Creating a UI UX portfolio is more than just a maintaining a collection of a few designs made in a design tool such as Figma. UX itself involves application of psychological principles to make the activity, and therefore the experience, of using a website, app, etc, seamless and natural to the user. This also involves principles of human-computer interaction (HCI) which provides a framework for a natural usage of these systems we are all so used to.
Don’t just focus on pretty designs, concentrate on the feelings, emotions and thoughts evoked by your design. While it is important to have aesthetically pleasing designs, it is more important to consider the thought process that a user may have when using the product. When carrying out actions, such as signing up, buying a product, using a service, etc.
To do the above, you will need case studies. Case studies in UX are detailed writings that explain how your designs solve a challenge, and subsequently how users would respond more favourably to your proposed designs. Keep users in mind, explaining how the designs benefit and resonate with the end clients and users.
Not only the end design is important, it is also a good idea to show the workflow. While of course potential future employers and/or clients want to see polished finished end designs, the workflow, prototypes and earlier designs are a good way to demonstrate your thought process. It depicts how you are able to adapt and evolve designs, showing your flexibility to the design challenge at hand.
Innovate. Given that there are many other UI UX designers making possibly similar designs, you need something new to stand out. There are many people in UI UX design, or trying to get into the field, and that’s fine as long as you are really interested in it. You would want to provide your twist and show your particular creativity.
If possible, include data on metrics such as conversions and SEO metrics. If clients use and commission your designs, if they give you permission it would be a good idea to use metrics to provide evidence of the success of your designs.
If you only wish to go into UI UX design for one industry, then it is ok to dedicate your portfolio to that one industry. While a general portfolio is also good even if you may just want to go into one industry, a dedicated one certainly carries benefits. You demonstrate to employers and clients your commitment, and your creative abilities to solve a range of design issues within that industry, not just one that may appear in a general portfolio. This may also make you a popular option for clients in that industry.
Include “About Me” and “Contact” sections. This is a great way to both allow potential employers and clients to contact you, but also learn more about you, your interests and your motivations.