Introduction to Adobe Portfolio: Is It the Right Tool for You?

Creative Professionals need to constantly promote their work. Using tools like Adobe Portfolio is a great way to build your online presence!

You can choose any of their pre-made templates, use their live editor, and get a portfolio ready in no time! Moreover, you require little to no coding knowledge to get started with Portfolio.

In this article, we will discuss everything under the sun about Adobe Portfolio. We will cover how to use Portfolio, its features, pros and cons, pricing, and alternatives.

What Is Adobe Portfolio?

As the name suggests, it is a platform to showcase your creative portfolio. For creatives, projects are the new resume. Creating a website, hosting it, and uploading content is quite a task. But Adobe Portfolio makes it easy for you.

You can build a no-code portfolio website. Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscribers get free access to the portfolio platform and other Adobe applications.

What makes the platform unique is its unlimited storage capacity. This allows you to upload as much content as you want. Additionally, you can choose between twelve free portfolio templates. This will make creating a portfolio website a piece of cake.

You also don’t have to rely on third-party platforms to host your site. Adobe allows you to host and create a custom domain. Your portfolio looks all the more professional!

This makes Portfolio an ideal tool for graphic designers, photographers, and other creatives.

How Did Adobe Portfolio Start?

We know that Adobe has a monopoly in the design world. It has more than 20+ applications and is a popular choice among content creators. Portfolio is just the cherry on the cake! The platform was launched during the Adobe Max Conference 2015.

The company’s reasoning for launching the tool was simple. They stated that Creative Cloud subscribers could take care of their entire creative process on Adobe. From design to publishing their final work, subscribers can access various tools for all their needs.

What Are the Features of Adobe Portfolio?

So, what sets Adobe’s tool apart from others? Here are six reasons why the Adobe Portfolio Website is ideal for creatives! These are:

1. No-Code Website Builder

Building a website could get complicated if you don’t know much about HTML and CSS. You could save yourself the trouble by using Portfolio. This platform allows you to see how your design pans out and lets you live-edit the site.

2. Full Portfolio and Welcome Page Themes

For creatives, showcasing their work in a professional portfolio is essential. With Adobe Portfolio Themes, you can choose a pre-made theme to make a great impression.

You don’t have to spend hours creating a site from scratch. Moreover, updating and adding content to your portfolio is extremely easy.

3. Custom Domain & Registration

Portfolio lets you host your website by using a free custom sub-domain. Also, you could purchase a custom domain directly from Adobe. This will help you look more professional and position yourself as a brand.

4. Behance & Lightroom Integration

For Behance & Lightroom users, Portfolio is a time saver. You can auto-add your Behance projects to your site. This will help you streamline all your projects in one place. Similarly, Lightroom users too can import their images straight to Portfolio.

5. Responsive & Customizable Design

Portfolio has a great live editor that allows you to customize your website. The platform caters to all your needs – whether you want a full-blown portfolio or a single page.

You can choose from 12 templates and make custom edits to the site. You can change the background, add overlays, and even access Adobe tools like Fonts.

Additionally, Portfolio is also a responsive tool. This means that your site will be optimized for every device.

6. Can Host Upto 5 Websites

If you want to create multiple websites, then Portfolio makes it easy. The platform allows users to create and host up to five different Adobe Portfolio Websites. Moreover, you get all this at no extra cost.

Businesses and creative artists that want to showcase multiple samples will find this feature helpful.

Here’s a rundown and general overview of Portfolio.

How to Use Adobe Portfolio?

If you are just starting with Portfolio, here are a few steps to help you! We are assuming that you have an active Creative Cloud subscription. Without a subscription plan, you won’t be able to use Portfolio.

Step 1: Accessing Portfolio

Fire up your Adobe Creative Cloud app. On the left sidebar, notice the Resource Links section. Under this section, you’ll see the Portfolio option; click on it! This will open up the browser page for Adobe Portfolio login.

Step 2: Selecting a Theme

Once you log in with your credentials, you’ll have to preview and pick a theme. You can either create a Full Portfolio or a simple Welcome Page.

Depending on what you choose, various Adobe Portfolio templates will show up. Click on the one that you like the most!

Step 3: Adding Pages and Importing Images

After selecting a theme, you’ll see your site. You can go ahead and start customizing it! Begin by adding pages to your site.

You’ll see an option to add a custom sub-page or import your album from Lightroom. If you add a page, you have to give the page a title and select its destination.

Once you create a page, you can build it by adding elements like Images, Text, Photo Grid, Lightroom, Video, etc. Moreover, you can further customize the page with the help of the left sidebar.

