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Graphic Design vocabulary · Briefs, Clients & Feedback

Moodboard

Meaning in graphic design, with examples

/ˈmuːdbɔːrd/nounCore term

In graphic design, moodboard means: A collection of images, colours, textures and type samples put together at the start of a project to show the visual direction and feeling of the design.

In Turkish: moodboard, ilham panosu, duygu panosu

How it is used

Used in the early stage of branding, campaign and packaging projects. You create, put together or present a moodboard, and the client reacts to it before real design work begins. Also written mood board.

Example sentences

  1. I've put together two moodboards: one warm and handmade, one minimal and technical.

  2. The client loved the colours on the moodboard but not the photography style.

Common collocations

  • create a moodboard
  • present a moodboard
  • moodboard direction
  • digital moodboard
  • conceptThe main idea behind a design and one early version of it shown to the client, explaining how the design answers the brief.
  • design briefA short document that explains what a design project must achieve: the goal, audience, message, deliverables, budget, deadline and any rules the designer must follow.
  • colour paletteThe limited set of colours chosen for a project or brand, usually with main colours, supporting colours and neutrals, so that all designs look consistent.
  • pitchA presentation of ideas made to win a new client or project, often in competition with other agencies or studios.

More terms: Briefs, Clients & Feedback

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