Building your Nail Portfolio as a Nail Artist

 If you're just starting out or you're already a few years in, having a strong digital presence is key to building trust, showing off your nail skills, and getting the kind of clients you actually want to work with.  Creating an nail portfolio isn't just about posting cute nails. It's about making it easy for people to see your work, understand your style, and feel confident booking with you. So if you're wondering where to start I'v got you covered. I'm going to break down from setting up your portfolio to attracting your ideal clients.

Before uploading a single photo, take a step back and ask yourself what you want to be known for.  This is your vision.  Are you more into clean, minimalist nail art?  Obsessed with Japanese gel?  All about the the extra 3D looks?  When you have a niche or a style direction people know what exactly what to expect when they come to you.  That clarity makes it easier for the right clients to find you and book confidently.  Having a clear niche also helps with how you write about yourself on your portfolio or social media pages.  You can directly speak to your people— whether it’s professionals who want subtle, polished looks or glam lovers who want bold statement nails.  This is your space to show them exactly what you’re about. 

Once you’ve got your vision down, the next step is deciding where you want to host your portfolio. A lot of nail techs start with Instagram, and honestly, it’s a great choice. It’s visual, easy to update, and it’s where most people hang out when they’re looking for nail inspo. But don’t be afraid to branch out. If you’re ready for something a little more polished or want to offer bookings, press-ons, or classes, setting up a simple website with a gallery is a game-changer.

You can also use platforms like Pinterest to get discovered by people who are browsing for nail design ideas. It’s more passive, but can lead to long-term exposure.

Include clear, high-quality shots that really reflect your vibe. Choose a mix of angles that help people see your work in detail—hand poses, close-ups, shots with clean backgrounds. And make sure your photos feel like the kind of vibe your clients are looking for. If you’re into natural nails, the lighting should be soft and minimal. If you’re doing dramatic sets, go for contrast and punch.

At the end of the day, your portfolio should reflect who you are as a nail artist. It doesn’t have to be perfect or overly curated—it just needs to be clear, consistent, and aligned with your nail goals. This is your digital first impression, and it can do a lot of the heavy lifting in bringing in new clients who actually vibe with your style.

If you found this helpful, make sure to subscribe to the newsletter. I share a lot of behind-the-scenes biz tips, updates, and things I don’t always post on the blog. Until next time, keep showing up and showing off your work—you’ve got this.