In a world flooded with app recommendations and endless software roundups, this is a real list of what I actually use as a creative. Whether I’m designing, planning content, or managing my mental bandwidth—these are the tools I return to daily. Nothing sponsored. Just what works.
The Creative Stack I Actually Rely On
Creativity is equal parts inspiration and execution. These tools help me bridge both. They allow for flexibility, give structure to the chaos, and most importantly—support both my output and my well-being.
Here’s what’s consistently in rotation:
1. Adobe Lightroom
For photo editing and visual consistency
Lightroom is my go-to for editing photos—whether it's content for Moody Studios, concert photography, or product shots. I love how intuitive the mobile version is, and the ability to create custom presets keeps my visual identity cohesive across platforms.
Use it for: Photo editing, aesthetic control, content batches
Why it works: Clean UI, non-destructive editing, fast sync across devices
2. Canva
For fast, clean design—especially under pressure
Canva isn’t just for beginners. I use it for moodboards, pitch decks, social templates, and branded content when I need to move quickly. With brand kits, pre-saved fonts, and drag-and-drop elements, it helps me stay polished without the pressure.
Use it for: Instagram carousels, presentations, merch mockups
Why it works: Low lift, high polish—perfect for tight timelines
3. Figma
For collaborative design and UI/UX projects
Figma is where I wireframe, prototype, and collaborate—especially for client work, brand identity, or digital experiences. It’s clean, powerful, and real-time, which makes feedback loops way less chaotic.
Use it for: UX/UI design, brand visuals, digital mockups
Why it works: Seamless collaboration, browser-based access, live editing
4. Adobe Photoshop
For the details that matter
While Canva and Figma get me through most day-to-day work, Photoshop is still the heavyweight for detailed image manipulation, advanced retouching, and layered visuals. It’s not an everyday tool, but when I need precision—I open Photoshop.
Use it for: Advanced editing, layered design, digital composites
Why it works: Full creative control and industry-standard results
5. Adobe Illustrator
For sharp, scalable design work
Illustrator is my choice when I’m working with logos, vector graphics, or anything that needs to scale without losing clarity. It’s also perfect for creating icons, merch graphics, and layout-focused pieces that require exactness.
Use it for: Logo design, vector artwork, merchandise graphics
Why it works: Crisp vector output, precise controls, and ideal for branding work
6. ClickUp
For task management and creative project planning
ClickUp is where I keep my business brain organized. It helps me manage client projects, content calendars, and personal goals all in one space. I love that I can customize views (boards, lists, calendar) depending on the season I’m in.
Use it for: Project workflows, content planning, timelines
Why it works: Flexible structure that fits creative and business needs
7. Notion
For writing, mapping, and mental clarity
Notion is where I go to think. From moodboards and strategy docs to blog drafts and brand outlines, this tool helps me connect ideas and build systems that feel personal. It’s like a creative journal and business dashboard in one.
Use it for: Writing, idea tracking, brand systems
Why it works: Customizable, calming, and built for non-linear thinking
Final Word
I’m not interested in using tools just because they’re trending. I care about what makes my process smoother, my projects clearer, and my creativity more sustainable. These apps help me do all three—without overwhelming me.
The goal isn’t to use every tool. It’s to find the ones that support both your work and your well-being.
What’s in your current creative toolkit?
Share your favorite apps with @MoodyStudiosCo—we’re always looking to discover tools that actually work.
