Comparisons
Format vs MyArtPDF: portfolio website ≠ portfolio PDF
Format helps you build a portfolio website. MyArtPDF helps you create a structured, submission-ready PDF portfolio.
Quick answer: use Format for your online portfolio, and MyArtPDF for applications, galleries, residencies, and art schools.
- Format: online portfolio website
- MyArtPDF: portfolio PDF for submissions
- Best for visibility: Format
- Best for applications: MyArtPDF
The short answer
Format is for showing your work online. It is designed for photographers and artists who want a clean, navigable portfolio website.
MyArtPDF is for sending your work. It is designed for applications where your portfolio must be reviewed quickly and consistently.
They solve different problems.
The key idea
A portfolio website is not the same as a portfolio PDF.
One is explored. The other is evaluated.
Online portfolio vs submission portfolio
Format is optimized for browsing:
- navigation between projects
- scrolling and discovery
- flexible structure
MyArtPDF is optimized for review:
- fixed order
- clear sequence
- fast reading
Why that matters
Reviewers do not browse your work like a visitor.
They scan, compare, and decide.
That requires a controlled document, not a navigable site.
When Format makes sense
- you want a professional online portfolio
- you are a photographer or visual artist sharing work publicly
- you want a clean website without coding
- you want to send a link to your portfolio
When MyArtPDF is the better choice
- you are applying to galleries or residencies
- you need a structured PDF document
- you must include CV, bio, statement
- you want a clear, review-friendly portfolio
Why websites are not enough for submissions
Websites introduce friction in review:
- no fixed order of works
- navigation varies per user
- requires internet connection
- harder to archive or compare
That is why institutions still prefer PDFs.
The standard format
Most artist portfolio PDFs follow:
- cover
- statement
- biography
- CV
- selected works
This structure is expected.
Format vs MyArtPDF
- Type: portfolio website vs portfolio PDF tool
- Goal: online presence vs application document
- Structure: flexible vs fixed
- Use case: browsing vs evaluation
- Offline: no vs yes
The right approach
You do not need to choose one.
The best setup is:
- a Format website for visibility
- a MyArtPDF document for submissions
If you need a portfolio PDF
A strong portfolio PDF is:
- clear and structured
- 10–15 artworks
- fast to read
- easy to compare
A simpler workflow
MyArtPDF is a local-first macOS app designed for exactly that.
No layout complexity. Just a clean, readable portfolio.
Frequently asked questions
Is Format enough for an artist portfolio?
It is enough for an online portfolio, but not for most applications.
Do galleries accept websites?
Sometimes, but most still require a PDF portfolio.
Should I have both?
Yes. A website for visibility, a PDF for submissions.