How to make your portfolio of a freelance layout designer?

Question

Freelance

Good afternoon.
I'm probably not the first to ask these questions, but still... I'm
a beginner in layout, I haven't made any orders yet (I only made layout for myself for practice). After reading about such situations, I identified three strategies for such launches (and filling my portfolio, respectively): 1) Immediately look for paid orders; 2) Take orders for free for reviews; 3) Fill the portfolio with their work, for example, based on PSD layouts.
From all of the above, the question is: which option (or options) do you think is better, and if so, why?
And, separately, if you post examples of your layout based on "free" PSD layouts in your portfolio, is this a normal practice (in the sense that this is legal and acceptable from a professional point of view)?
Thanks in advance for your replies.

Answer 1

right
stupid
why not if you know how

Answer 2

“Of the above, the question is: which option (or options) do you think is better, if possible, why?”
Here at the toaster they constantly complain that they cannot even get one order. And if they did, then the customer is some kind of strange.
Are you figuring out what to do and what not to do?
If you have reached the level where you can refuse some orders in favor of others, then it's time for you to answer questions, not ask them.
Everything else - look at the profiles of successful freelancers. You should not just copy them - copy ideas, catch thoughts.

Answer 3

The best thing about you is your work.
And, of course, it’s cooler if these works are visited resources with something complex and interesting.
But, even if there are no such works, then you can show your professionalism with some unusual and interesting things. For example, look at what the pros are posting on codrops and do something similar. Send it there, place it in your portfolio.
And about theft - it can work for someone. But as for me, you risk ruining your reputation before you start working. And given that you are at the very beginning of the journey, then most likely in the future you will have to work with someone whose work you will steal. Of course, we are talking about some cool scripts, complex solutions. And if you are going to steal someone's beautifully designed responsive 12-column grid instead of making it yourself, then maybe you don't belong in this profession?

Answer 4

There are 4 more options. Become an apprentice with an experienced layout designer. There you will earn money and experience will not raise sickly.