Storyboards to Mood boards… why they both matter.

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In the creative industry, both storyboards and mood boards are widely used as tools for planning and visualizing the creative process. While they share some similarities, they are also distinct in their purpose and use. In this post, we’ll take a look at the differences between storyboards and mood boards, and when each is most useful.

First, let’s define each term. A storyboard is a series of drawings or sketches that illustrate the key moments and shots in a scene or sequence. Storyboards are used in filmmaking, animation, and advertising to plan and refine the visual aspects of a project before production begins.

On the other hand, a mood board is a visual collage or collection of images, textures, colors, and other design elements that convey a particular mood or feeling. Mood boards are used in graphic design, fashion, interior design, and other creative industries to explore and communicate different visual concepts and styles.

You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”

  ―Maya Angelou, author, poet, civil rights activist

So what are the main differences between storyboards and mood boards?

Purpose

The purpose of a storyboard is to plan and visualize the visual aspects of a scene or sequence, including camera angles, framing, and other technical details. Storyboards are used to refine the visual storytelling and ensure that the final product is as polished and effective as possible.

On the other hand, the purpose of a mood board is to explore and communicate different visual concepts and styles. Mood boards are used to establish a particular mood or feeling and to provide inspiration for the overall design of a project.

Content

The content of a storyboard is typically focused on the visual aspects of a scene or sequence, including characters, props, and backgrounds. Storyboards often include notes or annotations about camera angles, dialogue, and other important details.

In contrast, the content of a mood board is more focused on the overall design and aesthetic of a project. Mood boards can include images of anything from nature scenes to fashion photography to architecture to create a particular mood or tone.

When to Use Each

Storyboards are most useful in industries such as filmmaking and animation, where the visual storytelling is crucial to the success of the project. They are used to plan and refine the visual aspects of a project before production begins.

Mood boards, on the other hand, are useful in a variety of creative industries, including graphic design, fashion, and interior design. They are used to explore different design concepts and establish a particular mood or feeling.

Every great design begins with an even better story.”

  ― Lorinda Mamo, designer

In summary, while storyboards and mood boards share some similarities in terms of their visual nature, they are distinct in their purpose and use. Storyboards are used to plan and refine the visual storytelling of a project, while mood boards are used to explore and communicate different design concepts and establish a particular mood or feeling. Understanding the differences between these two tools can help you choose the right one for your next creative project.