
Pick a template.
If you’re ready to build your own website, the best place to start is by choosing a template you like. Don’t spend too much time on this at first—you can always go back and change it later. After you’ve set up the basic framework for your site, you can spend plenty of time experimenting with different templates, layouts, and designs.
It’s helpful to decide on the goals for your website before choosing a template. What kind of work will you be including, and how do you want to showcase it online?
Website builders like Format often have different theme styles to choose from:
Horizontal Scrolling
Fullscreen Slideshow
Thumbnails
Vertical Scrolling
Slideshow
You can utilize the different template styles to highlight your work. A website that scrolls horizontally lets visitors experience your work the same way they would read a book or a magazine, rather than the more typical vertical scroll. Another feature of horizontal layouts is that you can fill up the page with one big, bold image that keeps the attention centered on your work.
If you really like the idea of showcasing one image at a time, consider a fullscreen slideshow for your website layout. If you want to build a website that’s clean, organized, and easy to navigate, a thumbnail or grid template might be the right option for you.
Again, no need to stress over this step. Simply choose a template you think will work best for your goals, and let’s move on to step two!