Prepare for LightBox Expo with BRIC
October 23-25, 2026 in Pasadena, CA
BRIC x LBX Event Calendar (TBD)
Preparing for a Portfolio Review?
We’ve collected some helpful advice from the pros & studios:
Looking to make new connections at the Expo?
Consider these networking tips leading up to the event:
Tips for making the most of your experience from LightBox Expo:
✈️ Book your travel/lodging in advance
Prepare your trip/travels in advance if possible. This allows you to get everything in order, book cheaper flights, and have plenty of options available for lodging. It will also help you avoid any unnecessary last-minute issues/stress, so you can focus fully on the Expo.
💼 Make your portfolio easy to access for in-person portfolio reviews
If you are coming for portfolio reviews and aren't bringing a physical portfolio, please make sure to download your images onto whatever device you're bringing (phone, tablet, laptop, etc). There is not always a reliable WiFi connection and the last thing you want is to take up some of your review time trying to actually download your portfolio.
🗓️ Make a schedule, but stay flexible
Prioritize the events you want to attend the most and build a schedule around those priorities. And if things don't go as planned or if there's any space left in your schedule, make sure to be flexible and try new things! We often learn a lot when we least expect it.
🧑🎨 Make a game plan for merch
Get your merch on day one (if you can). If you don't want to miss out on merch from any of your favorite artists, make sure to get there first! Same goes with the LBX show store. Otherwise, you might risk missing out on something very cool!
🗣️ Don’t hesitate to strike up conversation
Don't be afraid to socialize and network with fellow attendees/artists (you got this!). Most artists (even the pros) are just as shy as you are! Be patient, polite and genuine, but don't hesitate to spark up a conversation. After all, meeting other artists is what this event is all about!
On the day, make sure to bring…
🧃 drinks
🍎 snacks
🖌️ art supplies (don't overdo it! 😉)
📝 a way to make notes (notepad + pen, phone, etc.)
🔋 an extra battery charger and/or power-bank for your phone
🔌 a universal power plug travel converter (for international visitors)
📒 your portfolio (printed or digital)
🪪 plenty of business cards (for networking!)
🎒 a backpack to hold it all
👟 comfy shoes
👕 comfy, yet presentable clothes