The Power of Mood Boards

Everyone is creative – we all have a natural ability to express ourselves whether it be through art, music, writing, cooking, photography, drama, movement… the list goes on and on.

As a creative designer, I am always looking for resources to help express myself and get my artistic juices flowing. But perhaps my favorite tool that combines both organization and inspiration is – drum roll please – Mood Boards.

What are Mood Boards?

Also known as inspiration boards, mood boards are physical or digital collages that arrange images and design elements into a composition that helps communicate your ideas and vision. Mood boards can be used in a variety of design projects from brands to websites to fashion – the possibilities are endless!

A digital mood board with ocean photos and illustrations created by Reilly Moss.

Why use a Mood Board?

Conveying your ideas to others can be extremely challenging. That said, mood boards are a great visual communication resource to help express your vision, focus your ideas, and serve as a jumping-off point for any project.

How to create a Mood Board?

Mood boards are all about exploration and experimentation, so play around with different colors, textures, fonts, images, words, and formats – you name it!

There is not just one way to make a mood board. Some designers prefer to create digital boards while others choose to create physical collages.

If designing in a digital space speaks to you, there are a number of free sources available. Some of my personal favorites are Canva, Pinterest, and Adobe Express.

I am also a big advocate of physical collages, so get out your paper, scissors, glue, and tape! Any type of material will work for inspiration.

For example, I recently created a “Dream Board” to focus my goals for 2023. I found some magazines around my house (yes, they still exist) and began cutting out words and images that resonated with me. Once I gathered my elements, I arranged them on my inspiration board, added some stickers, and wrote little notes to myself (see below).

A physical collage "Dream Board" made from magazine cut-outs, colored paper, and stickers by Reilly Moss.

Keep in mind, mood boards can be created for any purpose be it personal or professional!

Mood boards are powerful and are definitely worth the extra time! Keep your goal and vision in mind when creating and just go for it.

Key Point: Just remember that creating mood boards is a creative process – there is no wrong or right way. Experiment to find a style and aesthetic that works for you. Enjoy the process!

Have you created a mood board? We want to know in the comments.

Thanks for reading!