was mainly useless. Even the company that employed me, I doubt they even took a single look at it before hiring me as a designer. Learn to sell yourself in person instead and make sure that whatever you show for your portfolio creates some "wow" effect.

I wrote an article some time ago about my experience. Read it here (http://gamesandmen.blogspot.com/2007/04/how-to-become-game-designer-my.html) if you wish to learn more!