How I updated my portfolio.
Tags: nextjs, tailwindcss, sanity, webdev
Published: 2023-08-21 18:00:53

In the fast-paced world of technology and design, staying current and relevant is key. As a full stack developer, I believe in not only keeping up with the latest trends but also in pushing the boundaries of what's possible. This led me to embark on a journey of upgrading my portfolio, transforming it into a dynamic and immersive showcase of my skills and expertise.

Here's the link for my updated portfolio.
https://sahilverma.dev/

## The Starting Point

When I initially developed my portfolio, I used a stack that included Next.js, Tailwind CSS, Framer Motion, JavaScript, and Firebase. The result was a decent and functional website that reflected my abilities at the time. However, as time went on and I gained more experience, I realized that there was room for improvement.

## Embracing New Technologies

The first step in my upgrade journey was embracing new technologies that were emerging in the web development landscape. I transitioned from using JavaScript to TypeScript, which brought enhanced type safety and code quality to my projects. TypeScript's static analysis helped me catch potential bugs early and streamline the development process.

## A Leap with Next.js 13

One of the highlights of this upgrade was incorporating Next.js 13. This new version introduced advanced server-side rendering capabilities, taking my portfolio's performance to a whole new level. The lightning-fast loading times and improved user experience were immediately noticeable, reaffirming my choice to stay at the forefront of technology.

## From Firebase to Sanity

While Firebase served me well, I decided to explore new content management options. Enter Sanity, a headless CMS that revolutionized how I manage and update content on my portfolio. Its flexibility allowed me to seamlessly integrate dynamic content, and its rich text capabilities enabled me to craft detailed articles and project descriptions effortlessly.

## UI Excellence with Tailwind CSS

Tailwind CSS, a utility-first CSS framework, became my go-to for crafting stunning UI. Its responsive design system and extensive class library expedited my development process while allowing for a high degree of customization. The result? A sleek and modern user interface that captivates visitors.

## Elevating Interaction with Framer Motion

To breathe life into my portfolio, I turned to Framer Motion for animations and interactions. The subtle yet impactful animations added an element of interactivity, making the user experience more engaging and delightful. Framer Motion's ease of use and robust capabilities aligned perfectly with my vision for an immersive interface.

## How to Setup

If you're inspired to create an upgraded portfolio of your own, follow these steps to get started:

1. **Clone the Repository**: Begin by cloning the repository to your local machine using `git clone https://github.com/sahilverma-dev/sahil-verma`.
2. **Install Dependencies**: Navigate to the project directory and install the necessary dependencies with `npm install`.
3. **Customize Content**: Modify the content, images, and links to make the portfolio truly yours.
4. **Add token**: Go to the API section of your Sanity project and add a new token with editor access.   `https://www.sanity.io/manage/personal/project/YOUR_PROJECT_ID/api`
5. **Configure environment variables**: Create a new `.env` on the basis of the `.env.example`.
6. **Launch the Development Server**: Run `npm run dev` to start the development server and preview your changes.
7. **Deploy Your Portfolio**: Once you're satisfied with your modifications, deploy your portfolio to your chosen hosting platform.

## Why These Technologies?

- **TypeScript**: I chose TypeScript for its enhanced code quality, improved type safety, and streamlined development process. It helps me catch potential errors early and write more robust code.
- **Next.js 13**: The advanced server-side rendering capabilities of Next.js 13 result in lightning-fast loading times and an improved user experience.
- **Sanity**: Switching to Sanity as a headless CMS allows for seamless content management and dynamic content integration, enhancing the overall user engagement.
- **Tailwind CSS**: Tailwind CSS offers a utility-first approach that speeds up UI development while providing extensive customization options.
- **Framer Motion**: Framer Motion empowers me to create engaging animations and interactions, making the user experience more enjoyable and immersive.

## Embarking on a New Chapter

With each technology upgrade, my portfolio transformed into an evolved representation of my growth as a developer. It's a testament to my dedication to delivering exceptional user experiences, combining innovative technology with elegant design. This upgraded version not only reflects my current skills but also sets the stage for even greater achievements in the future.

As I continue to evolve as a developer, my portfolio will always be a canvas to experiment with new technologies, design approaches, and creative ideas. This journey of continuous improvement mirrors my commitment to excellence in the digital realm.

Whether you're a fellow developer, an employer, or simply someone who appreciates innovation, I invite you to explore my upgraded portfolio and witness the journey firsthand. Discover the seamless blend of technology and design that makes my work stand out in the ever-evolving landscape of web development.

Thank you for reading this and also please give me feedback about my portfolio🙏.

Stay curious, stay creative, and keep coding!

— Sahil Verma
🚀 Full Stack Developer
[Portfolio](https://sahilverma.dev/)
[GitHub](https://github.com/sahilverma-dev)