Pinterest Is a Black Hole. Here’s How to Actually Use It for Your Shoot
Let’s be real…
One minute you’re finding inspo, the next you’ve pinned 243 images of beige living rooms and forgot what you were even looking for. It’s a black hole, but if you know how to work it, it’s also your best friend before a shoot.
Step 1: Stop Scrolling. Start Searching.
Pinterest isn’t Netflix. You don’t just scroll and hope for magic. Use the damn search bar.
Type specific stuff: “edgy pink editorial set” > “cute studio ideas”
Add adjectives: gritty, bold, moody, playful
Steal words from fashion mags, not your brain at 2am. (Trust. I am guilty here)
Pin With Purpose
Don’t pin everything just because it’s pretty. That’s how you end up with a mood board that looks like six different people’s personalities fighting.
Only pin what matches the vibe of your brand/shoot.
If you wouldn’t actually recreate it in the studio, skip it.
Quality over quantity — 10 strong pins > 50 random ones.
Build a Mood Board, Not a Mess
Once you’ve pinned, narrow it down. This is where your shoot direction starts to actually exist.
Group shots by vibe: poses, lighting, props, styling
Delete duplicates.
Aim for 1–2 clear themes max.
These are what you are going to use on shoot day for inspo and easy flow
Translate It Into Real Life
Cool — you’ve got the board. Now what?
Pull out props you actually own (don’t go broke chasing Pinterest-perfect).
Use the pins for direction, not exact copies.
Share the board with your client so everyone’s speaking the same visual language.
