Portfolio Breakdown
The process shots that prove how a piece was made
Also known as: Breakdown shots · Art breakdown · ArtStation breakdown · Wireframe breakdown · Process breakdown portfolio
Definition
A portfolio breakdown is the set of images or videos that shows how a piece of art was made, in addition to the final render. For a 3D asset it usually includes the final view, a wireframe or topology view, the UV layout, the texture maps, a clay or untextured render, and a view in the game engine. A breakdown proves that you did the work, that it is technically sound, and that you understand the production process, which is what studios want to see.
In production
Use clean, consistent images with simple labels, and show the real topology and texture density, not a decorated version. Include the polycount, texture sizes and software you used. Keep it short and clear, with the best content first, and make sure it matches the standard of the final image. For environments, add a layout or blockout shot and a few close-ups, and for characters, a turnaround and a pose.
