moodboard
A collage of images, colors, textures and words that communicates the intended look, feel and tone of a project.
Definition
A moodboard is a visual tool used early in creative work to align people on style before detailed design starts. It gathers references such as photographs, color swatches, typography samples and phrases that suggest atmosphere. It helps clients react to a direction without needing finished designs. A moodboard is not a design itself, and its images should be treated as inspiration, with care taken about usage rights of any source material. Ask the agency to explain what each image is meant to say, which turns a pretty collage into a useful decision tool.
In a sentence
The moodboard showed muted earth tones and handwritten lettering.
The client approved the moodboard before design started.