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Step 4: Editing the Homepage

Adobe portfolio edit feature is relatively easy to use. If you click on the plus icon on the top-left corner of the sidebar, you can select the type of page you want to create.

This includes a Custom Page, Welcome Page, Lightroom Album, Collection, or Link. To create a landing or home page, select the Welcome Page option.

You’ll then be asked to select a layout for your homepage. Go ahead and customize the page as per your liking. You can change the background, colors, and font.

You can also add your social media profiles on Portfolio. Simply hover over the plus icon and select Social Icons from the list.

This will open a left sidebar that mentions all the social media platforms. All you need to do is add your social network URLs in the empty field.

Additionally, you can also click on the plus icon to add a Contact Form. If you hover over the Contact Form, you’ll see a blue text that says Contact Form with an edit button. Click on the customize option to add new or edit fields, buttons, and messages.

Step 6: Setting the Domain Name

On the left panel, select the settings options. From the options, click on Domain Name. You can connect your existing domain to Adobe or purchase a new one. Finally, set the sub-domain name for your site.

Step 7: Changing Page Settings

You can also change the order of your pages in Portfolio. Just drag the triple bar symbol to rearrange the pages.

You can do the same for the sub-pages in the collection. Also, you can import content from Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Stock, and Behance.

Step 8: Using Global Visual Settings

On the left sidebar, there’s the site-wide section. Here, you can control your site’s background, colors, font, and media content styles.

Step 9: Linking to External Sites

We’ve already covered how to add social media links. However, you might want to add other external links.

To do this, click on the Add Page plus icon in the top-left corner. From the options displayed, select Links. You’ll be asked to give the link a title and add the URL. This will add the external site to your header menu.

Step 10: Publishing the Site

If you are done editing your site, hit the green button on the bottom-left corner of the sidebar that says, “Publish My Site.”

If you are looking for an Adobe Portfolio tutorial, here is one:

Is it the Right Tool For a Creator?

You know everything required to get started with portfolio adobe. But hold on. Is it the right tool for you? Should you go for it? Who uses the Adobe Portfolio Website?

The Portfolio FAQ help page mentions that its platform is ideal for all creatives. However, it is best suited for those working in photography, fashion, illustration, graphic design, and architecture.

If you are a blogger, avoid Portfolio. This is because Portfolio has very little to offer for text-heavy websites. But for those looking to create a visual resume of your projects, Portfolio is the right tool!

Here are a few Adobe Portfolio Examples for you to gather inspiration – https://portfolio.adobe.com/examples/

What are the Reviews for Adobe Portfolio?

By now, you know how to use Portfolio! Let’s discuss the Pros and Cons of using Portfolio. Here are five arguments for and against the platform:

Adobe Portfolio Pros

Unlimited Collections:

Collections are pages in Portfolio. A standout feature of the platform is that it allows you to create unlimited collections. This means you can create as many pages as you want for every one of your projects. So, you could develop galleries for different clients and projects you’ve worked on!

No-Code Website Builder:

We discussed this in our previous section. However, it is worth mentioning again. Users require no coding skills to set up their portfolio site. You can do away with HTML and CSS on this platform.

Adobe Portfolio Themes:

Portfolio allows you to choose between 8 different themes. You can customize elements within each theme. Moreover, the interface is easy-to-use and responsive. Also, you can go back and change the theme any time you want.

Part of Other Adobe Creative Cloud:

Portfolio is a part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud All Apps plan, the photography plan, and the Single App plan.

This means that you’ll also get access to other apps that Adobe has to offer. If you want to know more, check out the Adobe Creative Cloud Plans, Pricing, and Membership page.

This includes platforms like Lightroom, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Fonts, etc. Getting access to the entire Adobe ecosystem makes using Portfolio all the more attractive.

Automatic Image Resizing:

Your image resolution is automatically reduced in Portfolio. This feature makes your site load faster. It helps in preventing copyright theft. Also, your images are optimized for web viewing.

Adobe Portfolio Cons

Needs A Creative Cloud Subscription:

Though we highlighted this as a plus, it is also a notable drawback. The usefulness of Portfolio depends on whether you are using other Adobe tools. Getting a creative cloud subscription is a major put-off for those just wanting to create a site.

Poor E-Commerce Support:

If you want to sell your work online, then Portfolio is not the platform for you. However, you could link your work to a sales page on Portfolio. You don’t get a shopping cart feature that you could add to the site.

If selling your work is the purpose, then heading to other platforms like WordPress would be better.

Less Templates:

Users wanting to create unique-looking sites will be disappointed with Portfolio. The platform has a limited set of templates. You’ll find many other profiles online with similar-looking portfolio galleries and layouts.

