Can a Freelancer Use Client Work in a Portfolio?

For many freelancers, previous work is the main way to win the next client.

But completing a project does not automatically mean you can publish it in your portfolio.

The answer may depend on:

• intellectual-property terms;
• confidentiality;
• publicity clauses;
• client policies;
• the nature of the work.

The useful question is:

Do I have permission to show this work publicly after the project ends?

Ownership does not answer everything

You might retain copyright but still be bound by confidentiality.

Or the client may own the final work but expressly allow you to display it for self-promotion.

Portfolio rights are therefore worth checking separately.

Look for publicity clauses

Contracts may say:

The Contractor may not use the Client's name, trademarks or Deliverables in publicity without prior written consent.

That can prevent you from:

• naming the client;
• displaying screenshots;
• using the logo;
• publishing a case study.

Confidentiality can block portfolio use

Even without an explicit publicity clause, confidential information may appear in the work.

For example:

• unreleased products;
• internal dashboards;
• customer data;
• commercial strategy.

See Freelance Confidentiality Clauses: What Should You Look Out For?.

Ask about timing

A client may be happy for you to show the work after:

• public launch;
• a product announcement;
• a defined embargo period.

The restriction may not need to last forever.

Can you anonymise the work?

Sometimes the client may allow:

• anonymised screenshots;
• redacted case studies;
• descriptions without naming the company.

That can preserve portfolio value while protecting sensitive information.

Questions to ask before signing

Check:

• Can you name the client?
• Can you use its logo?
• Can you show the final deliverable?
• Is written consent required?
• Does confidentiality override portfolio permission?
• Is there an embargo period?
• Can you use anonymised examples?

For broader context, see Freelance IP Ownership Clauses: What Should You Look Out For?.

PactRivet can highlight IP, confidentiality and publicity language that may affect whether your completed work can appear in your portfolio.

Related guides

• Freelance IP Ownership Clauses: What Should You Look Out For?
• Freelance Confidentiality Clauses: What Should You Look Out For?

PactRivet provides general information and questions to consider. It is not legal advice.