I've been freelancing full-time as a digital illustrator for four years and the question I get most is about building a portfolio. Here's what actually worked for me, not what the YouTube tutorials tell you.

Don't try to show range at first. Pick one genre you want to work in and make ten strong pieces in that niche. A portfolio that screams 'I can do everything' reads as 'I haven't figured out what I'm good at yet.' The clients who matter are hiring for a specific look.

Update your portfolio regularly and take things down when they stop representing your current level. I cringe at pieces I had up a year ago. That discomfort means you've grown — act on it.

Put your contact and pricing info somewhere findable on your portfolio site. I've heard from clients who wanted to hire me but couldn't figure out how, which is embarrassing to think about.