Lack of Design Options:

Additionally, Portfolio also has limitations in the design department. Unlike other website builders, it doesn’t have a drag-and-drop feature.

You can alter elements like background, color, and fonts. But that’s it. This makes the platform limited even in terms of customization.

Suitable For Non-Text Websites:

Another drawback of Portfolio is that it is only suited for non-text websites.

If you’re a blogger, you might want to skip Portfolio altogether. It provides little to no support for text content platforms.

The Final Verdict

So, is Portfolio worth investing in? If you don’t plan on using other Adobe tools along with Portfolio, this platform is not for you. Portfolio cannot be purchased individually. Moreover, Adobe’s pricing plans are on the expensive side.

If you are just getting started with your online presence, you can search for other alternatives. However, if you use other tools like Photoshop, InDesign, etc., then investing in Adobe’s subscription plan is worth it.

The platform does offer beautiful layouts, pre-made templates, a live editor, and basic customizations.

What is the Cost of Adobe Portfolio?

Let’s move on to discuss an important question: the Adobe Portfolio price. If you’re already subscribed to Creative Cloud, then Portfolio is offered free under this plan. There are different Creative Cloud plans available for users.

However, users looking for cost-effective options can also pay for individual apps. But do remember that Portfolio cannot be purchased individually. You’ll get the platform in addition to other Adobe apps.

Adobe Portfolio Pricing Plans

Creative Cloud – Photography Plan:

This plan will cost you $9.99 per month. Under this plan, you’ll get around 20 GB of cloud storage. Moreover, along with Portfolio, it will include other apps like Lightroom, Lightroom Classic, Photoshop, and other web customization tools.

Creative – All Apps Plan:

The All Apps Plan will cost you $54.99 per month. Here, you’ll get access to 20+ Creative Cloud apps, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat Pro, and Premier Pro.

If you are purchasing a custom domain for your portfolio, it will cost you additional fees. Also, Adobe has different plans for businesses, schools, and students.

Companies have to pay $39.99 per month, whereas Students & Teachers can access it for $19.99 per month. For Universities & Schools, there is a $14.99 per month plan available.

Another point is that monthly plans require an annual commitment. If you cancel your plan mid-way, you’ll still have to pay 50% for all the upcoming months.

This pricing strategy of Adobe is a drawback for users. However, the platform does provide a 14-day money-back guarantee offer. Moreover, you can also use their 30-day free trial before subscribing to any plan.

What are Some Alternatives to Adobe Portfolio?

Even though Portfolio is loaded with features, Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscription is not for everyone. For one, it is pretty expensive. Additionally, if you are not a serious creative, signing up for 20+ apps is simply not worth it.

For those who still want to create their online portfolio, we’ve got you covered! There are other alternatives that are easy on your wallet.

Here are our top five alternatives to Adobe Portfolio:

1. Squarespace

The first alternative to Portfolio is Squarespace. What is Squarespace? It is a website builder for photographers, designers, and other creative artists. Just like Portfolio, it is a no-code site builder. Moreover, it is packed with templates, e-commerce checkout tools, and custom domain names.

So, who’s the winner in Adobe Portfolio vs. Squarespace war? Well, it depends.

If you are looking for an extensive template gallery, SEO tools, features, support services, and app plugins, Squarespace has the upper hand!

Squarespace Pros:

Unlimited Storage
Multiple Portfolio Templates
Support Services
SSL Certificate
14 – Day Free Trial

Squarespace Cons:

No Free Plan
Not Easy to Use
Slow Page Speed
Inconvenient Website Editor
Expensive Monthly Pricing

2. Wix

The second alternative to Adobe is Wix. It is a free, user-friendly website that is packed with built-in features. What makes Wix different is that the platform caters to all sorts of users. Whether you want to create a professional portfolio or a personal blog, you’ll find a template suited to your needs.

Also, Wix has an easy-to-use editor and a free plan for users. The platform’s main aim is to help users build their online presence.

Wix Pros

Free Plan
Easy-to-Use Editor
Multiple Templates
No Transaction Fee for E-Commerce Sites
Flexible Website Builder

Wix Cons

Poor Customer Support
Expensive Plans
Slow Mobile Loading Speed
Hidden Expenses
SEO Optimization Issues

3. Weebly

The third on our list is Weebly. Weebly is another no-code, drag-and-drop website builder. Unlike other options, Weebly allows you to launch your site on the free plan. If you’re just starting to build your online presence, Weebly is a great tool.

Moreover, it has an affordable pricing plan. It is an ideal platform for small businesses, bloggers, portfolio builders, and hobbyists looking to sell limited products. Also to be noted is that Squarespace acquired Weebly in 2018.

