The CAPIC Portfolio Speed Review (PSR) is back. The PSR is a “speed dating” style event where participants get to sit one-on-one with art directors, creative directors, and other art buyers. This is a chance for them to get their face and their work directly in front of people who hire photographers and illustrators, to impress, network, set up further meetings, and build their client base.
About the event
And, this event is 50% off for CAPIC General Members, which represents a significant savings, so there’s never been a better time to sign up.
WHERE: Elastic Studios, 220 Victoria Dr, unit 180
WHEN: May 5, 2025. Doors at 6:30pm. Event starts at 7:00pm – 9:30pm
TICKETS: $300 for non-members, $150 for CAPIC General Members, and $25 for Social tickets (no review included, just socializing)
A CAPIC general membership is only $249/year. If someone signs up for a fully-paid one-year membership at capic.org, they can start saving with this event. Becoming a CAPIC member includes the following benefits:
Access to the Licensing and Fees Survey Results
Access to the online video library of past events
A free Applied Arts subscription
A whole series of other benefits and discounts including a $50 discount with Front Row Insurance
For more information about this offer, contact yvr_president@capic.org.
Sponsored by:
Elastic Studios: A large (or small), flexible, fun and functional photography photo video motion grip rental studio in Vancouver, BC, Canada. https://www.elasticstudios.ca
Okanagan Springs Brewery: Known for its crisp, refreshing lagers and ales, particularly its flagship 1516 lager. The brewery also produces a variety of seasonal ales and is committed to using high-quality, local ingredients, including BC-sourced malts and hops. They are also known for their dedication to sustainability and community involvement.
Door Prizes + Support:
Beau Photo: Offering CAPIC members 10% off prints at the Self-Serve station (some printing knowledge is necessary) valid until May 5th. Must mention CAPIC membership when booking time. https://www.beauphoto.com/inkjet-printing/
Door prize: Three, $100 Rental Gift Cards
PrintMaker Studio: Offering CAPIC members 15% discount on printing services until May 5th. https://www.printmaker-studio.com
Door prize: One, 1-year Membership at Gallery 881 ($125 value) https://www.gallery881.com/membership
Flashpoint Rentals: https://www.flashpointrentals.com
Door prize: Three, $100 Rental Gift Cards
FAQ
Q: Who will be the Reviewers, can you give me any specific names/agencies?
A: There may be last minute cancellations due to health or work and a specific person’s presence can’t be guaranteed, therefore no list is provided. There is, however, representation from all the major shops in town.
Q: Will I be able to choose who reviews my book on the day?
A: Each Participant is assigned a set position in the queue. Reviewers are assigned a table. A specific Reviewer may or may not be seen during the rotation. Participants can still approach Reviewers during the social portion of the event.
Q: What is the format? How does it work?
A: Reviewers (AD, ACD, CD, and Designers) sit at numbered tables. Participants (Photographers and Illustrators) are assigned a number and a color on their name tag (number = sequence, color = group). There are typically twice as many Participants as Reviewers, so Participants alternate between reviews and mingling. Groups (Green and Red) take turns during rounds. Each round changes which Reviewer a Participant sees. After a few rounds, the rhythm of the event becomes smooth and intuitive.
Q: Five minutes is not very long, why are the reviews so short?
A: The “Speed dating” format is designed to maximize the number of potential connections. Fit is usually obvious quickly. If there’s potential, a follow-up meeting can be arranged. If not, time isn’t wasted.
Q: Why did I have 3 reviews with agency A and none with agency B?
A: Large agencies may send multiple Reviewers, and relevance depends on individual portfolios. Agencies are not the focus—connections with individuals are. Efforts are made to distribute Reviewers evenly.
Q: How many reviews will I get?
A: Each Participant can expect to sit with 8 Reviewers.
Q: What if I don’t sit with a particular Reviewer that I was hoping to meet?
A: A contact list of all attendees will be shared post-event. Participants can reach out to Reviewers they didn’t meet. It’s better than a cold call and provides a common event for conversation.
Q: What should I bring?
A: A portfolio (printed or digital on a laptop/iPad). Internet can’t be relied on, so files should be stored locally. Also recommended: business cards and a notebook. Recording is discouraged due to noise levels.
Q: Can I bring leave behinds?
A: Yes. Since only about half of the Reviewers will be seen, participants can include leave behinds in a Swag Bag or distribute promos at the end.
Q: What about follow-up?
A: A post-event contact list will be provided. If a desired connection wasn’t made, participants are encouraged to reach out referencing PSR.
Q: Will there be snacks?
A: Yes. Light snacks will be provided. Beverages (beer, wine, soft drinks) will be available for purchase.
Q: I don’t have a portfolio to show, can I still attend?
A: Yes, a $25 Social ticket grants access to the space for networking and mingling. Half of the Participants will be free at any time.
Q: Will there be door prizes?
A: Yes. Exciting door prizes from local vendors will be available.
Q: Can I bring my Agent, Producer, Assistant, Studio Manager, etc.?
A: Yes, they can attend with a Social ticket.
Q: CAPIC is awesome. I want to help out with events, be a part of the board, and attend lengthy organizational meetings where the minutia is debated.
A: Volunteers are always welcome. Contact Andrew (President) or another director. CAPIC is a mission-driven group that enjoys efficient, fun meetings and getting things done.
