Whether you're thinking of creating an ad portfolio or already have one, whether you're a writer or an art director, in order to break through the crush of portfolios out there you need the big idea. You need ideas so big, they trigger many multi-channel executions. To put it into perspective, ideas that only work in the print medium won't get you the work. Today's book needs to show an understanding of large-scale conceptual thinking in all media. This course will explore how to conceptualize and develop a quality, big idea portfolio by creating campaigns that can stretch across print, outdoor, Web, ambient, viral, guerilla, etc. As a bonus, I'm going to help you diversify your book so it shows off your strengths and hides your weaknesses. Up your game. Get all the tools, techniques, principles, methods, strategies and practical skills you need to build an inspired portfolio that can put you in the strongest position to get the most creative and interesting work possible. I'll even show you the tricks behind practical type and design templates to enhance your presentation. Even copywriters will find these techniques useful. We all had to start somewhere, and the best way to move in-or move up-is by presenting the strongest portfolio possible. I know what today's creative directors look for in new talent-I want your portfolio to be sought after.

John Rea
Creative director, Euro RSCG Worldwide. Formerly, Wells Rich Greene BDDP, McCann Erickson, J. Walter Thompson, Rolling Stone

Accounts include: Coppertone, Volvo, Coca-Cola, OppenheimerFunds, ExxonMobil, Intel, HBO, Paramount Pictures, Woolite, Tic Tac, Showtime, ABC

Awards include: Gold Award, Effie; International Film and Television Festival; Cannes International Advertising Festival; Adweek's 100 Best; Art Directors Club; Type Directors Club; Archive; Graphis

Education: BFA, School of Visual Arts