The phrase "to start a portfolio" means to begin assembling and organizing a collection or group of items, such as artwork, photographs, writings, or other valuable possessions. The purpose of creating a portfolio is typically to showcase one's best work, skills, experiences, or achievements in order to demonstrate their abilities, qualifications, or potential to others. A portfolio can be used for various purposes such as job applications, college admissions, business proposals, and networking opportunities. The items included in a portfolio are carefully selected and arranged to present a cohesive and compelling narrative about the individual showcasing their work.