How Many Photos Should a Portfolio Include?
At my photography workshops, I’m often asked: How many photos should a photographer include in their portfolio? The classic advice says 20-30 of your strongest images. Enough to showcase your visual language, consistent quality, and personal style but not too many to overwhelm.
That’s what I also used to believe.
Living and working as a photographer on Phu Quoc Island, I’ve captured hundreds of love stories, weddings, individual portraits, and editorial moments, and I once tried to narrow it all down. I deleted 30 older works from my “small” selection of 100 images and was left with... 65. Not quite the minimalism I planned!
But I did it for a reason.
I kept only the photographs that speak to my current taste and creative direction, the ones that truly represent who I am today, both as a wedding photographer and as a professional retoucher. Everything else felt outdated and didn’t reflect the emotions or quality I deliver to couples and individuals who choose me for their Phu Quoc photoshoot.
A portfolio isn’t just a gallery. It’s a conversation with future clients. That’s why cleaning it up from time to time is necessary. Each image you see now on stelmakh.com, from romantic beach weddings to cinematic solo portraits, reflects the stories I’m most proud to tell.
So here’s to those that made the final cut.
And here’s to you, ready to create your own chapter.
Although if you look at my portfolio, I have about 50 photos in each section. :)
Ready for Your Phu Quoc Photoshoot?
Whether you’re planning a wedding by the sea, a romantic escape, or simply want to celebrate yourself, let’s capture it together. My camera is ready.
📌 Contact Me:
✉️ Email:
morefoto@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp:
+84 343 894 782
Visual island stories, told through the lens of Stelmakh.
stelmakh.com