Weebly Pros

Free Plan
User-Friendly and Smooth Interface
Excellent Templates
SEO Settings
Great App Center

Weebly Cons

Low Innovation and Product Development
Not Suitable For Bloggers
Not Mobile Responsive
Limited Editor
Customer Support

4. WordPress

The most versatile website-builder tool is WordPress. The reason why WordPress is popular is due to its flexibility.

It caters to a vast audience. This includes small businesses, bloggers, e-commerce stores, online course providers, and portfolio builders.

WordPress integrates well with third-party tools and is mobile responsive and SEO friendly. Also, if you are creating a portfolio, you can choose from thousands of templates.

WordPress Pros

Easy to Scale and Get Started
Vast Collection of Plugins, Add-Ons, and Extensions
Popular Among Third-Party Tools
Thousands of Templates
Mobile-Friendly

WordPress Cons

User in Charge of Security, Updates, and Backups
No User Support
Difficult to Add Custom Functionalities
Too Many Options and Features
Learning Curve

5. Cargo

Our final recommendation to build your portfolio is Cargo. If you want a portfolio high on aesthetics and design, the Cargo is just right for you! Designers and artists use the platform to showcase their work, to create online stores and blogs.

Just like other alternatives, it is a no-code website builder. You can build responsive, aesthetically-pleasing, and sleek websites with Cargo. Moreover, you can even customize the site to your liking!

Cargo Pros

Responsive Website
60+ Templates
Charges Apply Only After Project Goes Live
Customizable
Affordable

Cargo Cons

Customer Support
Does Not Support All Browsers
Lack of Plugins and App Store
Limited SEO optimization
Lack of Backup Function

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Conclusion

Adobe Portfolio is an excellent addition to the Adobe ecosystem. With the tool, the company has brought the entire creative process full circle.

The platform has features like responsive and customizable designs, no-code builder, multiple website support, Behance & Lightroom integration, and unlimited collections.

However, the usefulness of Portfolio depends on whether you’re using other Adobe tools. If you just want to create an online portfolio site, it is best to look for alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How to transfer Adobe Portfolio to another account?

Unfortunately, there is no way to transfer your site from one account to another. Evidently, Adobe has made this very clear on its website.

The platform says that users can only change or update their e-mail associated with their Adobe ID. There is no way that a user can merge or transfer Adobe Portfolio sites from one account to another.

2. How to change Adobe Portfolio URL?

Every Portfolio user gets a unique URL. The unique URL is called your domain name or the address that users type to land on your site. For Portfolio, this URL looks like – username.myportfolio.com.

This is what you need to do to change your Portfolio URL.

On the left panel, click on Settings
Within Settings, select Domain Name
Click on the field below Site Sub-domain
Once you are done changing the URL, click on Apply

3. How much does Adobe Portfolio cost?

You cannot purchase Portfolio individually. The application is clubbed with other Adobe Tools under the Creative Cloud plan. In general, there are two plans:

The Creative Cloud – Photography Plan: This plan costs $9.99 per month
The Creative Cloud – All Apps Plan: The All Apps plan costs $54.99 per month.

Additionally, there are different plans for businesses, students, teachers, and universities. Also, you’ll have to pay extra if you want a custom domain.

4. How does Adobe Portfolio work?

Portfolio has an easy-to-use intuitive editor. To use Portfolio, all you need to do is visit the Creative Cloud App and click Portfolio from the Resources section.

Next, select the type of site you want to build: Full Portfolio or just a single Welcome Page. Then, select a template to get started and use the Portfolio editor tool to customize your website.

5. How to get Adobe Portfolio for free?

If you are thinking, “Is Adobe Portfolio free?” Well, the answer is kind of. The platform is free with any of Adobe’s Creative Cloud Plans. If you want to get Portfolio for free, you could subscribe to any Creative Cloud plans on a trial basis.

6. Does Adobe Portfolio save automatically?

Yes, whatever changes you make in the live editor get saved automatically. You can edit and make changes to your Portfolio whenever you want. Moreover, the platform automatically syncs these changes with your Behance Profile.

7. Where is the PDF portfolio option?

To create an Adobe Portfolio PDF, you must visit the Adobe Acrobat application. Within the file option, click on Create and select PDF Portfolio.

In the PDF Portfolio dialog box, drag and drop the files you want to convert. Once you are done, click on create, and the files will get added to your PDF Portfolio. You’ll then see a thumbnail of the PDF Files in Acrobat.

8. Does Adobe Portfolio include hosting?

Yes, Adobe Portfolio does include hosting. You could set up a site sub-domain, purchase a new one, or even connect your existing custom domain.