Frequently asked Questions
Everything you need to know
For Creators
How do I choose the right Mentor for my work?
Browse Mentors by their industry role (Art Director, Photographer, etc.) and view their profile to see their style. Look for someone currently working in the specific field you want to gather insight from. Remember, if you're a Photographer, a Stylist might offer an interesting point of view, too, for example - cross-discipline feedback can unlock whole new ways of thinking.
What should I include in my FolioReview request?
Beyond your work, use your public profile to provide context. On the submission, use the form to tell the Mentor who you are. If there are specific areas where you feel "stuck", be honest. You can submit either the work on your profile or private work, including work currently in progress - it's up to you.
What format will my review be in?
You will receive a recorded video review or a live 1-1 session, depending on which you'd prefer to book. This allows you to see and hear the Mentor’s thought process as they navigate your work, providing much more depth than a written critique.
How long does it take to receive my recorded review?
Turnaround times vary by Mentor, but most reviews are delivered within a few days. You will be notified via email the moment your recording is ready. When you go to book, you'll see the maximum turaround time as part of the Mentor's tier offering.
Can I ask follow-up questions?
The recorded review is designed to be a comprehensive, recorded session. If you need further depth, you can book a subsequent review to show how you’ve implemented their feedback, or book a live 1-1 session where possible. Some Mentors offer the ‘Ask a Question’ feature which enables you to send a written question (without any work attached) with a video response sent in return. Use this for shorter form insight and a more direct topic.
Will my review be private?
Yes, forever. Your review is a private conversation between you and your Mentor. We don't publish reviews anywhere.
What if I’m a total beginner?
FolioReview is for everyone. Mentors are encouraged to be "honest but kind." Just be clear in your profile that you are early in your journey so they can tailor their advice accordingly.
What if I’m unhappy with my review?
We have a 48-hour window after delivery to flag issues. If a review doesn't meet our professional standards or technical requirements, our team will step in to resolve it.
Why should I pay for a review instead of posting on social media?
Social media feedback is often performative or algorithmic. FolioReview gives you a "behind-the-studio-door" look at how your work is perceived by working professionals.
What happens if I pay for a review and the Mentor doesn't deliver it in time or at all?
If the deadline passes (as set by the Mentor), you'll receive a full, automatic refund without having to do anything further.
What is the 'Ask a Question' feature?
Sometimes you don’t need a full portfolio review - just the right question can move things forward. Mentors can enable this feature to offer more direct access, without requiring work to be submitted. Creators can send a simple message and receive a video response in return.
Can’t I just DM the Mentor on social media?
Technically, you could - but high-level Mentors often have "Request" folders filled with messages that go unseen. FolioReview creates a dedicated space where Mentors set aside specific time to focus entirely on you. Instead of a single emoji or an "empty like," you get high-quality, considered video feedback designed to actually move your career forward.
Can I share my review?
Reviews are a private, one-to-one service intended strictly for you and your Mentor. Please do not publish or share your review online without your Mentor's express permission.
What type of content can I send in to be reviewed?
Two options: pull in the work from your public FolioReview profile (no re-upload needed), or upload private work that only your mentor sees. Direct uploads of images and videos give the best quality. You can also add web links, PDFs, and YouTube or Vimeo videos. Instagram links aren't supported - please upload the file directly instead.
What happens if a Mentor doesn't join my paid 1-1 live session?
In the rare case the mentor is unable to join the live 1-1 session, you'll be automatically refunded, without needing to do anything else. We send reminders up until the call to both parties, so this is unlikely to happen.
How should I use Messages?
You can send a direct message to any Creator or Mentor that has them enabled. Messages are best for quick introductions and logistics around sessions. You can’t send work or receive a review through a message, but you can book one.
For Mentors
How long should a typical review be?
Quality over quantity. Aim for a concise, high-impact recording (usually 5–15 minutes) that follows our recommended structure: First Impression, Strengths, Gaps, and Next Steps.
Do I need to show my face on camera?
We strongly advise that you share your camera whilst recording a review. Treat it like a sit down portfolio session. However, you can record a review with just your microphone if you would prefer. If recording on a phone, only your camera will be visible to the creator.
How and when do I get paid?
Payouts are released 48 hours after you submit the review. You keep 80% of the fee, and 20% goes to the platform. You’ll get an email once the funds are on their way.
Can I re-record if I make a mistake?
Yes. You can review your recording and re-do it before clicking "Submit" to ensure your delivery is coherent and professional.
How much context should I have before I start?
Always check the Creator’s public profile first. Understanding their background and specific goals ensures your feedback is relevant and useful.
What happens if a Creator flags my review?
If a concern is raised within the 48-hour window, payment is temporarily paused while our team reviews the recording to ensure it meets our community guidelines.
Do I have to accept every review request?
No. You have full control over which requests you accept based on your expertise and availability.
How do I ensure a "good" recording?
If you share a "Single Tab," the creator won't see your bookmarks or other windows. If you share your "Full Screen," be sure to close any private notifications or unrelated apps. Be aware that if you want to show other content, such as opening links in other windows, or image references, you'll need to share your full screen for the Creator to see everything.
How do I record a review?
FolioReview provides custom, in-browser and in-app software - which means you don't have to download any portfolio files, screen record your review or hunt through emails. It's all done through the site, start to end, to make it as simple as possible.
What is the most important thing to deliver in a review?
Clarity. A Creator should finish your video knowing exactly what their unique voice is and what specific changes they need to make to reach the next level.
What happens if I get busy and don't have time?
No problem at all. If you completely miss a request, the Creator will be refunded. However, we advise checking your tiers, setting maximum availability per month or setting to the 'I'm Away' mode to pause new bookings so that Creators aren't disappointed.
How should I use the 'Ask a Question' feature?
The ‘Ask a Question’ feature lets creators send a message without submitting work, making it easy to get quick, focused responses. We recommend offering it as a low-cost, direct way to engage - a shorter, more immediate format for interaction.
How should I use Messages?
Messages are a quick-fire way to get to know a Creator. You can introduce yourself, get to know their requirements from a review and speak in a more open, less formal way. You can send a Session suggestion directly through Messages by tapping on the calendar icon on iOS and desktop - allowing the Creator to book right through the chat.
Can I turn Messages off?
Yes, you can turn Message functionality completely off if you wish.